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What are things to start working towards being in 9th grade?
I am currently in 9th grade and am wondering what types of programs or things that I can do currently. To build up my portfolio for college. To be more specific I want to go to school for early childhood education or to become a social worker. Some schools that I have heard to be good for those fields are UC Berkeley, UC Irvine, La Verne, etc. These are some of the schools that I am trying to work towards. I am already in a scholarship program that is helping me build it up through their help but we only meet around once a month and I know that I can be doing much more than I am currently.
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5 answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hi, Kathy !
You seem to be having a fabulous education that is preparing you for your career interest. That's wonderful ! By the way, my Aunt went to UC Berkeley for Education and had a very long successful career as an elementary school teacher in San Francisco, so I would say that UC Berkeley is one of the top schools to consider.
Right now would be the best time to obtain volunteer work and join extracurriculars. You may want to consider joining the Debate Team to hone your presentational and public speaking skills. Consider running for a class office in 10th grade to gain leadership experience. Also think about being a Tutor for elementary school children to explore your role as a teacher while gaining hands on experience. Explore doing volunteer work at day care centers, Pre-K and even any programs through recreation and parks that are geared for children.
Consider learning a foreign language as well as American Sign Language because this could be a huge bonus for both teaching as well as social work.
As a Social Worker, you don't specifically work only with children, however. Teaching and Social Work are completely different. For social work, the path is filled with a lot of psychology and it would be expected that, as a social worker, you do clinical therapy for patients of every age. This may be something for you to consider. You can always volunteer working with children at social service organizations that are specifically for children. If I had to choose between the two, I would say that Education is a more satisfying environment, has tangible results and especially if you consider teaching high school and college later on. There are also a variety of types of jobs in education such a being a Principal, Superintendent of Schools or being a council member on a school district's Board. You're learning about education right now, so explore what it's like to be a Licensed Social Worker and see which one you prefer. From long time life experience heavily being around educators and Social Workers, I would choose the Education Degree. That's just my opinion, though. You need to make your own decision after being well informed.
The most import advice I could give you is to pace yourself, take it a step at a time, don't overload yourself or rush your education no matter which path you choose. I hope this is helpful and I wish you the very best !
You seem to be having a fabulous education that is preparing you for your career interest. That's wonderful ! By the way, my Aunt went to UC Berkeley for Education and had a very long successful career as an elementary school teacher in San Francisco, so I would say that UC Berkeley is one of the top schools to consider.
Right now would be the best time to obtain volunteer work and join extracurriculars. You may want to consider joining the Debate Team to hone your presentational and public speaking skills. Consider running for a class office in 10th grade to gain leadership experience. Also think about being a Tutor for elementary school children to explore your role as a teacher while gaining hands on experience. Explore doing volunteer work at day care centers, Pre-K and even any programs through recreation and parks that are geared for children.
Consider learning a foreign language as well as American Sign Language because this could be a huge bonus for both teaching as well as social work.
As a Social Worker, you don't specifically work only with children, however. Teaching and Social Work are completely different. For social work, the path is filled with a lot of psychology and it would be expected that, as a social worker, you do clinical therapy for patients of every age. This may be something for you to consider. You can always volunteer working with children at social service organizations that are specifically for children. If I had to choose between the two, I would say that Education is a more satisfying environment, has tangible results and especially if you consider teaching high school and college later on. There are also a variety of types of jobs in education such a being a Principal, Superintendent of Schools or being a council member on a school district's Board. You're learning about education right now, so explore what it's like to be a Licensed Social Worker and see which one you prefer. From long time life experience heavily being around educators and Social Workers, I would choose the Education Degree. That's just my opinion, though. You need to make your own decision after being well informed.
The most import advice I could give you is to pace yourself, take it a step at a time, don't overload yourself or rush your education no matter which path you choose. I hope this is helpful and I wish you the very best !
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 => Optimization Of Human Performance: jim.frangos@gmail
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Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
An Extremely Good Day To You, Kathy!
Things to Start Working Towards Being in 9th Grade for Early Childhood Education or Social Work
1. Academic Performance and Course Selection To build a strong foundation for college, focus on maintaining a high GPA. Take challenging courses that align with your interests in early childhood education or social work. Consider enrolling in Advanced Placement (AP) or honors classes if available, particularly in subjects like psychology, sociology, and child development. These courses will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to academic excellence.
2. Extracurricular Activities Engage in extracurricular activities that relate to your career interests. Look for clubs or organizations focused on community service, education, or child advocacy. Volunteering at local schools, daycare centers, or community organizations can provide hands-on experience working with children and families. This involvement will help you develop relevant skills and show colleges your dedication to the field.
