Overview
This guided plan helps you reflect on your current status, explore admission requirements, and map out steps toward your dream career.
1. Where you stand now: grades, rank, and GPA
How to assess: gather your transcripts, calculate your GPA, and note your class rank if available. Compare with what your top school or program typically requires. If the answer is "not yet," you can still plan improvements.
- Get a copy of your most recent transcript and unofficial GPA, including weighted vs. unweighted if applicable.
- List your required and elective courses remaining before graduation.
- Estimate whether you would meet typical admission needs for your top choice. If not, identify concrete steps to raise your GPA and meet prereqs (see next section).
2. If graduating this year: would you be accepted to your school of choice?
Admission often depends on more than GPA. Many trade/apprentice programs value motivation, reliability, math basics, and readiness to learn. Consider:
- Does your chosen program require a specific GPA or completion of math/reading prerequisites?
- Have you demonstrated reliability (attendance, punctuality, work readiness) in any job, volunteer, or school project?
- Would you consider a preparatory program, bridge course, or earning a certificate to strengthen your application?
3. Getting involved: extracurriculars
You mentioned you’re not currently involved. Extracurriculars help with time management, teamwork, and showing commitment to a goal:
- Start small: pick one activity that aligns with your career goal and one that builds a transferable skill (e.g., a math club or a community volunteer project).
- Idea options that pair well with trades: SkillsUSA or a robotics/tech club; volunteer work related to your field; part-time work or internships in a shop or service setting.
4. Your top school of choice: Work Texas Training Center
Action steps to verify admission requirements and fit:
- Visit or contact the admissions office for a current list of prerequisites (diploma, minimum math/reading level, placement tests).
- Ask about open houses, campus tours, and how to apply (deadlines, required documents).
- Research the demographics page or campus fact sheet and plan a visit to observe the environment.
5. Admissions requirements and your status
Checklist you can fill out:
- Top school requirements: __________________________
- Your current GPA: ______________________________
- Do you meet them now? Yes / No
- If not, steps to meet them by graduation: __________________________
6. Second-choice options
Have a backup plan in case your first choice isn’t available or has stricter requirements. Consider other trades schools, community colleges with vocational programs, or an apprenticeship.
7. Extracurriculars you’d consider (two picks)
- Option A: ___________________ and why it helps your goal
- Option B: ___________________ and why it helps your goal
8. Your dream job
Describe your dream job by answering:
- What tasks would you do daily?
- What skills would you need?
- Why are you interested in this career?
9. Salary and schedule basics
Use reliable sources (Bureau of Labor Statistics, industry websites) to research rough ranges:
- Average salary: estimate range for your field
- Typical hours per week
- What a normal day looks like
- Primary benefits (job stability, hands-on work, growth opportunities)
10. Making the right choices now
Reflect with these questions:
- Are you taking classes and pursuing experiences that build relevant skills?
- Are you meeting milestones on time (tests, placements, applications)?
- Do you have a plan to address gaps in math or reading?
- Do you have a support plan (tutors, mentors, study groups)?
11. A simple 30–60–90 day plan
30 days: gather requirements, schedule meetings with admissions, pick two extracurriculars to start.
60 days: join chosen activities, start a math/reading improvement plan, begin preparing for placement tests and applications.
90 days: submit early applications, complete any prerequisites, track progress toward GPA and credits.