Getting Experience

As you look for a job always think in terms of working on projects, practicing skills, or getting experience in a specific career field. Money should not be the major reason to take a job. The best way to decide on a career is to get exposure to that career. For example, if you think a career in medicine is what you want to pursue, volunteer in a hospital so you can observe doctors at work.

In planning your classes take full advantage of educational resources available at your high school. For example, the aspiring actor would join the drama club and try to act in as many plays as possible. The aspiring engineer would enroll in a calculus class to advance his math.

Another method of gaining experience is to enter scholarship programs like ThinkQuest. The student not only has the possibility of winner money for college but also learns how to design and produce a webpage with a team. Many companies offer career scholarship opportunities for students interested in various careers.

Mentorships

Mentorship programs offer great opportunities for students. Many mentorship programs offer high school credits for working with a mentor. Generally, students do not get paid but are rewarded by being recognized in their records as completing a mentorship program. Working with a mentor in a career you would like to pursue gives you real experience in the field. A mentor can also give advise about the particular career you intend entering. A student can also make contacts with professionals in his prospective field. In fact many mentorship students return to their mentors after graduation and are offered jobs.

Students should check with their high school counselors for mentorship programs. Also a student can find a mentor by approaching a professional in his career interest. Many professionals are very interested in help young people.