3. Volunteer Work and Internships Seek out volunteer opportunities that allow you to work directly with children or families. This could include tutoring programs, mentoring initiatives, or volunteering at local non-profits that support youth services. Additionally, consider internships during the summer months; these experiences can provide valuable insights into the daily responsibilities of professionals in early childhood education and social work.
4. Networking and Mentorship Connect with professionals in your desired fields through networking events, workshops, or informational interviews. Finding a mentor who works in early childhood education or social work can provide guidance and advice as you navigate your educational path. They may also offer insights into college programs and career opportunities.
5. Research College Programs Start researching colleges that offer strong programs in early childhood education and social work. Look into their admission requirements, program curricula, faculty expertise, and internship opportunities available through the program. Understanding what each school offers can help you tailor your high school experience to meet those requirements.
6. Develop Relevant Skills Focus on developing skills that are essential for success in early childhood education and social work such as communication, empathy, problem-solving, and organizational skills. Participate in workshops or online courses related to child development theories or social justice issues to enhance your understanding of these fields.
7. Prepare for Standardized Tests Although standardized tests like the SAT or ACT may not be required by all colleges anymore, it’s still beneficial to prepare for them as some institutions might still consider them during admissions processes. Familiarize yourself with test formats and practice regularly to improve your scores.
8. Create a Portfolio As you accumulate experiences through volunteering, coursework, and extracurricular activities, start compiling a portfolio showcasing your achievements and reflections on what you’ve learned from each experience related to early childhood education or social work.
By taking these steps now while you’re still in 9th grade, you’ll be well-prepared for college applications when the time comes.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
1. National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
This organization provides resources on best practices in early childhood education including guidelines on professional preparation which are essential for aspiring educators.
2. Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
CSWE outlines educational standards for social work programs across the United States which helps students understand what is expected from accredited programs.
3. College Board
The College Board offers comprehensive information about college readiness including standardized testing strategies which are crucial for high school students preparing for higher education.
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|=========================God Bless You, Richly!===========================|
|=========================James Constantine=============================|
|=======================The Little Old Aussie Battler========================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|==========================~ Since 1972!================================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Things to Start Working Towards Being in 9th Grade for Early Childhood Education or Social Work
1. Academic Performance and Course Selection To build a strong foundation for college, focus on maintaining a high GPA. Take challenging courses that align with your interests in early childhood education or social work. Consider enrolling in Advanced Placement (AP) or honors classes if available, particularly in subjects like psychology, sociology, and child development. These courses will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to academic excellence.
2. Extracurricular Activities Engage in extracurricular activities that relate to your career interests. Look for clubs or organizations focused on community service, education, or child advocacy. Volunteering at local schools, daycare centers, or community organizations can provide hands-on experience working with children and families. This involvement will help you develop relevant skills and show colleges your dedication to the field.
3. Volunteer Work and Internships Seek out volunteer opportunities that allow you to work directly with children or families. This could include tutoring programs, mentoring initiatives, or volunteering at local non-profits that support youth services. Additionally, consider internships during the summer months; these experiences can provide valuable insights into the daily responsibilities of professionals in early childhood education and social work.
4. Networking and Mentorship Connect with professionals in your desired fields through networking events, workshops, or informational interviews. Finding a mentor who works in early childhood education or social work can provide guidance and advice as you navigate your educational path. They may also offer insights into college programs and career opportunities.
5. Research College Programs Start researching colleges that offer strong programs in early childhood education and social work. Look into their admission requirements, program curricula, faculty expertise, and internship opportunities available through the program. Understanding what each school offers can help you tailor your high school experience to meet those requirements.
6. Develop Relevant Skills Focus on developing skills that are essential for success in early childhood education and social work such as communication, empathy, problem-solving, and organizational skills. Participate in workshops or online courses related to child development theories or social justice issues to enhance your understanding of these fields.
7. Prepare for Standardized Tests Although standardized tests like the SAT or ACT may not be required by all colleges anymore, it’s still beneficial to prepare for them as some institutions might still consider them during admissions processes. Familiarize yourself with test formats and practice regularly to improve your scores.
8. Create a Portfolio As you accumulate experiences through volunteering, coursework, and extracurricular activities, start compiling a portfolio showcasing your achievements and reflections on what you’ve learned from each experience related to early childhood education or social work.
By taking these steps now while you’re still in 9th grade, you’ll be well-prepared for college applications when the time comes.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
1. National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
This organization provides resources on best practices in early childhood education including guidelines on professional preparation which are essential for aspiring educators.
2. Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
CSWE outlines educational standards for social work programs across the United States which helps students understand what is expected from accredited programs.
3. College Board
The College Board offers comprehensive information about college readiness including standardized testing strategies which are crucial for high school students preparing for higher education.
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|=========================God Bless You, Richly!===========================|
|=========================James Constantine=============================|
|=======================The Little Old Aussie Battler========================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|==========================~ Since 1972!================================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Updated
Dave’s Answer
Hi Angel!
I'm going to give you one tip that will make a huge difference in preparing for college. It will probably save you $25000 to $40,000. My two daughters used this one tip. Are you ready?
Take every advance placement class that you possibly can.
My daughter's graduated from college in two and a half years because they had all of the advanced placement credits that they earned in high school. College was so easy for them. And it was so much less cost, that they were able to and their college career with no student loans.
Work hard!
I'm going to give you one tip that will make a huge difference in preparing for college. It will probably save you $25000 to $40,000. My two daughters used this one tip. Are you ready?
Take every advance placement class that you possibly can.
My daughter's graduated from college in two and a half years because they had all of the advanced placement credits that they earned in high school. College was so easy for them. And it was so much less cost, that they were able to and their college career with no student loans.
Work hard!
Updated
Dharmesh’s Answer
Below are a few possible options for you to explore:
Top Priorities (High Impact)
1. Volunteer Work
- Find consistent volunteer opportunities with children (preschools, community centers, or mentoring programs).
- Focus on hands-on experience that aligns with early childhood education or social work.
2. Academic Excellence
- Maintain strong grades in core subjects, especially psychology, sociology, and English.
- Take advanced or honors courses
3. Relevant Courses
- Enroll in a child development or psychology class through dual enrollment or online platforms like Coursera.
Secondary Priorities (Skill-Building & Networking)
1. Certifications
- Obtain Red Cross Babysitting & Childcare or CPR certification. These are quick to complete and add value.
- Look into leadership programs to enhance your resume.
2. Clubs & Activities
- Join or start a community service or education-focused club.
- Get involved in student leadership roles or tutoring programs at school.
3. Shadowing & Mentorship
- Reach out to local educators or social workers to shadow them.
- Find a mentor in your field through your scholarship program or local organizations.
Long-Term Priorities (Broader Development)
1. Summer Programs
- Plan to attend a pre-college program focused on education, psychology, or leadership during summer.
2. Personal Projects
- Start a blog, YouTube channel, or community project focused on early education or social work topics.
3. Reading & Research
- Read books to deepen your understanding of child development.
4. Networking
- Attend college fairs and connect with organizations for youth events and resources.
Start with volunteering (commit to a regular schedule)
Talk to your school counselor about dual enrollment and advanced courses
Schedule time to complete certifications
Reach out to professionals for shadowing opportunities
Top Priorities (High Impact)
1. Volunteer Work
- Find consistent volunteer opportunities with children (preschools, community centers, or mentoring programs).
- Focus on hands-on experience that aligns with early childhood education or social work.
2. Academic Excellence
- Maintain strong grades in core subjects, especially psychology, sociology, and English.
- Take advanced or honors courses
3. Relevant Courses
- Enroll in a child development or psychology class through dual enrollment or online platforms like Coursera.
Secondary Priorities (Skill-Building & Networking)
1. Certifications
- Obtain Red Cross Babysitting & Childcare or CPR certification. These are quick to complete and add value.
- Look into leadership programs to enhance your resume.
2. Clubs & Activities
- Join or start a community service or education-focused club.
- Get involved in student leadership roles or tutoring programs at school.
3. Shadowing & Mentorship
- Reach out to local educators or social workers to shadow them.
- Find a mentor in your field through your scholarship program or local organizations.
Long-Term Priorities (Broader Development)
1. Summer Programs
- Plan to attend a pre-college program focused on education, psychology, or leadership during summer.
2. Personal Projects
- Start a blog, YouTube channel, or community project focused on early education or social work topics.
3. Reading & Research
- Read books to deepen your understanding of child development.
4. Networking
- Attend college fairs and connect with organizations for youth events and resources.
Dharmesh recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Angel’s Answer
Hi! To strengthen your portfolio, consider volunteering at childcare centers, schools, or community organizations. Join clubs related to leadership or service, like Key Club. Take part in workshops on child development or social work. Focus on maintaining good grades, building strong relationships for recommendation letters, and showcasing passion through meaningful activities.