This paper presents some results of research conducted with young high school students in the state of Pará (Brazil). By using the methodology of focus groups, this study discusses school reality from the perspective of youth. It analyzes the relationship they established between their life projects and how school contributes to achieve them. The investigation revealed a great diversity of youth projects. It highlighted both the strategies developed according to social contexts and age and a given at itude towards the future, which is an expression of a socio-cultural landscape marked by uncertainties. These youngsters place many expectations in school, but they show how limited it is to meet their demands.
Youth; Life projects; High school