Whether you are heading back to high school or college,
August brings about an exciting opportunity for a fresh start and new
experiences.
As you start planning for your new academic year it’s good
to set goals for the year – similar to a New Year’s Resolution. These goals can
focus on academics, social, or personal – anything that helps you get closer to
your future.
Schedule
An important aspect of the new school year is ensuring that
the courses you are taking are still in line with your ultimate goals.
If you’re in high school you want to make sure your classes
following your four-year plan and are preparing you for your next steps –
either college admission preparation and requirements or suited to the career
field that interests you.
If you’re in college you want to make sure your classes are
meeting your program or major requirements for graduation.
Talk with your school counselor or academic advisor to make
sure you’re on track or to make adjustments.
Job Shadows & Internships
Now is a great time to make some plans for a job shadow or
internship. This will help guide you through your career preparation and
exploration, and provide you with great experiences. In high school these
experiences can tell you if a career is a good fit. In college these
experiences can lead to networking connections and potential job offers, not to
mention the hands-on experience you gain before graduation.
Fun
All work and no play is never a good idea. Make sure you are
getting involved in school life. In high school extracurricular activities will
boost your resume for scholarships and admissions and provide you with
experiences that enhance your social skills. In college you need some time
outside the classroom to decompress and try new things. Campus activities are
the best way to explore new interests and try new things. Look into campus
clubs, intramurals, and events and join in the fun.
All these things lead to a well-rounded year and a step
closer to your future. Reflect and pick goals for both your academic and social
life and welcome this new year with open arms.
Brittania - ICAN Hiawatha Center
