In ninth grade did you know what you wanted to be when you grew up? Most students don’t, but they have begun to think about it. The ninth grade Career Research and Decision Making course encourages students to explore possible answers to that question. This course will also help students transition into high school and begin to think about life after graduation.

During this course students will focus on who they are, what they want to do, and how they can get there. Students will reflect on their learning styles, leadership styles, and interests. They will refine their skills of time management, organization, public speaking, note taking and other skills important to student success. They will investigate career fields that are matched with their interests. This study will include job responsibilities, postsecondary education requirements, and job outlook. In addition, students will learn how to write a resume, search for a job, and participate in an interview. After they have identified potential career fields, students will research the postsecondary education necessary for their desired career, including the institutions offering the training/degree program, registration requirements, the application process, financial aid, and scholarships. Finally, student will develop financial literacy skills by considering the costs associated with the life they have imagined.
When students have a clearer picture of life after high school, they will be better prepared to plan their life in high school. The activities in this course will help students organize the courses they will take while in high school. This will show students a clear connection between their high school courses and plans for adult life.

High schools in Brevard County have so many exciting programs and opportunities for students. This course will insure that all students have an opportunity to know what is available and get the most out of their high school experience. Upon completion of this course, students will see the relevance of their high school studies and will be better prepared to plan the next four years of their education and beyond.

Career Research and Decision Making is a critical piece of the College and Career Readiness initiative. This course will help insure that every student will graduate from high school prepared to enter and be successful in the workplace, in further career education, and/or in postsecondary degree opportunities. By giving all students the tools needed to achieve this goal, just imagine the possibilities!

Destiny is no matter of chance. It is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved.
William Jennings Bryan