Junior Year Journey

To assist in your future planning, you should begin to consider the following:

Know Yourself
Interests, abilities, achievements, values, and aspirations are important factors to be considered in setting your goals. Explore these areas including computer based surveys and the internet, paper and pencil tests, and conversations with friends, family, and your school counselor.

Career Options
Exploring career options can help in setting goals and possibly in selecting courses in high school. Use print materials, computer generated information, job shadowing and use of Community School to assist you in more clearly identifying your direction.

High School Program
High school courses should be selected based on graduation requirements, exploration and development of personal interests, meeting college or other post-secondary school options, and preparing to enter the job market after graduation. You should consult with your counselor on a yearly basis to determine if you are meeting your goals.

Extracurricular Activities
Use your “free time” to develop hobbies or other interests. Get involved in school, community and church activities. In particular, seek out ways that you can provide service to your community and to others in need of your skills and talents. Broaden your interests through reading, travel and contact with knowledgeable people. Above all, remember that the quality and not the quantity of these activities is most important to colleges reviewing your application.

College/Vocational Selection
Investigate the institutions or training programs that offer the types of programs you desire. Consult with print and computerized resource materials and with people who have attended these institutions. Learn about the projected demands in your selected vocational field. Attend information programs conducted by admissions representatives from all types of schools in addition to attending the representative visits in the Career Center.

Visit Schools
Make an appointment (usually done online through the college's website) for a campus tour/information session. Spend time visiting classes, residence halls, cafeterias, the library, and special facilities. Speak with students to find out what life is like both on weekends and weekdays.  Grab a school newspaper, if available!

Admission Requirements
Talk with your counselor and consult written materials to learn about the requirements of various schools and the degree of competition in gaining admission. Know the application procedures and deadlines.

Finances
Parents and students should become knowledgeable about financing further education. Consideration should be given to federal, state and local sources of financial assistance. Be sure the sources you use are current and up-to-date. Investigate your eligibility for merit and/or need-based financial aid. Attend the December Financial Aid Night to learn more about financial aid and the required application procedures.

Prepare Early
Get references, transcripts, applications, and other materials early in the process. Applications for admission should be completed well before deadlines. Scholarship applications and related material should also be completed prior to deadlines.