In this episode of the Getting Smart Podcast, host Victoria Andrews sits down with student leaders from Northeast Academy for Aerospace and Advanced Technology (NEAT) to explore what happens when a Portrait of a Graduate becomes more than a poster on the wall. Kaylyn Rosado, Connor Mawhiney, and Anna Montero share how student voice shaped their school's learning model—from a student ambassador program and community interviews to classroom practices that build collaboration, empathy, and confidence. The conversation also highlights NEAT's flexible STEM-focused pathways (including aviation, biotech, robotics, coding, and advanced manufacturing), dual enrollment opportunities, and a clear message for school designers everywhere: involve students early, often, and authentically—because agency changes everything.

Outline

(00:00) Introduction & Student Introductions
(04:06) Student Ambassadors & Community Engagement
(09:54) Pathways & Career Exploration
(16:55) Personal Growth & Student Development
(20:44) Advice for School Leaders

Links

What Happens When Students Bring a Portrait of a Graduate to Life? | NEAAAT Students