25 answers
Alden
Student
Albany, Georgia
1
Question
Asked
788 views
What is the smartest thing to do while in high school to succeed in college and later in your first job?
What is the smartest thing to do while in high school to succeed in college and later in your first job?
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25 answers
Megan McCoy
Career Coach
162
Answers
Lakeland, Florida
Updated
Megan’s Answer
Great question Alden!
The smartest thing you can do is EXPLORE!
Research schools and careers of interest
job shadow some different careers of interest
volunteer in areas of interest
get a part-time job or internship
join clubs and organizations that help you build skills
take courses that challenge you and help you explore skills needed for your career of interest
The more you explore the more secure you will feel in your degree choice. Being involved in college and continuing to gain experience is also important to finding a job after.
I hope this helps!
The smartest thing you can do is EXPLORE!
Research schools and careers of interest
job shadow some different careers of interest
volunteer in areas of interest
get a part-time job or internship
join clubs and organizations that help you build skills
take courses that challenge you and help you explore skills needed for your career of interest
The more you explore the more secure you will feel in your degree choice. Being involved in college and continuing to gain experience is also important to finding a job after.
I hope this helps!
Casey Washington
Management consulting
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Casey’s Answer
Hi Alden, I'd highly recommend exploring your interests and trying as many new things as possible. As a high school student, you have the unique opportunity to try new things and quickly pivot / anchor on alternatives once you realize that you do or do not like something.
More tactically, this means that you should self reflect and identify things that interest you (e.g., hobbies, specific academic subjects, career paths), and find various opportunities for each (e.g., internships, programs, jobs) to try them out and see if you enjoy them. Doing so will allow you to deliberately figure out what you do / do not enjoy, and set you up for success when figuring out what you'd like to do next (e.g., applying to colleges, figuring out what career(s) are of interest). One thing to remember, is that it is okay to be uncertain in what you want to pursue. As a high schooler, your primary goal in setting yourself up for success and in your career, is to figure out what you enjoy. Once you've figured that out, your path becomes much clearer, and you have a goal to work towards.
More tactically, this means that you should self reflect and identify things that interest you (e.g., hobbies, specific academic subjects, career paths), and find various opportunities for each (e.g., internships, programs, jobs) to try them out and see if you enjoy them. Doing so will allow you to deliberately figure out what you do / do not enjoy, and set you up for success when figuring out what you'd like to do next (e.g., applying to colleges, figuring out what career(s) are of interest). One thing to remember, is that it is okay to be uncertain in what you want to pursue. As a high schooler, your primary goal in setting yourself up for success and in your career, is to figure out what you enjoy. Once you've figured that out, your path becomes much clearer, and you have a goal to work towards.
Sydney Streets
Talent Attraction Senior Manager
7
Answers
Burlington, Vermont
Updated
Sydney’s Answer
Give everything a shot! Discover themes, chances, subjects, and sports that spark your interest and go after them. Especially when challenges arise, don't give up. In the same vein, put your best foot forward in school. While grades aren't the be-all and end-all, they can certainly pave the way for new opportunities. If you ever find yourself needing assistance, don't hesitate to ask for help. Remember, there's no reward for struggling alone. Hope this guidance brings you some comfort!
Kamal Yechoor
Management Consultant
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Kamal’s Answer
What a fantastic question! Looking back at my journey, I've realized that everyone is unique, with their own set of strengths and weaknesses. The initial step is to identify your current skills and figure out which ones need improvement.
In my case, the skill I found most challenging in high school was the same one that gave me trouble in college and my career. Time management and prioritization. Other essential skills might include forging strong relationships, boosting creativity, learning new things, or any of the other skills mentioned by others.
The first thing you need to do is pinpoint what you want to improve, and then devise a plan to tackle it. This usually involves seeking advice from others, trying out new strategies to see what works and what doesn't, and not being too hard on yourself if things don't improve right away. Remember, it's all about continuous learning and gradual improvement. In my case, I tried numerous sophisticated to-do lists, but what worked best for me was a simple reminder of the top 3 tasks I needed to complete each day and week, and sticking to it. I'm sure everyone has their own unique tips and tricks that work for them!
I hope this advice is helpful!
