Britebound published a report with Education Strategy Group titled Extending the Runway: A National Analysis of Middle School Career Exploration

Britebound™ (formerly American Student Assistance®) helps young people navigate one of the most important questions they’ll ever face: What comes next? We inspire learners to explore their passions, experiment with potential careers, and confidently chart a path toward their future, whether or not that path includes a traditional college degree. At the center of our work is a simple but powerful message we share with every student we reach: Find your why. Find your way. We believe every young person deserves the opportunity to discover the intersection between what they love, what they’re good at, what the world needs, and what they can be paid for. Yet too many students—especially those facing systemic barriers—lack access to the tools, experiences, and guidance needed to make informed decisions about their future. That’s where Britebound comes in. Through free digital tools, philanthropy, research, impact investing, and advocacy, we work alongside students, educators, families, employers, mission-aligned nonprofits and businesses, and community partners to expand access to career readiness resources and economic opportunity. Our approach bridges education and workforce systems, helping students move from curiosity to clarity, and from possibility to purpose. By aligning passion with preparation and opportunity, we aim to ensure that every young person is equipped not just to choose a path, but to build a meaningful and sustainable future.