5 Ways to Help Students in Their Final Year in High School
The final year of school can be overwhelming for students as there is tension between wanting to be independent in deciding the course of their own lives and needing guidance from those who have gone before them. How does one decide his or her career path at a tender age of 17?
Throughout this final year, it is imperative for adults to help students navigate the flurry of information, peer pressure and looming examination stress by equipping and empowering them to make good choices.
01
Help students to identify their skills and interests
Not all students are aware of their talents, skills and interests. Having one-on-one counselling sessions or going through personality tests can help them become more aware of their abilities, interests and strengths. This exercise also gives them more confidence in their identities and empowers them to make good choices that contribute to their growth.
Personality tests like 16 Personalities, Typefinder Personality Test, or Career Personality Profiler can be useful to start conversations about the future.
02
Increase their financial awareness
When students are made aware of their financial situation, they are able to take it into account while they consider their options. As education can be costly depending on the course that you choose, students who need financial aid can prepare themselves to apply or work towards getting a scholarship.
Knowing this earlier can also give students a longer runway to prepare for a future that they desire; be it to study a little harder for a scholarship, try to meet the requirements for a student loan, or approach potential sponsors.
03
Offer career design workshops or courses
Career courses or workshops can help students understand the world beyond school and ensure a smoother transition to college or work. It can help them have a better idea of how the working world is like for the career of their choosing.
Career design workshops can also equip students with the tools to identify what they need to do in order to achieve their ‘dream job’.
Get a free demo of the WIT</FONT COLOR>GRIT</FONT COLOR>FIT</FONT COLOR> Workshop here.
04
Support and assist students for college admission
The application processes for some colleges or financial aid can be arduous for students, especially if they have had no experience dealing with so many application forms in their lives. Having a helpline or ‘Career centre’ at the school can create an avenue for students to reach out for help and get the support they need.
05
Build confidence and independence
The transition to college can be unnerving as college students are expected to take ownership of their learning, complete assignments and study with little to no prompting from professors. Some students move away from home and are expected to be independent almost overnight.
Adults can alleviate some of the stress by preparing students and letting them know what to expect. Schools can help students envision life in college, develop a growth mindset and prepare them to take on more responsibilities. Parents can simulate life in college and train their children to take on certain tasks in the home.
Exposure to life in college and work can also be done through talks, workshops, alumni interviews or counselling sessions.
As students work towards their college aspirations and design their career paths, schools and parents have a role to play in helping them manage expectations and equipping them with the skills and knowledge to navigate the ever-changing world of careers.
