10 answers
Olivia
Student
Pottstown, Pennsylvania
1
Question
Asked
1404 views
How do I make goals for myself in highschool to prepare me for college ?
I am 17 years old and I have plenty of opportunities. I have an internship with an animal hospital and I am financially stable. For some reason I cannot figure out what I want to do or create any goals for myself and this has become a problem. It’s slowing me down in school work because I see no end goal. Anything would be appreciated.
Login to comment
10 answers
Autumn Houseknecht
Software Engineer
1
Answer
Buffalo, New York
Updated
Autumn’s Answer
Hi Olivia,
You are very wise to be thinking about goal setting and your future already. Simply starting to consider what's in store for your future, even if you don't make any decisions, is a very good first step; you will be surprised how your brain continues to work on the problem even when you're not actively thinking about the subject.
Others here have already shared some great advice for goal setting and thinking about your future. I echo the excellent suggestions to write goals down, make the goals specific and for various timelines (short, mid, long term), and for visualizing your future. When you're thinking about your future, it doesn't have to necessarily even be career-related, which can sometimes be overwhelming. Try picturing the kind of life you want to live: Do you see yourself working? Traveling? In service of others? Do you want to find a life partner and start a family? Would you live in a city or in a rural area? Are you surrounded by people or do you prefer spending time alone? Really visualize that picture in your head and note the details: What do you see? What do you feel? What do you hear? Taking the time to think about your future self will help you focus in on the goals and steps you need to take to realize your vision.
You mentioned you have many opportunities, which is wonderful! However, sometimes so many opportunities can be paralyzing, too, and make it difficult to make decisions. I can count on one hand the number of people I've met who knew exactly what they wanted to do with their life. And I'm not included in that group! When I started college, I was on a pre-law path. I ended up adding a programming class into my schedule my first semester to fill in an open space, because I had enjoyed tinkering with computers as a child. That one decision changed my entire path, and I ended up earning a BS in Computer Science. I am so glad I happened to take that one class!
We can feel a lot of pressure to make decisions and set a path forward. It is perfectly normal to feel unsure or even to have no clue what you want to do. This is where the opportunities you have can be a great tool. Rather than fall into the trap of feeling like you need to choose between this or that, take this time in your life to explore: Try different jobs, talk to lots of people, volunteer, read, be curious. Trying out different opportunities will help you learn what you like and what you don't. This time in your life should be about experiencing as many opportunities as you can. AND (it's a big AND because it's so important), if you do make a choice or set a goal and later find it doesn't work out, learn from the experience, change your mind, and move forward with a new goal. Make your own path, and let it reflect all that is unique and amazing about you!
Finally, talk to the trusted adults in your life: your parents, an aunt or uncle, teacher, or a neighbor. Share your thinking with them and your struggles. I bet they'll be able to give you some good pointers and advice as the people who know you best! Even talking a problem through out loud can spark changes in your own thinking or a new perspective you've never considered.
I encourage you to keep thinking, continue to ask questions, and always remain curious. Work hard on whatever it is you choose to do, be trustworthy, a good listener, and courageous....these traits will open doors for you and enable you to follow your dreams. There's a reason people often say, "the world is your oyster".....there is so much opportunity in the world: be bold and go for it! You owe it to yourself!
Best wishes and keep dreaming!
All the best,
Autumn
You are very wise to be thinking about goal setting and your future already. Simply starting to consider what's in store for your future, even if you don't make any decisions, is a very good first step; you will be surprised how your brain continues to work on the problem even when you're not actively thinking about the subject.
Others here have already shared some great advice for goal setting and thinking about your future. I echo the excellent suggestions to write goals down, make the goals specific and for various timelines (short, mid, long term), and for visualizing your future. When you're thinking about your future, it doesn't have to necessarily even be career-related, which can sometimes be overwhelming. Try picturing the kind of life you want to live: Do you see yourself working? Traveling? In service of others? Do you want to find a life partner and start a family? Would you live in a city or in a rural area? Are you surrounded by people or do you prefer spending time alone? Really visualize that picture in your head and note the details: What do you see? What do you feel? What do you hear? Taking the time to think about your future self will help you focus in on the goals and steps you need to take to realize your vision.
