Maybe some of you starting high school know exactly what you
what to do after graduation. But I am sure most of you will change your
mind many many times. Make sure you keep all options available to you
whether the future is college, military, apprenticeship, or heading
right off to work.
If you plan to go off to college make sure you are working
with your counselor and choosing the appropriate classes to get you into the
college of your choice. You can start researching colleges now by going
to their website and looking at the list of either required or recommended
courses.
If you plan to pursue career training or an apprenticeship….
What classes in high school can help you prepare? For example,
let’s say you want to take up welding. Maybe you help your Dad at home or it’s
the family business. Check out your high school’s course listings for any
industrial technology classes you can take while in high school. One, you
will receive free hands on training, two you will get a deeper understanding of
the career and if this is a good fit for you and three you will be meeting one
of your graduation requirements.
If you plan to enter the workforce after right high school,
think about what classes will help with gaining immediate employment.
Again work with your counselor and consult your high school’s course guide. If
you’re interested in becoming a CNA, perhaps your high schools can work with
the local college to enroll you in a Certified Nurse Aid course for work in a
skilled nursing facility. Or maybe you want to open a daycare after
graduation. Does your high school offer child development courses or even
certification courses to allow you to open a preschool/daycare business?
As you go through the next four years you will change your
mind about your future career many times and that’s okay, just prepare
for all options now. Check out the ACT profile for a free career interest
assessment. http://www.actprofile.org/login.
Jessica - ICAN Ankeny Center
