1.
If I have chosen to take the College University Prep Course of Study,
do I have to choose a pathway? If so, why?
While it is totally not necessary for graduation, it is highly encouraged
to select a pathway just in case something happens. We think of it
as a safety net. For example, if you have taken 3 math courses and
are on the 4th required math course, and you happen not to pass it,
you will not graduate. Reasoning: You would not have completed a course
of study successfully.
2. Why do I even need to go to school
after high school?
You really don’t; but, a high school diploma
is no longer the ticket to a good paying job. The changing job market
requires employees with advanced technical, communication and problem-solving
skills. So to enjoy a decent lifestyle
with a decent paying job, additional training
is required.
3. What if I choose the College
Tech Prep course of study and then decide to go to a four-year college?
If you choose to do this during your sophomore year you should be
okay. However, after that you are pretty much locked in to the College
Tech Prep course of study. Flip-flopping or continuing to change your
mind is not a good idea.
4. I am interested in the Arts and I do not want to take all that
technical stuff. Which course of study would I choose?
That depends. If you want to go to a four-year college and study dance
or music, then you need to select the College/ University Prep Course
of Study. Your Art classes would count as electives. Please make sure
that you fulfill the other requirements for this specific
course of study.
5. Give me some statistics so I know what you’re telling me
is not just junk. The percentage of jobs that
will require a four-year bachelor’s degree is 23 %. Jobs not
requiring a four-year degree, are 77%. This includes all jobs requiring
an associate’s degree, post-secondary vocational training, work
experience in a related occupation, long-term on-the-job training,
moderate-term on-the-job training, or short-term on-the-job training.
(Bureau of Labor Statistics, Last modified Wednesday, February 9,
2000, URL: /news.release/ ecopro.t04.htm) The College Board estimates
that college graduates earn an average of 81% more than those with
only a high school diploma. (1999 Survey Working in America) Between
2010 and 2030, the number of Americans above the age of 65 is expected
to grow by 75% to over 69 million. Health Care will become a primary
concern as America ages. Therefore, approximately one-half of the
fastest growing occupations are related to health care. (It’s
2010 ... Trends in Workforce Development, DPI, Raleigh, NC 2000)
6.
What happens if, after I have completed the interest inventories and
other tests, I still don’t know what I want to do?
Talk to your guidance counselor or see one of the career counselors
for information on possible internships/ apprenticeships. These opportunities
will give you a brief look into different areas. That might help you
narrow your focus. Don’t feel bad; it is estimated that most
workers will change jobs at least seven times in their lifetime.
7. I am interested in going into
an Engineering career. Which Course of Study do I need to sign up
for and what are some recommended classes? Please
follow the College/University Course of Study and take some drafting
classes as your electives.
8. Is Chemistry a good class to
take if I want to enter the Health Care profession? Yes,
chemistry is a great class to take and, in addition to electives in
the Health Science pathway, you may want to take anatomy and other
higher level math and science classes.
9. What if I am interested in ROTC?
ROTC classes are available at each high school and are a good way
to explore military careers. The Career Course of Study highlights
ROTC classes and allows students to graduate.
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