Getting Ready for College & Careers
A Handbook for Grades 9-12

The handbook has been broken down by individual chapters for easier viewing in Adobe PDF format. Click here to download a free copy of Adobe Reader.

Getting Started
Get the facts about high school and what comes after.

Step 1: Discover Yourself
Discover your strengths, weaknesses, abilities and interests, and find out how they can help you get ready for the future.

Step 2: Explore Your Options
Explore types of colleges, degrees, and careers. Learn how to research your career and college options and compare the ones that interest you.

Step 3: Set Goals
Learn to set SMART career and academic goals.

Step 4: Develop an Action Plan
See what colleges really want and plan to meet the requirements. Create your own high school road map with school and community activities, tests and awards.

Step 5: Making It Happen
Learn more about the admissions process and what happens to your college application. Find out how you can get the best possible letters of recommendation and write a great personal statement.

Finance Your Future
Uncover the not-so-secret world of financial aid. Learn how you can pay for college and apply for aid.

Toolbox Additions
Build your own college toolbox. Get advice on special issues. Find out what questions you should ask before choosing a college.

College and Career Vocabulary

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Complete Handbook (PDF)