As you near the end of high school, it’s amazing (and maybe the teensiest bit stressful) how many opportunities you have on the horizon. University, college, work, entrepreneurship...the choice is yours!
But no matter what you choose or when you start your post-grad adventure, now is the time to make sure you’re set up for success – to get in and get the most out of the season ahead.
We’ve curated a few things you’ll want to keep in mind as you get ready to pick next year’s courses if university is on the table.
This likely goes without saying, but this is the time to ask questions. You won't sound silly and you don’t have too many. Your school’s guidance counsellors and student success advisors love connecting with students and are experts in what universities are looking for. Not only will they have a lot of the answers you’re looking for, but they can help connect you directly with recruitment and admissions staff at the universities (or colleges) you’re most interested in.
And don’t forget to do your own first-hand research, too. Explore university websites to see what programs are most exciting to you and what it takes to get in (without even having to setup a meeting). Most schools’ websites show which high school courses each program requires and what grades you should be aiming for to stay competitive. Plus, they’ll probably have webinars and events for high school students like you.
When it comes to your core courses, like English, Math and Science, you may want to keep your options open by taking academic or university-level courses wherever possible. If your goal is to get into university, these will likely be required. If academic-level courses aren’t a good fit, there are plenty of excellent career prospects that can come out of college studies or apprenticeships – it’s just important you know the differences and take the course level that is best suited to your future goals.
As far as electives go, these are a perfect opportunity to show university admissions teams what you’re interested in and diversify your interests! From music and drama to sports and science to leadership and languages, there’s no such thing as a “wrong” elective if it helps show who you are and who you are becoming.
Plus, research shows you’re more likely to earn better grades in courses you’re excited about – ones where homework doesn’t feel like a chore. This applies to the university program you pick, too. If you choose something that opens the door to great career prospects but that also inspires and excites you, you’re much more likely to excel and enjoy the journey.
Your education journey doesn’t have to be traditional or linear. In postsecondary education, we talk a lot about “pathways” to describe the different ways you can get from point A (high school) to point B (your dream career). You could choose to go the college route then later transfer to university. Or vice versa. Many universities and colleges even have partnerships and pathway agreements specifically designed to allow you to get both a university and college experience all in the span of four years. Just know that even though there are “direct” pathways, yours doesn’t have to be.
With all this in mind, it’s a good idea to start by thinking of your end goal and working your way backwards:
Stuck on the first question? Not sure what career will really be a good fit for you? Each of ³Ô¹ÏÍø's more than 100 include sample career options, graduate testimonials, and so much more.
