About Us
Creating intentional futures, one student at a time.
What do you want to do when you grow up?
Young kids are asked, middle school students are asked, high school students are asked, adults even ask themselves. While young kids love to give answers like "be a doctor" or "be a fireman" most of them are simply choosing professions they have seen on television or know from observing a friend or family member. Unfortunately, that tends to stay true all the way through high school and beyond. *30% of students end up working for the same employer as one of their parents. **66% of students report being influenced by parents when picking a future career.
We believe there is a better way!
Helping students explore their talents, skills and gifts as they move through middle school and high school, paired with career path education and internship opportunities can not only better equip graduates to make career choices, but it can also save money and time. The average cost of four years of college at an in-state university has risen to $120,000. Private universities can be double or triple that cost. The days of going to college for the social experience or to pick a generic major are over. Intentions and goals should ideally be defined early on to maximize that $120,000+ investment. With guidance counselors in our high schools overwhelmed by volume of students and high school course selection, we provide an alternative solution for future-focused families.
Exploration is the unlock.
"Blessed are the curious for they shall have adventures." – Lovelle Drachman
Is college necessary? Is trade school a better option? What high school classes do I need to get into the college of my dreams? What are the best college programs for what I am interested in? Are there more affordable college alternatives? I love science, what kind of jobs could I do? We will guide you through these questions (and many more), exploring all of your options, eventually building out an individualized plan to achieve your goals.
About Me
After a successful 24-year career in banking, Wendy Peterson made the decision to leave the corporate world and channel her expertise, passion, and purpose into supporting the next generation. Throughout her career, she discovered that what fulfilled her most was helping people recognize their strengths and navigate meaningful paths forward. That realization ultimately inspired her to launch a business dedicated to guiding students as they explore who they are—and who they can become.
Wendy now works one-on-one with students to uncover their unique skills, talents, interests, and values. Using a holistic, strengths-based approach, she helps them identify potential career options and build individualized pathways that support long-term success. Whether students are preparing for college, trade programs, or direct-entry careers, Wendy equips them with clarity, confidence, and actionable plans for the future.
Driven by a deep belief that every student deserves to discover their potential, Wendy combines her strategic thinking, coaching abilities, and real-world experience to empower young people to make informed, inspired decisions about their lives. Her work is rooted in encouragement, practical insight, and a commitment to helping each student envision—and achieve—a future that fits them.
Start early, end happy.
According to careervision.org, only 45% of Americans are satisfied with their current jobs with 20% of workers feeling truly passionate about their career. Working with Next Step will start your student on a path to lifelong happiness, building a future they love.
We accept students 7th-12th grade into our program.