4 answers
Alaric
Student
Havertown, Pennsylvania
5
Questions
Asked
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Is changing my schedule worth it for technical school ?
My school offers a program where juniors and seniors can apply to leave for their first two blocks to go to technical school. They earn four elective credits per year for this and can even earn college credit. They still have to earn enough credits to graduate, so sacrifices have to be made. In my case I would like to apply for their engineering and robotics program. Since I’ll only have two classes a day, I won’t be able to take a lot of the classes I want to. These are AP Calc C (I can take BC the previous year instead of AB), two additional years of French (including French 4 and AP), two years of band (I’ve been doing band since fourth grade; I play seven instruments), AP Comp Sci A, AP Chem (I’ve loved chemistry since third grade), and AP Psych. Will this look bad for college? Is it worth it?
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4 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6130
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Alaric,
Response:
Should I adjust my schedule for a technical school?
The decision to modify your timetable to fit in a technical school program is a crucial one that calls for a thoughtful analysis of numerous elements. For you, the chance to partake in an engineering and robotics program at a technical school brings both opportunities and hurdles. Let's dissect the main points to ponder:
Advantages of a Technical School Program:
Targeted Education: Enrolling in a technical school can offer you targeted instruction in engineering and robotics, something your current high school might not provide.
Practical Learning: Technical programs usually deliver practical learning experiences, equipping you better for a career in STEM disciplines.
College Credits: Gaining college credits through the technical school program can propel you ahead in your higher education path.
Effect on High School Timetable:
Limited Course Choices: By allocating two blocks each day to the technical school, you'll have less room in your schedule for other classes like AP Calculus, extra years of French, band, AP Computer Science, AP Chemistry, and AP Psychology.
Graduation Requirements: It's crucial to verify that attending the technical school program won't hinder you from earning the necessary credits to graduate from high school.
College Admissions Factors:
Academic Intensity vs. Specialization: Colleges appreciate both academic intensity and specialization in certain areas. While advanced courses like AP classes are advantageous, showcasing a robust interest and talent in engineering and robotics can also impress admissions officers.
Extracurricular Involvement: Your participation in band and proficiency in several instruments demonstrate your commitment and skill beyond academics, which colleges also take into account.
Personal Aspirations and Interests:
Enthusiasm for Engineering and Robotics: If your heart is set on engineering and robotics, this technical school opportunity may better align with your long-term aspirations.
Prioritizing Interests: Reflect on the significance of each of the classes you might have to forgo, both personally and academically.
To sum up, the worthiness of adjusting your schedule for the technical school program hinges on your unique priorities, goals, and interests. While there might be compromises in terms of course choices at your high school, the targeted education and potential college credits from the technical program could be advantageous for your future academic and career paths.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used for this Response:
College Board: The College Board offers valuable insights on college admissions criteria, including the significance of academic intensity and extracurricular activities.
National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC): NACAC provides guidance on how colleges assess applicants based on their course choices, extracurricular participation, and specialized interests.
U.S. Department of Education: The U.S. Department of Education's resources on career and technical education programs offer evidence-based perspectives on the advantages of technical schools for students interested in STEM disciplines.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
Response:
Should I adjust my schedule for a technical school?
The decision to modify your timetable to fit in a technical school program is a crucial one that calls for a thoughtful analysis of numerous elements. For you, the chance to partake in an engineering and robotics program at a technical school brings both opportunities and hurdles. Let's dissect the main points to ponder:
Advantages of a Technical School Program:
Targeted Education: Enrolling in a technical school can offer you targeted instruction in engineering and robotics, something your current high school might not provide.
Practical Learning: Technical programs usually deliver practical learning experiences, equipping you better for a career in STEM disciplines.
College Credits: Gaining college credits through the technical school program can propel you ahead in your higher education path.
Effect on High School Timetable:
Limited Course Choices: By allocating two blocks each day to the technical school, you'll have less room in your schedule for other classes like AP Calculus, extra years of French, band, AP Computer Science, AP Chemistry, and AP Psychology.
Graduation Requirements: It's crucial to verify that attending the technical school program won't hinder you from earning the necessary credits to graduate from high school.
College Admissions Factors:
Academic Intensity vs. Specialization: Colleges appreciate both academic intensity and specialization in certain areas. While advanced courses like AP classes are advantageous, showcasing a robust interest and talent in engineering and robotics can also impress admissions officers.
Extracurricular Involvement: Your participation in band and proficiency in several instruments demonstrate your commitment and skill beyond academics, which colleges also take into account.
Personal Aspirations and Interests:
Enthusiasm for Engineering and Robotics: If your heart is set on engineering and robotics, this technical school opportunity may better align with your long-term aspirations.
Prioritizing Interests: Reflect on the significance of each of the classes you might have to forgo, both personally and academically.
To sum up, the worthiness of adjusting your schedule for the technical school program hinges on your unique priorities, goals, and interests. While there might be compromises in terms of course choices at your high school, the targeted education and potential college credits from the technical program could be advantageous for your future academic and career paths.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used for this Response:
College Board: The College Board offers valuable insights on college admissions criteria, including the significance of academic intensity and extracurricular activities.
