Mentor Program Exposes Students....What kind of program is this?

This is actually the kind of program that makes sense.  Real world, real life, useful study.  The January 19 edition of Education Week has a front page story about a mentor program that "Exposes students to different types of careers and how to get there...".  The program invites a mentor in a field, in this case architecture, construction, and engineering, to introduce interested students to what they do.  It goes beyond a visit to the classroom to on site field trips.  Currently the program is an after school elective type of program.  I find this unfortunate as it would be beneficial to any student interested and not all students are free to take time after school.  Then again, a student who would dedicate time for such a program shows great drive.  I do understand that a well rounded education is useful to students but if students could learn more about potential careers and delve into the subject I believe their interest in school would rise.  I think if a student had an opportunity to become more involved in interests that could lead to a career, or even if students had the chance to be introduced to several different careers through first hand experience we would see more focused, dedicated students.  It may have even worked on such as me if it had been available.