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So You Want To Be...

Dreams -- We all have great plans for the future but sometimes we do not find the information we need to prepare us for the future. I hope the following information assists you with your future. The following information is in no way complete. I t is just to help you think in a new light about why you are in school and how to make the most of these first 12 years. If you take the time and ask the adults in your life this one question "What would you do differently if you could" The odds are they will say, " I would have paid more attention in school." So here is your chance not to make those mistakes.

The following information is designed for you to think about what is it you would really enjoy waking up each morning and enjoy going to work.

Step One: Ask yourself what you would enjoy doing? You might change your mind down the road but at least you started down the road towards a solid future and every subject you take will only increase your awareness of who you are and where you are going. While you are thinking about a career One suggestion would be to think beyond the simple question what career can a history major do? or an English Major etc.

Instead think in a new light....

Ask yourself:

What skills you are good at? examples: computers, writing, people

What you like to do? example: work on cars, dance, sew, draw, read, math, write, talk, babysitter

What talents do I have? examples: singing, memory recall, debate, speech, stage

This way when you are thinking .... searching on the internet for ideas..... you are not limiting yourself in job careers. There is a whole world of opportunities out there so think beyond the linear answers.

Step Two: Research the variety of careers and discover which one you would really enjoy doing. (Below are some suggestions and links to help get you started.)

Step Three: Select the career that is the most appealing to you and read more about it.

Once you are sure this might be the one for you...

Step Four: Meet with your guidance counselor and ask him/her how to develop:

a. (If you are in about to go to middle school) have your mom and you set up a meeting with the middle school guidance counselor and make sure he/she knows you and what you would like to accomplish while you are in middle school. Yes you will still have fun in middle school but you must also realize the academic track you are placed in at least in some schools will determine your high school track. So find out what you need to do to be placed in the right math, english, and history classes so that you are placed in the correct track for high school.

b.( If Your middle school) classes to prepare you for the high level thigh School College track.

c. (If are already in 8th grade) ask your guidance counselor if there are any summer classes you can take to transfer to high school to ensure you are placed on the right track for college.

d. (If you are in high school) ask our guidance counselor to look at what you have accomplished already and what you need do to make your college path a reality.

Some simple steps you can do right this minute on your own:

1. Meet with your guidance counselor and share with them possible jobs you would be interested in and let there expertise guide you with the right courses to take in middle school and high school.Note: Even if you think you will not be taken seriously just try. You will be surprised how the door will open for you. (Example Stories)

2. Find out what clubs and community projects you can join/start to place on your college resume.

3. Think about where you would like to live during your college years. That will help with the selection of schools in the future.

4. Begin now to find out what scholarship money is out there for you to begin working towards. (story)

5. Enjoy working towards your dreams.

College Board.com - Plan your future- check out- Think Future- They highlight various careers!