In my case, the skill I found most challenging in high school was the same one that gave me trouble in college and my career. Time management and prioritization. Other essential skills might include forging strong relationships, boosting creativity, learning new things, or any of the other skills mentioned by others.
The first thing you need to do is pinpoint what you want to improve, and then devise a plan to tackle it. This usually involves seeking advice from others, trying out new strategies to see what works and what doesn't, and not being too hard on yourself if things don't improve right away. Remember, it's all about continuous learning and gradual improvement. In my case, I tried numerous sophisticated to-do lists, but what worked best for me was a simple reminder of the top 3 tasks I needed to complete each day and week, and sticking to it. I'm sure everyone has their own unique tips and tricks that work for them!
I hope this advice is helpful!
Shelisa Henley
Child Psychologist
44
Answers
Warner Robins, Georgia
Updated
Shelisa’s Answer
Good Morning ! Smart Hearts!!
Thank you !! For your Question!
It is part of Wonderful World
You All are the Smart Ones!! In High School ! I was the Recipient of Who's Who Among High School Students Award!! I learned early on to be Thankful for every random act of kindness displayed
by Good People that helped make college a reality for me. My Freshman Year, I received a Nomination from
Who's Who Among College Students!! Again I said Thank you
And I Congratulated the winner which helped me to propel in college and land my first job!! Be Appreciative!! If you learn to Say Thank You Now !!!You Say Thank You later!!! Hope this help!! Remember All of ones that helped you along the way in High School, College and Career!!! Winners!!!
Shelisa
🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
?
Thank you !! For your Question!
It is part of Wonderful World
You All are the Smart Ones!! In High School ! I was the Recipient of Who's Who Among High School Students Award!! I learned early on to be Thankful for every random act of kindness displayed
by Good People that helped make college a reality for me. My Freshman Year, I received a Nomination from
Who's Who Among College Students!! Again I said Thank you
And I Congratulated the winner which helped me to propel in college and land my first job!! Be Appreciative!! If you learn to Say Thank You Now !!!You Say Thank You later!!! Hope this help!! Remember All of ones that helped you along the way in High School, College and Career!!! Winners!!!
Shelisa
🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞
?
Shavon Overstreet
Office Manager
5
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Shavon’s Answer
Some helpful things to do is to take time to consider if you are working on what are considered the competencies of the workforce: critical thinking, communication, leadership, time management, teamwork skills, your level of
professionalism, and your technical skills. These are skills you’ll need in college and in the workforce. When you’re considering colleges you should also consider the career you want to pursue. They two will work hand and hand because you’ll want to know which college offers the degree program in the field you’d like to go into and the success rate of graduates and those who have obtained jobs of people who have studied.
It’s also good to look into summer programs the winter before, like now so that you can apply and be one of the first to be considered.
Never forget that everything you do whether it’s a hobby, the types of shows you’re attracted to, the foods you like to eat, all come into play when planning your future. They can help you gauge, what you can do during stressful times to get back focused, what locations you should consider when you’re deciding where to study and work, and what type of culture you will succeed in when you get there.
So yes, it is good to have volunteer hours, and to pursue a career that will allow you to have financial freedom, but it’s also important to know you’ll want to be in places where you can always be able to show off your strengths and build on them.
professionalism, and your technical skills. These are skills you’ll need in college and in the workforce. When you’re considering colleges you should also consider the career you want to pursue. They two will work hand and hand because you’ll want to know which college offers the degree program in the field you’d like to go into and the success rate of graduates and those who have obtained jobs of people who have studied.
It’s also good to look into summer programs the winter before, like now so that you can apply and be one of the first to be considered.
Never forget that everything you do whether it’s a hobby, the types of shows you’re attracted to, the foods you like to eat, all come into play when planning your future. They can help you gauge, what you can do during stressful times to get back focused, what locations you should consider when you’re deciding where to study and work, and what type of culture you will succeed in when you get there.
So yes, it is good to have volunteer hours, and to pursue a career that will allow you to have financial freedom, but it’s also important to know you’ll want to be in places where you can always be able to show off your strengths and build on them.
