Make it Count

Often times when we think of high school we think sports, friends and school work. All of this is true to a degree, but there is more to high school. I know this, college admissions know this and employers know this and now so do you.
Now that I know, what should I do? I’m so glad that you asked! High school is the time to EXPLORE, LEARN, MAKE MISTAKES and then repeat the process all over again. 

You should use this time to explore careers, colleges and personal interests. One way to explore a career is to have an informational interview with someone working in the field that you are interested in. Simply contact them via telephone or email, preferably by telephone and schedule a meeting.  Be sure to do research on the individual and the company first. Always ask questions that cannot be answered via Google or the company’s website. After the interview send a thank you note and ask if they can refer you to someone else in the field if you are interested in the field or suggest another individual in a different field that requires some of the major skills or subjects you are interested in pursuing such as math, science, language and so forth.
 Please be advised though some people will say no to the interview or no to a referral and that’s ok, just ask someone else. 
Join a club or play sports, you will learn how to work with a team, enhance leadership skills, learn about competition, indulge in your favorite pass time as well as be able to make new friends and connections when you travel for competitions or events.  In addition to clubs and groups you can volunteer for school activities like being a teacher’s assistant or being a part of a peer initiative like reading to elementary students. 
You may be thinking all of this is well and fine, but my school or community doesn’t offer a lot in the way of exploration. If this is the case, find a group of likeminded people (1-2) and an adult to help you bring your dreams and ideas to fruition.  Taking on this kind of initiative will not only highlight your leadership skills, but it will give colleges and employers a reason to look at your application a little longer. 
No matter which route you choose, ask questions and soak up all of the information that you possibly can.
The most important thing to remember is start early. Waiting until senior year to explore, learn, make mistakes and repeat is too late! Utilize your 9th grade year to get your footing so that your senior year solidifies all of your experiences and ensures you are on the path to success.