You mentioned you have many opportunities, which is wonderful! However, sometimes so many opportunities can be paralyzing, too, and make it difficult to make decisions. I can count on one hand the number of people I've met who knew exactly what they wanted to do with their life. And I'm not included in that group! When I started college, I was on a pre-law path. I ended up adding a programming class into my schedule my first semester to fill in an open space, because I had enjoyed tinkering with computers as a child. That one decision changed my entire path, and I ended up earning a BS in Computer Science. I am so glad I happened to take that one class!
We can feel a lot of pressure to make decisions and set a path forward. It is perfectly normal to feel unsure or even to have no clue what you want to do. This is where the opportunities you have can be a great tool. Rather than fall into the trap of feeling like you need to choose between this or that, take this time in your life to explore: Try different jobs, talk to lots of people, volunteer, read, be curious. Trying out different opportunities will help you learn what you like and what you don't. This time in your life should be about experiencing as many opportunities as you can. AND (it's a big AND because it's so important), if you do make a choice or set a goal and later find it doesn't work out, learn from the experience, change your mind, and move forward with a new goal. Make your own path, and let it reflect all that is unique and amazing about you!
Finally, talk to the trusted adults in your life: your parents, an aunt or uncle, teacher, or a neighbor. Share your thinking with them and your struggles. I bet they'll be able to give you some good pointers and advice as the people who know you best! Even talking a problem through out loud can spark changes in your own thinking or a new perspective you've never considered.
I encourage you to keep thinking, continue to ask questions, and always remain curious. Work hard on whatever it is you choose to do, be trustworthy, a good listener, and courageous....these traits will open doors for you and enable you to follow your dreams. There's a reason people often say, "the world is your oyster".....there is so much opportunity in the world: be bold and go for it! You owe it to yourself!
Best wishes and keep dreaming!
All the best,
Autumn
Kasey Clement
Sales Supervisor
3
Answers
Nashua, New Hampshire
Updated
Kasey’s Answer
Hey Olivia! It's absolutely fantastic to see you so focused on your goals at just 17! I was much the same at your age. My advice would be to set yourself manageable, achievable targets. Start with what you want to accomplish in 30 days, then 90 days, half a year, a full year... and work your way up from there. It's important to remember that where you see yourself today might be vastly different from where you'll be in 8 years. And guess what? That's perfectly okay! It's completely normal not to have your professional path all figured out yet.
If you're thinking about college, a good approach could be to concentrate on your core subjects initially and then pick a major later on. Alternatively, if you're drawn to the trades, it could be useful to explore different areas and see what really sparks your interest.
Remember, setting small but meaningful goals can pave the way for your future success.
If you're thinking about college, a good approach could be to concentrate on your core subjects initially and then pick a major later on. Alternatively, if you're drawn to the trades, it could be useful to explore different areas and see what really sparks your interest.
Remember, setting small but meaningful goals can pave the way for your future success.
Sebastian Salvador Tapia Ceballos
Customer Success
6
Answers
Santiago, Santiago Metropolitan Region, Chile
Updated
Sebastian Salvador’s Answer
Hi Olivia, I appreciate you opening up about your worries. Remember, it's normal to encounter such feelings at various points in life, so don't be too hard on yourself! Your main task now is to identify your current objective and guiding light (which will evolve as you mature) and remain committed to it. Don't fixate on achievements, instead, concentrate on the journey and learning from obstacles to enhance the quality of future results. As you navigate through life, you'll discover that setting plans and goals can be a bit of a rollercoaster ride, often requiring flexibility and adaptability.
To assist you, I'd like to introduce a popular goal-setting strategy known as the SMART approach. In essence, your goals should be Specific (well-defined), Measurable (quantifiable), Achievable (realistic and attainable), Relevant (in line with your identity, values, and career), and Time-bound (with a clear deadline). When you jot them down, ensure they adhere to the SMART criteria, and limit them to five at most to stay focused. Regularly revisit them to monitor your progress. I recommend conducting monthly assessments, scrutinizing each goal in detail.
Here's a helpful template to guide you: https://www.ucop.edu/local-human-resources/_files/performance-appraisal/How%20to%20write%20SMART%20Goals%20v2.pdf. The SMART approach is widely recognized, so you'll find plenty of resources online. Keep exploring, and you'll master it in no time!