National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC): NACAC provides guidance on how colleges assess applicants based on their course choices, extracurricular participation, and specialized interests.
U.S. Department of Education: The U.S. Department of Education's resources on career and technical education programs offer evidence-based perspectives on the advantages of technical schools for students interested in STEM disciplines.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
Thank you so much for the advice.
Alaric
Carlos Segovia Perez
Consulting
10
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Carlos’s Answer
Hi Alaric,
I think you should do what you are comfortable doing. It certainly will not look bad for college if you decided to go to technical school. I think it will actually help you since it sounds like you will have practical experience. Colleges look for diverse skills set, so having some engeering and robotics experiences will definitely make you a more marketable candidate for college.
Hope this helps!
I think you should do what you are comfortable doing. It certainly will not look bad for college if you decided to go to technical school. I think it will actually help you since it sounds like you will have practical experience. Colleges look for diverse skills set, so having some engeering and robotics experiences will definitely make you a more marketable candidate for college.
Hope this helps!
Thank you for taking the time to help.
Alaric
Valerie Mosher
Project Management
12
Answers
Kansas City, Kansas
Updated
Valerie’s Answer
Absolutely, seize the opportunity. It's always beneficial to delve into your career interests sooner rather than later, especially if it's more affordable than a 4-year university course. Many individuals enter university with a clear vision of their future, only to realize after their initial classes that their chosen path isn't what they expected.
So, use this period to discover your true passions. Find out what truly ignites your enthusiasm.
So, use this period to discover your true passions. Find out what truly ignites your enthusiasm.
Gina Cabrera
EC
130
Answers
Hernando, Florida
Updated
Gina’s Answer
Deciding whether to change your schedule for technical school ultimately depends on your individual goals and priorities. Here are some factors to consider when making this decision:
1. Relevance to Your Career Goals: If the engineering and robotics program aligns with your career aspirations and provides valuable skills and knowledge for your desired field, it may be worth considering. Technical school can offer hands-on experience and specialized training that can be advantageous for certain career paths.
2. College Admissions: Colleges generally value a well-rounded education, including a variety of academic subjects and extracurricular activities. However, they also appreciate students who pursue their passions and demonstrate a commitment to their chosen field. If the technical school program is directly related to your intended major or career path, it can be seen as a valuable experience.
3. College Credit and Elective Credits: Earning college credit and elective credits through the technical school program can be advantageous. It can potentially save you time and money in college by allowing you to fulfill certain requirements or prerequisites early on. Additionally, the specialized skills and knowledge gained from the program can enhance your college application.
4. Balancing Priorities: Consider how the technical school program will impact your ability to pursue other interests and activities. If you have a strong passion for subjects like AP Calculus, French, band, or other AP courses, you may need to weigh the value of those experiences against the benefits of the technical school program. It's important to find a balance that allows you to pursue your interests while also gaining valuable skills and experiences.
5. Alternative Opportunities: Explore alternative ways to pursue your interests outside of the traditional school schedule. For example, you could consider taking online courses, participating in summer programs, or joining community organizations related to your areas of interest. These experiences can still demonstrate your dedication and passion to colleges.
Ultimately, colleges value a combination of academic rigor, extracurricular involvement, and personal growth. If the technical school program aligns with your career goals and provides valuable experiences, it can be a worthwhile choice. However, it's important to carefully consider the trade-offs and find a balance that allows you to pursue your interests and meet college admissions requirements. Consulting with your school counselor or college admissions advisor can provide additional guidance tailored to your specific situation.
1. Relevance to Your Career Goals: If the engineering and robotics program aligns with your career aspirations and provides valuable skills and knowledge for your desired field, it may be worth considering. Technical school can offer hands-on experience and specialized training that can be advantageous for certain career paths.
2. College Admissions: Colleges generally value a well-rounded education, including a variety of academic subjects and extracurricular activities. However, they also appreciate students who pursue their passions and demonstrate a commitment to their chosen field. If the technical school program is directly related to your intended major or career path, it can be seen as a valuable experience.
3. College Credit and Elective Credits: Earning college credit and elective credits through the technical school program can be advantageous. It can potentially save you time and money in college by allowing you to fulfill certain requirements or prerequisites early on. Additionally, the specialized skills and knowledge gained from the program can enhance your college application.
4. Balancing Priorities: Consider how the technical school program will impact your ability to pursue other interests and activities. If you have a strong passion for subjects like AP Calculus, French, band, or other AP courses, you may need to weigh the value of those experiences against the benefits of the technical school program. It's important to find a balance that allows you to pursue your interests while also gaining valuable skills and experiences.
5. Alternative Opportunities: Explore alternative ways to pursue your interests outside of the traditional school schedule. For example, you could consider taking online courses, participating in summer programs, or joining community organizations related to your areas of interest. These experiences can still demonstrate your dedication and passion to colleges.
Ultimately, colleges value a combination of academic rigor, extracurricular involvement, and personal growth. If the technical school program aligns with your career goals and provides valuable experiences, it can be a worthwhile choice. However, it's important to carefully consider the trade-offs and find a balance that allows you to pursue your interests and meet college admissions requirements. Consulting with your school counselor or college admissions advisor can provide additional guidance tailored to your specific situation.