Counselor’s Corner
by AMY SCOTT
Do you know what your student wants to be when they graduate high school? If not, or even if so, do you know how to help them get to that next step?
I teach a career preparation class for students who have learning, cognitive and physical disabilities. I love helping that light bulb come on when they discover a pathway that utilizes their passions, talents and abilities. Here are some of the steps I take and you can too.
One place to start helping your students gain a bigger picture of the next step is this fun, interactive website: http://www.cdr.state.tx.us/realitycheck/. It helps students see what salary or type of job they would need in order to sustain the lifestyle they hope to have in the future.
Next, help them brainstorm about what they are good at and what do they like to do. Do they like to take things apart and put them back together? Do they love creating art whether it be writing, drawing, acting or singing? Are they super friendly and have never met a stranger? All of these skills can be used in a future career.
Have your student do a career assessment: http://www.colorwize.com and http://www.funeducation.com. These two sites are geared toward high school students, but you may want to be close by to answer any questions.
The next step could be a “job shadow” with someone who works in a career that interests them. Ask your child questions such as: Could you start your own business selling jewelry or artwork and what would that take? Are you going to need further education to obtain this career? Is there a part-time job that could help prepare you for working in the future? Can you start volunteering to help build your resume and develop work skills? All of these are steps that your student could start with right now.
I have created a website http://preparingforlife.weebly.com that can help provide some answers to these questions. There are people on all of the campuses who love to help you and your student on their career pathway. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or ask for suggestions. We are here to help your student’s next step to success.