Alicia Canady
Healthcare Administrator
2
Answers
Chula Vista, California
Updated
Alicia’s Answer
Hi Alden! This is a great question. The best advice I could give to you is make sure you have a strategic plan regarding your future. Meaning, look at ways you can get college credits while in high school. There are options that my son did like taking AP courses that give you college credit after taking the AP exam in the particular subjects, go to summer school at the local city college and take courses that apply to your undergraduate degree. This will not only save you time but also save you money. Also, make sure you are doing research on majors that are needed because, you don’t want to spend time and money pursuing a major that is over saturated and you can’t get a job. Lastly, I would say if you are good at tests take CLEP exams as well. Remember, you don’t want to graduate college only to be bogged down with student loan debt. It’s wonderful your asking these types of questions now before you head to college. Take care and I know you will succeed. -Alicia
Myra Rivera
product management
9
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Myra’s Answer
Connect with individuals who work in fields you're passionate about, and don't hesitate to ask your teachers if they know anyone who'd be willing to chat with you briefly or exchange emails. This way, you can gain more insight into their profession and how they achieved their success.
Always be open to learning and maintain a positive mindset.
Remember, it's perfectly okay not to be an expert in a topic right now. With a growth mindset, you can acquire new skills and improve over time. So, dedicate some time to learn and master something important to you. You have the potential to achieve anything you set your mind to.
Always be open to learning and maintain a positive mindset.
Remember, it's perfectly okay not to be an expert in a topic right now. With a growth mindset, you can acquire new skills and improve over time. So, dedicate some time to learn and master something important to you. You have the potential to achieve anything you set your mind to.
Alfonso Carrillo
Consultant
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Alfonso’s Answer
Hey there, Alden!
I trust this message finds you in high spirits. Your question is indeed a fantastic one, and I wish someone had given me guidance on this subject earlier. My earnest advice to you is to dive into various experiences, enjoy the present moment, and not to stress too much about what lies ahead.
At your age, it's crucial to explore diverse opportunities. It's a time when you can experiment with new things without the fear of failure. If you're considering a particular career, try to connect with people who are already established in that field. Ask them about their daily responsabilities, what they love about their job, and how they got there. Consider seeking an internship during the summer or a part-time job, but remember to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Moreover, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone - join sports teams, participate in extracurricular activities, become a member of school clubs, and so on.
Remember to cherish the present moment. You're at a unique stage in life - enjoy your academic journey, spend quality time with family and friends, and be proactive in discovering your passions and what truly brings you joy.
Lastly, don't stress too much about the future. It's natural to feel overwhelmed by the decisions you'll have to make, such as choosing a career, selecting a school, landing your first job, and so on. But remember, it's okay not to have all the answers right away. Enjoy the journey, and don't hesitate to seek guidance from trusted individuals or professionals if you ever feel lost.
And one last piece of advice - always strive to identify your areas for improvement and work towards enhancing them!
I trust this message finds you in high spirits. Your question is indeed a fantastic one, and I wish someone had given me guidance on this subject earlier. My earnest advice to you is to dive into various experiences, enjoy the present moment, and not to stress too much about what lies ahead.
At your age, it's crucial to explore diverse opportunities. It's a time when you can experiment with new things without the fear of failure. If you're considering a particular career, try to connect with people who are already established in that field. Ask them about their daily responsabilities, what they love about their job, and how they got there. Consider seeking an internship during the summer or a part-time job, but remember to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Moreover, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone - join sports teams, participate in extracurricular activities, become a member of school clubs, and so on.
Remember to cherish the present moment. You're at a unique stage in life - enjoy your academic journey, spend quality time with family and friends, and be proactive in discovering your passions and what truly brings you joy.
Lastly, don't stress too much about the future. It's natural to feel overwhelmed by the decisions you'll have to make, such as choosing a career, selecting a school, landing your first job, and so on. But remember, it's okay not to have all the answers right away. Enjoy the journey, and don't hesitate to seek guidance from trusted individuals or professionals if you ever feel lost.
And one last piece of advice - always strive to identify your areas for improvement and work towards enhancing them!
Krishna Patel
Consulting
9
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Krishna’s Answer
Would recommend having an open mind and exploring everything that you feel comfortable exploring, both in terms of subjects but also activities that are available to you. You'll be surprised by what you end up liking that you didn't expect to.