To assist you, I'd like to introduce a popular goal-setting strategy known as the SMART approach. In essence, your goals should be Specific (well-defined), Measurable (quantifiable), Achievable (realistic and attainable), Relevant (in line with your identity, values, and career), and Time-bound (with a clear deadline). When you jot them down, ensure they adhere to the SMART criteria, and limit them to five at most to stay focused. Regularly revisit them to monitor your progress. I recommend conducting monthly assessments, scrutinizing each goal in detail.
Here's a helpful template to guide you: https://www.ucop.edu/local-human-resources/_files/performance-appraisal/How%20to%20write%20SMART%20Goals%20v2.pdf. The SMART approach is widely recognized, so you'll find plenty of resources online. Keep exploring, and you'll master it in no time!
Alleisha Levett
Product Manager
2
Answers
Camp Hill, AL
Updated
Alleisha’s Answer
This is an excellent question. As a person who enjoys planning, one of the first things I did was identify my primary life goal and then determine the steps necessary to achieve it. I find that jotting down these steps helps me visualize my plan and how I can approach it. It's crucial for you to decide on your ultimate goal and then establish smaller, incremental goals that will lead you to your "prize". Consider setting these smaller goals in six-month, two-year, and five-year increments to guide you towards your ultimate achievement.
Xiaojie Johan Liu
Consultant
91
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Xiaojie Johan’s Answer
Hi Olivia,
I understand that navigating high school in preparation for college is tough. I think you could perhaps write down what you want to do in your career and study that major in college. I think making yourself a multi-year plan is important not for doing exactly what you have written down, but for writing your thoughts down. Perhaps you could write down your short-term goals for high school and your long-term goals for college. Long-term strategic thinking is important for coming up with a good plan for college.
Hopefully this helps. Best of luck!
Best regards,
Johan
I understand that navigating high school in preparation for college is tough. I think you could perhaps write down what you want to do in your career and study that major in college. I think making yourself a multi-year plan is important not for doing exactly what you have written down, but for writing your thoughts down. Perhaps you could write down your short-term goals for high school and your long-term goals for college. Long-term strategic thinking is important for coming up with a good plan for college.
Hopefully this helps. Best of luck!
Best regards,
Johan
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Olivia,
Formulating Goals in High School as a Stepping Stone for College
The importance of goal-setting during your high school years as a springboard for college and future endeavors cannot be overstated. Here are some practical steps to help you craft meaningful objectives that will steer you towards a prosperous future:
1. Self-Insight: Initiate your journey by introspecting on your hobbies, proficiencies, and principles. Identify your favorite subjects, activities that bring you joy, and values that resonate with you. This self-awareness will enable you to align your objectives with your passions.
2. Scholastic Objectives: Establish educational targets that push your limits yet remain attainable. Strive to uphold a specific GPA, enroll in advanced classes in areas that intrigue you, and engage in extracurricular activities that showcase your talents and dedication.
3. Professional Exploration: Investigate various career trajectories that coincide with your interests. Your internship at the animal hospital offers a fantastic chance to gain practical experience and decide if a profession in veterinary medicine or animal care aligns with your aspirations.
4. Future Objectives: Contemplate your future aspirations. Do you envision attending a particular college or embarking on a specific career path? Defining these long-term objectives can offer direction and motivation throughout your high school journey.
5. Self-Growth Objectives: Think about setting self-improvement objectives centered on cultivating vital skills like time management, communication, and problem-solving. These competencies are not only useful in college but also in your eventual career.
6. Seek Advice: Never hesitate to ask for advice from teachers, counselors, mentors, or professionals in areas that pique your interest. Their wisdom and guidance can help you refine your objectives and devise a plan to achieve them.
7. Maintain Adaptability: Keep in mind that it's perfectly normal for objectives to change as you discover more about yourself and explore various opportunities. Stay receptive and flexible to modify your objectives as necessary.
By formulating clear and attainable objectives during high school, you're not only setting yourself up for college but also cultivating valuable skills and habits that will be beneficial throughout your educational and professional journey.
Top 3 Credible References Used:
The College Board: The College Board offers a wealth of resources on college readiness, including advice on goal-setting for high school students.
