Start Planning for Your Future Now! 1) Think about what you want to do after high school: a. Career ____________________________ b. Interests __________________________
2) Go to U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook www.bls.gov/oco/ and check out the job you are interested in. Learn about: a. training and education needed b. earnings c. expected job prospects d. what workers do on the job e. working conditions
3) Where will you gain the skills you need? a. College b. Trade School c. Apprenticeship d. Armed Forces e. Other __________________________
4) Start contacting the college, trade school, local union, or military NOW! a. Visit the colleges that most interest you. b. Ask about financial aid, admission requirements and deadlines.
5) APPLY! APPLY! APPLY! a. Prepare your applications carefully. Follow the instructions, and PAY CLOSE ATTENTION TO DEADLINES! b. The earlier you apply the better your chances of being accepted. c. Some schools have application fee waivers available; check out their websites for details or ask Mrs. Coffer. d. Priority deadline for many colleges is November 1st! Some colleges require an application be submitted by the priority deadline in order for you to qualify for institutional scholarships. e. Secure a spot with the military. Many branches of the armed forces have started a waiting list. f. Be sure to ask your counselor and teachers at least two weeks before your application deadlines to submit the necessary documents to colleges (your transcript, letters of recommendation, etc.). g. Be sure to keep copies of everything you send, so you can refer to or re-send them later if you have to. |