Also, don't get caught up with what other people are doing or are interested in. Focus on what makes you feel fulfilled in life and pursue those things in the fullest. Being like everyone else is easier, but people can easily tell when you're truly passionate about something vs just do it because everyone else does. Find those passions and go 110% into it.
Also, don't get caught up with what other people are doing or are interested in. Focus on what makes you feel fulfilled in life and pursue those things in the fullest. Being like everyone else is easier, but people can easily tell when you're truly passionate about something vs just do it because everyone else does. Find those passions and go 110% into it.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6193
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Alden!
Mastering Time Management Skills
In high school, one of the wisest moves to ensure success in college and your initial job is to master time management skills. These skills are key to staying organized, prioritizing tasks, and meeting deadlines. By managing your time effectively, you can minimize stress and strike a healthy balance between school, hobbies, and personal life.
To master time management skills, begin by drafting a daily or weekly plan that includes your tasks, deadlines, and commitments. Assign specific time slots for each activity and strive to adhere to your plan as much as possible. Also, learn to rank tasks based on their significance and deadlines, and steer clear of procrastination. Break down big tasks into smaller, manageable steps to make them less overwhelming.
Participating in Extracurricular Activities
Participating in extracurricular activities that you enjoy is another wise strategy for high school students. These activities can help you acquire crucial skills like teamwork, leadership, and communication, which are invaluable in both college and the workplace. Moreover, extracurricular activities can make you more noticeable when applying to colleges and future employers.
Opt for activities that resonate with your interests and passions, as this will make them more fun and easier to commit to in the long run. Consider joining clubs, sports teams, or volunteer opportunities to develop new skills and establish a robust network of supportive peers and mentors.
Reaching Out for Help When Necessary
Remember, no one is flawless, and it's completely fine to seek help when you're having trouble with a subject or concept. Asking for help from teachers, tutors, or classmates can stop minor issues from escalating into major ones and ensure that you fully comprehend the material.
By asking for help, you're also showing a readiness to learn and evolve, which is a crucial trait for both college and future job prospects.
Cultivating a Growth Mindset
Having a growth mindset means believing in your ability to enhance and learn new skills through hard work and perseverance. This mindset is crucial for success in high school, college, and your first job. Embrace challenges, learn from your errors, and continuously aim to better yourself.
To cultivate a growth mindset, focus on your progress instead of comparing yourself to others. Set attainable goals and celebrate your victories, no matter how minor. Surround yourself with positive influences and seek out opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Recommended Reading:
Time Management: Strategies and Techniques for Students
The Importance of Extracurricular Activities in High School
The Growth Mindset: How to Foster One in Yourself and Others
Do check out my autobiography titled "James Constantine". It includes lists of nutrient-rich foods that the brain needs for academic work, excelling in exams, and delivering lectures.
Stay Blessed!
James.
Mastering Time Management Skills
In high school, one of the wisest moves to ensure success in college and your initial job is to master time management skills. These skills are key to staying organized, prioritizing tasks, and meeting deadlines. By managing your time effectively, you can minimize stress and strike a healthy balance between school, hobbies, and personal life.
To master time management skills, begin by drafting a daily or weekly plan that includes your tasks, deadlines, and commitments. Assign specific time slots for each activity and strive to adhere to your plan as much as possible. Also, learn to rank tasks based on their significance and deadlines, and steer clear of procrastination. Break down big tasks into smaller, manageable steps to make them less overwhelming.
Participating in Extracurricular Activities
Participating in extracurricular activities that you enjoy is another wise strategy for high school students. These activities can help you acquire crucial skills like teamwork, leadership, and communication, which are invaluable in both college and the workplace. Moreover, extracurricular activities can make you more noticeable when applying to colleges and future employers.
Opt for activities that resonate with your interests and passions, as this will make them more fun and easier to commit to in the long run. Consider joining clubs, sports teams, or volunteer opportunities to develop new skills and establish a robust network of supportive peers and mentors.
Reaching Out for Help When Necessary
Remember, no one is flawless, and it's completely fine to seek help when you're having trouble with a subject or concept. Asking for help from teachers, tutors, or classmates can stop minor issues from escalating into major ones and ensure that you fully comprehend the material.
By asking for help, you're also showing a readiness to learn and evolve, which is a crucial trait for both college and future job prospects.
