Back to School: Explore Your Options

As you head into senior year, make sure you’re clear on where you’re headed and what it will take to get there. Take time to explore your options, revisit your goals, and start organizing the applications, deadlines, and opportunities ahead.

• Explore colleges, universities, career training programs, apprenticeships, military branches, and workforce opportunities.
• Schedule college visits, attend career fairs, or connect with military recruiters.
• Research application, enrollment, or enlistment requirements and important deadlines.
• Register for the ACT or SAT if required for your plans.
• Begin drafting your college application essay if you’re applying to college.
• Create a planner or calendar to keep track of deadlines and important dates.
• Meet with your I Know I Can advisor to talk through your plans and next steps.

Fall: Put Your Plan Into Action

Fall is one of the busiest seasons of senior year. Staying organized now will help you meet important deadlines and keep your plans for after graduation on track.

If You’re Attending College

• Apply to colleges and universities.
• Request your high school transcript.
• Request letters of recommendation.
• Create your applicant portals and check them regularly.
• Complete your FAFSA when it opens.
• Start applying for scholarships.
• Keep track of application deadlines and required materials.

If You’re Pursuing a Career

• Build or update your resume.
• Explore jobs and career pathways that match your interests and skills.
• Practice interviewing.
• Attend career fairs and hiring events.
• Research apprenticeships, training programs, and other workforce opportunities.
• Learn about application requirements and deadlines.

If You’re Pursuing the Military

• Meet with a military recruiter.
• Explore career opportunities within different military branches.
• Learn about enlistment requirements and timelines.
• Prepare for required testing.
• Complete required paperwork and other next steps.

If You’re Pursuing an Apprenticeship or Training Program

• Research apprenticeship and training opportunities.
• Learn about application requirements and deadlines.
• Connect with training providers and employers.
• Submit applications when appropriate.
• Explore how your training can prepare you for a career.

Winter: Keep the Momentum Going

As your plans for after graduation begin taking shape, use the winter months to stay organized, complete remaining requirements, and continue working toward your goals.

• Finish any remaining college, training, or program applications.
• Continue applying for scholarships and grants.
• Monitor your email and applicant portals for updates and next steps.
• Complete any requested financial aid documents.
• Retake the ACT or SAT if needed for your plans.
• Continue applying for jobs, apprenticeships, or military opportunities.
• Follow up on applications and opportunities.
• Meet with your I Know I Can advisor to review your progress and next steps.

Spring: Finalize Your Next Move

Spring is all about finalizing your plans and getting ready for what’s next. Whether you’ve received college acceptances, are searching for your first job, preparing for military service, or starting an apprenticeship, now is the time to make sure you’re ready for your next step.

• If You’re Attending College

  • Compare your financial aid offers.
  • Review your options with an I Know I Can advisor.
  • Visit campuses again if needed.
  • Review your admission and financial aid information carefully.
  • Accept your admission offer by the college’s deadline.
  • Complete housing and orientation requirements.
  • Register for classes when appropriate.

  If You’re Pursuing a Career

  • Continue searching and applying for employment opportunities.
  • Follow up on submitted applications and interviews.
  • Update your resume with new experiences and accomplishments.
  • Practice interviewing and prepare professional references.
  • Attend hiring events or connect with local employers.
  • Review job offers carefully, including pay, benefits, and work schedules.
  • If you accept a position, complete onboarding requirements and prepare for your first day.

  If You’re Joining the Military

  • Finalize enlistment paperwork.
  • Complete required testing or training.
  • Stay in communication with your recruiter.
  • Prepare for your transition into military service.
  • Make a plan for your responsibilities and next steps before leaving for training.

  If You’re Beginning an Apprenticeship or Training Program

  • Confirm your enrollment.
  • Complete any onboarding requirements.
  • Review your training schedule and expectations.
  • Connect with your training provider or employer.
  • Make plans for transportation, work schedules, and other logistics.