The transition from high school to post-secondary life is one of the most pivotal moments in a young person’s life. For some, it can be anxiety inducing and overwhelming. As parents it is important to do what we can to help our children navigate this transition by supporting college and career readiness education (CCR). CCR is a comprehensive approach focused on cultivating the essential knowledge, skills and mindsets students need to thrive in the next phase of their lives; it’s about making sure that students are truly prepared for whatever comes next—whether it is college, vocational school, military service or direct entry into the workforce.
When it comes to preparing our students for the future, there are two main pillars of CCR. Of course, much emphasis is placed on academic preparation. Though academic success certainly includes proficiency in core school subjects, preparing students for the future is also about competencies like information literacy, time management and study skills. Subject knowledge alone does not make a student grow into a good leader or colleague; students must be adept in these other areas as well.
While academic performance is important, the other equally essential pillar of CCR is soft skills development. Soft skills include what are commonly referred to as the “five cs:” creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, communication and citizenship. Soft skills can include others, such as adaptability and emotional intelligence too. Supporting the development of these skills can help students become resilient, confident, thriving adults.
So how do we prepare our students for a successful future? The tips below highlight key ways we can guide and support students through their college and career readiness journey.
Explore, explore, explore.
Promoting career exploration can turn, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” from a daunting question into an exciting discovery. Many high school students have access to career pathway programs in school. Take advantage of this opportunity if it’s available, particularly if a student knows what they might want to do for a career.
Job shadowing or internships are also a great way to let students see “a day in the life” in a career. Even if it’s just for one day, it can provide insight; a student learning what they don’t want to do is useful information too!
Virtual and Digital Tools can be great resources. Tests like the RAISEC can help students explore skills and interests. The sites O*Net, My Next Move and Ohio Means Jobs offer information on specific careers, including details like daily duties, salary range, likelihood of the job existing in the future and even short videos that offer testimonials from employees working in the field.
Promote soft skills
Soft skills are extremely important to be successful in the workforce, and the need for employees that are problem-solvers and creative thinkers is significant. Encourage critical thinking by asking your child to explain their reasoning, encouraging them to think about different perspectives and asking open-ended questions.
It’s natural to want to solve problems for our children, but allowing them to problem solve develops confidence and promotes creative thinking. Allowing them to communicate on their own with teachers, professionals and in other settings also helps them become proficient communicators.
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Practical skill building
Remember home ec.? Laundry, nutrition, budgeting, financial literacy… These skills cannot be understated.
Helping students to manage their time by teaching prioritization will help them manage academic and, later, professional workloads. According to LinkedIn and HubSpot, 70-80% of jobs are secured through networking. Networking is another skill that is extremely important for future readiness and one that can be easily taught. Have your student map out their network—really think through this. Who are the teachers, coaches, family members and neighbors that can offer support or help make connections? Help them write a script: what could they say to this person to help them make a connection, or secure a job interview? When it comes to future readiness, practical skills can help give students a strong foundation.
As we support students in their transition from high school to adulthood, our goal is not just to prepare them for college and careers, but to equip them to thrive in the future—whatever path they choose.