Cultivating a Growth Mindset
Having a growth mindset means believing in your ability to enhance and learn new skills through hard work and perseverance. This mindset is crucial for success in high school, college, and your first job. Embrace challenges, learn from your errors, and continuously aim to better yourself.
To cultivate a growth mindset, focus on your progress instead of comparing yourself to others. Set attainable goals and celebrate your victories, no matter how minor. Surround yourself with positive influences and seek out opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Recommended Reading:
Time Management: Strategies and Techniques for Students
The Importance of Extracurricular Activities in High School
The Growth Mindset: How to Foster One in Yourself and Others
Do check out my autobiography titled "James Constantine". It includes lists of nutrient-rich foods that the brain needs for academic work, excelling in exams, and delivering lectures.
Stay Blessed!
James.
Leo Agnihotri
Consultant
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Leo’s Answer
Hey Alden!
I'd recommend trying the following: wander purposefully. Like many have said now is a time to go out and explore! But there are so many things out there to try so it can be overwhelming.
My recommendation would be to take an honest look at your past experiences and let that guide what you try next. Try to deconstruct each experience you have and break it down into the core components that drove your satisfaction of the experience. Maybe it was the people that made it fun. Or perhaps it was the amount you could talk to customers. Or maybe it was the flexible work schedule that worked really well for you!
As you go through trying all these different interests and jobs, you should reflect on your experience so that over time you begin to see your options narrow (in a good way!). This will lead you to a set of college/career options that you know you'll be happy with, even if you're still figuring out "exactly" what your passion is.
Hope that helps!
I'd recommend trying the following: wander purposefully. Like many have said now is a time to go out and explore! But there are so many things out there to try so it can be overwhelming.
My recommendation would be to take an honest look at your past experiences and let that guide what you try next. Try to deconstruct each experience you have and break it down into the core components that drove your satisfaction of the experience. Maybe it was the people that made it fun. Or perhaps it was the amount you could talk to customers. Or maybe it was the flexible work schedule that worked really well for you!
As you go through trying all these different interests and jobs, you should reflect on your experience so that over time you begin to see your options narrow (in a good way!). This will lead you to a set of college/career options that you know you'll be happy with, even if you're still figuring out "exactly" what your passion is.
Hope that helps!
Carlos Santiago Villeda
Consulting
5
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Carlos Santiago’s Answer
The best action you can take is to strive for excellent grades and participate in groups that spark your interest. This will pave the way for you to select your desired college, alleviate concerns about debt, and delve into your deepest passions!
Kyle Enos, MBA
Maintenance Manager
1
Answer
Yorba Linda, California
Updated
Kyle’s Answer
It varies between every individual as we're not all on the same path or have the same background. My parents always taught me to have discipline, optimism, and passion for whatever I do and to enjoy life. You will not have the correct answer in high school because opportunities may be less plentiful later. I recommend exploring your options! Get a part-time job, play/explore sports, find a hobby or two, network at school or with friends, and find a mentor willing to provide information and life experience to you. The sky is the limit, honestly!
I didn't have the right answer when I was in high school on how to succeed, but it started in my job by doing my best, showing up, and genuinely wanting to grow. As a first job, you're not going to be perfect and might even fail, but those failures are crucial to growth and development. Apply to your first job and take one step at a time. When you get into college, do your best, but find or have a mentor who provides excellent perspective and alignment to your life goals, as they can help steer you in the right direction and maybe to new directions.
I didn't have the right answer when I was in high school on how to succeed, but it started in my job by doing my best, showing up, and genuinely wanting to grow. As a first job, you're not going to be perfect and might even fail, but those failures are crucial to growth and development. Apply to your first job and take one step at a time. When you get into college, do your best, but find or have a mentor who provides excellent perspective and alignment to your life goals, as they can help steer you in the right direction and maybe to new directions.
Smiti Dani
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Smiti’s Answer
Be honest and intentional with yourself and your time!
1. Find people that energise you (and keep in touch with them)
2. Explore areas of work that you are passionate about and will help you achieve your financial goals
3. Be true to yourself and your family
4. Work very hard - nothing beats this : )
Good luck!
Make a plan!
1. Find people that energise you (and keep in touch with them)
2. Explore areas of work that you are passionate about and will help you achieve your financial goals
3. Be true to yourself and your family
4. Work very hard - nothing beats this : )
Good luck!
