You’re probably in your final years of school and the real world is about to you. Time is swiftly passing by. Have you already decided what you are going to do upon completion of high school? You do realize that time is swiftly approaching right? Well, no worries. I’m here to help and guide you on the path to Life after High school. One of the mains things you must figure out is yourself. Are you great in Academics, Technical studies, Sports or Performing arts? Are you a college student, technical student or just want to get a job and be content for the rest of your life? It is important to know yourself and what you are capable of doing to thrive in whatever area you choose. You must find your passion. What are the things you like doing most? Do you find yourself talking a lot? Maybe you should look into News Broadcasting! Do you enjoy singing, acting and dancing? Maybe you should look into the Arts! Do you find planes and flying fascinating? Becoming a Pilot may be the best choice for you. Find YOU and Know YOU! Whatever your passion is, you must pinpoint it because it will be important when deciding your career goals. Additionally, broaden your horizon. There are more options in life than the usual doctor, lawyer or teacher. However, if those are you passion, by all means go for it! I just want you to think outside the box! Have you ever heard of an actuary, chartered financial analysts or podiatrist?
If you plan to attend college, have you begun researching various colleges? In your quest in finding the perfect college, there are some key points you must take into consideration:
- How much is the tuition?
Is it affordable for you and your parents? Will be hard to find money to pay the tuition? Make sure the college you choose is in the price range of what you are able to bear. It is not wise to go for the most extravagant college and you are unable to really enjoy it because the tuition is burdensome.
- Does it have the course you wish to study?
Not all colleges offer the same thing. Look closely in the degree options and find what you’re looking for. If they do not have exactly have what you’re looking for then find the alternative and if that is unsuccessful, find another college which may have the course you wish to study. There are thousands of colleges out there to explore. Remain open-minded to other options.
- What are the requirements to be accepted?
Many colleges have a standard which they go by when seeking the right person to accept. It is up to you to know what is required and how best you can work towards attaining the desideratum of the college. Things to look out for are: GPA requirements? Minimum SAT score needed? Written Essay?
- What are the scholarship availabilities?
You always want to inspect the scholarship opportunities available by colleges. This will allow you to have ample time in preparing yourself to meet all the prerequisites. These scholarships will help to defray the cost of your tuition.
- What is the history of the college?
How long has the college been in existence? What is the main goal of the college? How was the college beneficial to alumni’s? What are some success stories of the college? Is the college credible or notable nationally or internationally?
College may not be everybody so for those who may not wish to attend college, have you looked into any technical schools? I know some persons may not be academically inclined but are very skillful with hands-on learning. You do not have to feel any less of yourself because you do not attend college. Enroll yourself in a technical school and acquire a trade. Persons with a trade in any area are always bound to be employed.
One last IMPORTANT point:
Whatever your future plans may be, always have a back-up plan. Life has a way of messing up our plans and desires sometimes but having a “Plan B” can assist in overcoming those moments. In your quest for the perfect college, I would advise you to have a Top 3 list in the event one does not work out; you have other options to go after. If you fail to plan, you plan to fail and planning does not consist of only one option. Always have an alternative. If you plan to attend college a year or two later, join and apply to your local college. Your local college can be your back-up plan in case you may not attend your dream college. I just want to encourage you to act now and get prepared.
I am so excited about your future! I know God has great plans for your life! Always remember, the race is not for the swift but for the one who endures to the end.
Raphael R. Roker 