U.S. Department of Education: The U.S. Department of Education provides guidance on educational goal-setting and strategies for college preparedness for high school students.
American Psychological Association (APA): The APA offers insights into the significance of goal-setting for personal growth and academic achievement among students.
These references were crucial in providing data-driven information on formulating goals in high school to effectively prepare for college.
Stay Blessed!
James Constantine Frangos.
Formulating Goals in High School as a Stepping Stone for College
The importance of goal-setting during your high school years as a springboard for college and future endeavors cannot be overstated. Here are some practical steps to help you craft meaningful objectives that will steer you towards a prosperous future:
1. Self-Insight: Initiate your journey by introspecting on your hobbies, proficiencies, and principles. Identify your favorite subjects, activities that bring you joy, and values that resonate with you. This self-awareness will enable you to align your objectives with your passions.
2. Scholastic Objectives: Establish educational targets that push your limits yet remain attainable. Strive to uphold a specific GPA, enroll in advanced classes in areas that intrigue you, and engage in extracurricular activities that showcase your talents and dedication.
3. Professional Exploration: Investigate various career trajectories that coincide with your interests. Your internship at the animal hospital offers a fantastic chance to gain practical experience and decide if a profession in veterinary medicine or animal care aligns with your aspirations.
4. Future Objectives: Contemplate your future aspirations. Do you envision attending a particular college or embarking on a specific career path? Defining these long-term objectives can offer direction and motivation throughout your high school journey.
5. Self-Growth Objectives: Think about setting self-improvement objectives centered on cultivating vital skills like time management, communication, and problem-solving. These competencies are not only useful in college but also in your eventual career.
6. Seek Advice: Never hesitate to ask for advice from teachers, counselors, mentors, or professionals in areas that pique your interest. Their wisdom and guidance can help you refine your objectives and devise a plan to achieve them.
7. Maintain Adaptability: Keep in mind that it's perfectly normal for objectives to change as you discover more about yourself and explore various opportunities. Stay receptive and flexible to modify your objectives as necessary.
By formulating clear and attainable objectives during high school, you're not only setting yourself up for college but also cultivating valuable skills and habits that will be beneficial throughout your educational and professional journey.
Top 3 Credible References Used:
The College Board: The College Board offers a wealth of resources on college readiness, including advice on goal-setting for high school students.
U.S. Department of Education: The U.S. Department of Education provides guidance on educational goal-setting and strategies for college preparedness for high school students.
American Psychological Association (APA): The APA offers insights into the significance of goal-setting for personal growth and academic achievement among students.
These references were crucial in providing data-driven information on formulating goals in high school to effectively prepare for college.
Stay Blessed!
James Constantine Frangos.
Holly Huffine
Sales
18
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Holly’s Answer
Hey there, Olivia!
Don't worry if you're finding it tough to set goals - it's completely normal, especially when you're young! A fantastic tool that can assist you in setting any kind of goal is the SMART method. This stands for:
1. Specific
2. Measurable
3. Achievable
4. Relevant
5. Time-bound
Let's take an example. Suppose you're aiming to get straight As. To make this a SMART goal, you could rephrase it to something like, "I aim to score at least 90% in all my non-AP classes this semester."
By breaking your goals down into smaller, more specific objectives that are measurable, achievable, relevant, and have a timeline, you'll find it much easier to accomplish them. And remember, it's perfectly fine if your goals seem a bit silly at first. A goal is still a goal, no matter how simple it may seem. You can always start with easy ones and gradually work your way up to more ambitious targets. You've got this, Olivia!
Don't worry if you're finding it tough to set goals - it's completely normal, especially when you're young! A fantastic tool that can assist you in setting any kind of goal is the SMART method. This stands for:
1. Specific
2. Measurable
3. Achievable
4. Relevant
5. Time-bound
Let's take an example. Suppose you're aiming to get straight As. To make this a SMART goal, you could rephrase it to something like, "I aim to score at least 90% in all my non-AP classes this semester."
By breaking your goals down into smaller, more specific objectives that are measurable, achievable, relevant, and have a timeline, you'll find it much easier to accomplish them. And remember, it's perfectly fine if your goals seem a bit silly at first. A goal is still a goal, no matter how simple it may seem. You can always start with easy ones and gradually work your way up to more ambitious targets. You've got this, Olivia!