Smiti recommends the following next steps:
Diana-Andreea Fuiorea
Global Product Marketing Manager
1
Answer
Bucharest, Romania
Updated
Diana-Andreea’s Answer
This is a fantastic question! My advice to you is to look for trainings to attend, internships and try to find a good mentor. Internships will take you into the world of business, where you will discover what it means to be a professional and decide which path you want to take in your career. Trainings will get you connected with like-minded individuals and you will increase your knowledge and connections. A good mentor will share his/her career experience and will answer any questions you might have about specific situations.
Alan Weber
writer and retired teacher, teacher educator and academic advisor
207
Answers
Woodstock, New York
Updated
Alan’s Answer
Alden, I think the keys to success in college start with developing your writing skills, your organizational skills and your time management skills. Then I would think about things like sufficient sleep, rest/relaxation, exercise and nutrition, along with a healthy amount of socializing, reading and hobbies. Life experiences can be very important in becoming a well rounded, mature and knowledgeable student and prospective professional. And I would certainly start thinking, assuming you haven't already, about the major and career that you think suits you best. Consider your interests, hobbies, skills, experiences and values, and start exploring the websites of colleges you might be considering to find the classes and programs that feel like the best match.
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
607
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
I regret not building more connections with others. That and not jumping more groups and associations. Connections -especially the right ones- can have an amazing impact on your personal and professional life.
Don’t be so quick to just plow through it. While I pushed through my BA, my MBA I networked much more and gained a tremendous amount of connections! A much better experience that 10 years later is still helping me.
Don’t be so quick to just plow through it. While I pushed through my BA, my MBA I networked much more and gained a tremendous amount of connections! A much better experience that 10 years later is still helping me.
Emily Pepper
Financial Analyst
4
Answers
Hopkinton, Massachusetts
Updated
Emily’s Answer
I think some of the smartest things to do in high school are to become involved in clubs and sports at your school. Getting a leadership position later in your high school career. This gives you something to talk about in interviews and also teaches you how to mange your time. You get leadership skills, as well as socialization. I would carry that mind set over to college. I was a Teaching Assistant in college and in a leadership position in one of the clubs I was in. I feel like this helped me a lot in interviews for jobs, as I had professional experiences to reach back on.
Good luck!
Good luck!
Ezra Jackson
Security
81
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Ezra’s Answer
Greetings,
The solution is quite straightforward, simply commit yourself wholeheartedly. Strive to grasp each subject thoroughly and immerse yourself in the content.
The solution is quite straightforward, simply commit yourself wholeheartedly. Strive to grasp each subject thoroughly and immerse yourself in the content.
Victor Diaz Fung, CAIA
Associate - Consultant
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Victor’s Answer
Here's my best advice for you: enjoy every step of your journey, let your curiosity run wild, and build strong relationships. I'd dare to say that almost all of your high school experiences won't determine your entire future. Think of this time as a special period to discover your interests and find out what really lights up your soul. Once you find that spark, guiding yourself along your own special path becomes easy and enjoyable.
Joseph Gale
Management Consultancy
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
I believe it comes down to 3 aspects:
1. Ensuring you excel at high school and prepare as well as possible for tests/exams.
2. Enjoy yourself outside of class doing extra-curricular activities, for example debating club (builds strong verbal skills), sports (builds teamwork, resilience) and anything else that you enjoy.
3. Understand what jobs exist and connect with people (friends parents for example) asking if you can shadow them at work for a week in your school break. Make sure to understand what you like / don’t like about specific jobs and then ask people how they got to their current position
1. Ensuring you excel at high school and prepare as well as possible for tests/exams.
2. Enjoy yourself outside of class doing extra-curricular activities, for example debating club (builds strong verbal skills), sports (builds teamwork, resilience) and anything else that you enjoy.
3. Understand what jobs exist and connect with people (friends parents for example) asking if you can shadow them at work for a week in your school break. Make sure to understand what you like / don’t like about specific jobs and then ask people how they got to their current position
Rian Alam
Student
139
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Rian’s Answer
Hi Alden,
One thing I would recommend would be getting a job. A job not only looks great for your college application, but it also teaches you a lot about the real world and responsibility. Getting a job and learning a specialty also helps set you up for the future in college where it can be nice to have some extra income!
