Have you found yourself struggling to plan where you want to go after high school? Whether that means college, trade school, the military, or entering the workforce, there is something out there for everyone.
This article is meant to be a resource you can look back on— a checklist to follow and a guide to help you plan your high school classes and your future education. Here at Amityville Memorial High School, there are many opportunities to ensure that your education stays on track. You can use resources such as articles in The Amityville Echo, guidance counselors, teachers, and career-planning courses.
Most students are encouraged to take an active role in planning their future because the school system does not automatically know what you want to do. Many students reading this article may not know yet either—and that’s okay. My advice is simple: start early. If you haven’t started planning yet, it’s never too late.
In this article, I will cover:
- Where to start your planning
- Finding your passion and career path
- How to plan your classes according to your career goals
- People you should contact for further information
- Advice from trusted staff members in the building
- What AMHS offers in terms of career-planning opportunities
Finding Your Passion
The first step in planning for your future is finding your passion—or at least beginning the search for it.
For some students, this comes naturally. For others, it can be difficult. A good place to start is by thinking about activities you enjoy. Maybe it’s a hobby, a favorite class, a club, or even something you’ve only tried once or twice. These interests can often lead you toward a career path you never considered before.
College and Career Planning teacher Lesia Milan suggests:
“Completing an Interest Profiler from the Department of Labor. Reflect on what you love to do and where your passion lies, because if you can find a career doing what you love, it’s not work and you will have a happy and rewarding life.”
Beyond her professional experience, this advice highlights the importance of taking time to explore your interests. When you enjoy what you’re doing, your work feels more meaningful and rewarding.
Planning Your Classes
When asked about when students should begin planning their classes according to their future career goals, Lesia Milan stated:
“Students should begin thinking about their high school course plans in 7th or 8th grade. Doing so allows them to maximize their 9th–12th grade years by taking the required classes for graduation, as well as Advanced Placement (AP) or other advanced courses. These classes can help earn college credit, save money on tuition, and strengthen both transcripts and resumes. It’s important to speak with your guidance counselor and teachers to determine the best course options for your goals, since certain classes are required for graduation and must be planned carefully.”
While many students may not know exactly what they want to do in 7th or 8th grade, getting an early start can make a huge difference. Planning ahead gives students more flexibility during their sophomore, junior, and senior years and helps ensure they are taking courses that align with their future goals.
Who Can Help?
At AMHS, there are many staff members available to help students explore college and career options.
These resources include:
- Lesia Milan
- School guidance counselors
- Classroom teachers
- College admissions representatives
- Family members
- Current college students and alumni
Sometimes a teacher may have studied in the same field you’re interested in pursuing and can provide valuable advice and insight.
According to Ms. Milan:
“Aside from me, students should speak with their school guidance counselor, as they are experts in graduation requirements, college applications, scholarships, and planning a strong high school schedule. It is also helpful to talk with teachers, who can offer advice about courses, write letters of recommendation, and share insights about different academic paths. Additionally, students may benefit from speaking with college admissions representatives, family members, and current college students or alumni who can share their personal experiences and guidance about the college process.”
There are many important factors involved in planning for life after high school. If you’re someone who has not started planning yet, reaching out to people with experience can make the process much easier.
Final Thoughts
No matter what path you choose after high school, the most important thing is to start exploring your options early. Whether you’re interested in college, trade school, military service, or entering the workforce, AMHS offers resources and support to help you succeed.
Take advantage of the people around you, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to explore different opportunities. The future may seem far away, but the choices you make today can help shape the opportunities you have tomorrow.