Lisa DuBois
Digital Marketing Manager
3
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Lisa’s Answer
Hi, there...what an amazing student to be thinking about creating goals for yourself in high school to prepare for college! I have a few recommendations... First, be sure to meet with and work with your high school counselor, if possible. These folks are a great resource and can definitely help you get started. Then, after that, if you have a local college - even a community college - try to meet with an entrance advisor there. Just talking to other individuals can help spark ideas or help guide you in the right direction. Finally, talk to friends and family - it's important to think about what you are interested in and take classes in your first 1-2 years that let you explore those interests. That will lead to a passion that will lead to a career!
Houcine Lakhchach
Career Development Specialist | U.S Department exchange Alumnus | EFL/ESL trainer | Program manager
139
Answers
Kenitra, Gharb-Chrarda-Beni Hssen, Morocco
Updated
Houcine’s Answer
It's fantastic that you have opportunities and stability at such a young age. To create goals and find direction in high school, consider the following steps:
1. Self-Reflection: Take some time to reflect on your interests, passions, and what brings you fulfillment. Consider activities that genuinely excite you, whether they relate to your internship, hobbies, or personal interests.
2. Explore Career Paths: Use your internship at the animal hospital as an opportunity to explore different aspects of the field. Engage with professionals, ask questions, and gain insights into various roles within the veterinary or animal care industry.
3. Set Academic Goals: Establish academic goals that align with your interests. Identify specific subjects or areas you want to excel in and explore further. This will provide a clearer sense of purpose in your coursework.
4. College and Career Research: Research potential college majors and career paths related to your interests. Attend career fairs, college events, or informational interviews to gain insights into different fields.
5. Networking: Build a network of professionals, mentors, and peers who can provide guidance. Connect with people in industries you find intriguing, and seek advice on potential career paths.
6. Short-Term and Long-Term Goals: Develop both short-term and long-term goals. Short-term goals can include achieving specific grades, gaining additional skills, or completing a project. Long-term goals can involve choosing a college major, securing a specific internship, or entering a particular career.
7. Seek Guidance: Talk to teachers, counselors, or professionals in your network for guidance. They can offer valuable insights, help you refine your goals, and provide support in navigating your academic and career path.
Remember, it's okay if your goals evolve over time. The key is to take proactive steps, stay curious, and use your high school years to explore and shape your interests. As you gain clarity, your academic work will likely become more meaningful, knowing it contributes to your broader goals.
1. Self-Reflection: Take some time to reflect on your interests, passions, and what brings you fulfillment. Consider activities that genuinely excite you, whether they relate to your internship, hobbies, or personal interests.
2. Explore Career Paths: Use your internship at the animal hospital as an opportunity to explore different aspects of the field. Engage with professionals, ask questions, and gain insights into various roles within the veterinary or animal care industry.
3. Set Academic Goals: Establish academic goals that align with your interests. Identify specific subjects or areas you want to excel in and explore further. This will provide a clearer sense of purpose in your coursework.
4. College and Career Research: Research potential college majors and career paths related to your interests. Attend career fairs, college events, or informational interviews to gain insights into different fields.
5. Networking: Build a network of professionals, mentors, and peers who can provide guidance. Connect with people in industries you find intriguing, and seek advice on potential career paths.
6. Short-Term and Long-Term Goals: Develop both short-term and long-term goals. Short-term goals can include achieving specific grades, gaining additional skills, or completing a project. Long-term goals can involve choosing a college major, securing a specific internship, or entering a particular career.
7. Seek Guidance: Talk to teachers, counselors, or professionals in your network for guidance. They can offer valuable insights, help you refine your goals, and provide support in navigating your academic and career path.
Remember, it's okay if your goals evolve over time. The key is to take proactive steps, stay curious, and use your high school years to explore and shape your interests. As you gain clarity, your academic work will likely become more meaningful, knowing it contributes to your broader goals.
Mark Anthony Cimabue
Ecommerce
9
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Mark Anthony’s Answer
To achieve your target, it's crucial to make it precise and well-outlined. You stand a higher chance of hitting your mark if it's crystal clear and not fuzzy. For instance, don't just aim to improve your grades this year. Instead, specify the exact grades you want to hit in each subject.