One thing I would recommend would be getting a job. A job not only looks great for your college application, but it also teaches you a lot about the real world and responsibility. Getting a job and learning a specialty also helps set you up for the future in college where it can be nice to have some extra income!
Mari Huaman
financial analyst
2
Answers
Round Rock, Texas
Updated
Mari’s Answer
Success in college and your first job often involves a combination of academic achievement, personal development, and practical skills. Here are some smart things to do while in high school to set yourself up for success in college and your future career:
Maintain a Strong Academic Record
- Focus on your studies and strive for academic excellence. A solid academic foundation can open doors to various opportunities in college and beyond.
Develop Strong Study Habits
- Learn effective study techniques and time management skills. These habits will serve you well in college when coursework becomes more challenging and self-directed.
Take Challenging Courses
- Challenge yourself with advanced or honors courses. This not only demonstrates your academic prowess but also prepares you for the rigor of college coursework.
Build a Well-Rounded Skill Set
- Develop a diverse set of skills, both academic and practical. This could include critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and technical skills relevant to your areas of interest.
Participate in Extracurricular Activities
- Join clubs, sports, or other extracurricular activities. This not only enhances your college application but also helps you develop leadership, teamwork, and time management skills.
Seek Leadership Opportunities
- Take on leadership roles within your school or community. This could be in student government, clubs, or volunteer organizations. Leadership experience is valuable in both college admissions and the professional world.
Cultivate Relationships with Teachers
- Build positive relationships with your teachers. They can provide guidance, mentorship, and strong recommendation letters for college applications and job opportunities.
Explore Your Interests
- Use high school as a time to explore different subjects and interests. This exploration can help you identify your passions and guide your academic and career choices.
Remember that success is a holistic concept, encompassing academic achievements, personal development, and the ability to navigate real-world challenges. By investing time and effort in these areas during high school, you'll be better positioned to succeed in college and your future career.
Maintain a Strong Academic Record
- Focus on your studies and strive for academic excellence. A solid academic foundation can open doors to various opportunities in college and beyond.
Develop Strong Study Habits
- Learn effective study techniques and time management skills. These habits will serve you well in college when coursework becomes more challenging and self-directed.
Take Challenging Courses
- Challenge yourself with advanced or honors courses. This not only demonstrates your academic prowess but also prepares you for the rigor of college coursework.
Build a Well-Rounded Skill Set
- Develop a diverse set of skills, both academic and practical. This could include critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and technical skills relevant to your areas of interest.
Participate in Extracurricular Activities
- Join clubs, sports, or other extracurricular activities. This not only enhances your college application but also helps you develop leadership, teamwork, and time management skills.
Seek Leadership Opportunities
- Take on leadership roles within your school or community. This could be in student government, clubs, or volunteer organizations. Leadership experience is valuable in both college admissions and the professional world.
Cultivate Relationships with Teachers
- Build positive relationships with your teachers. They can provide guidance, mentorship, and strong recommendation letters for college applications and job opportunities.
Explore Your Interests
- Use high school as a time to explore different subjects and interests. This exploration can help you identify your passions and guide your academic and career choices.
Remember that success is a holistic concept, encompassing academic achievements, personal development, and the ability to navigate real-world challenges. By investing time and effort in these areas during high school, you'll be better positioned to succeed in college and your future career.
Ali Komeily
Management Consulting
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Ali’s Answer
It's fantastic that you're taking the initiative to think about your future. High school can be a powerful tool that extends far beyond college and your first job - it's a life-changing experience. Stay curious about the world, acquire a variety of skills, engage with diverse people, and develop robust social abilities! I want to stress that your learning potential during high school is at its peak! Consider high school as a unique chance to discover and gradually identify your true passions. Here are some suggestions: 1) Establish strong habits: this is the perfect time to shape your long-term behaviors and habits. Focus on cultivating successful habits like discipline, time management, respect, and effective study techniques. 2) Social skills: ideally, you can refine your social abilities through a part-time job or a summer internship. 3) Utilize your summers for productive learning. 4) Be mindful about choosing your friends. 5) Investigate various career paths and try to learn about or experiment with them... Wishing you the best of luck!