Steps to Success
ICAN has created a step-by-step guide of programs and resources to help you get ready for your future. We know what you're thinking, in 6th, 7th and 8th grade the future is still really far away, why should you be thinking about college now? The truth is that your future begins the first day of your freshman year of high school.
Your freshman year is the beginning of everything. No matter what you want to do in life, it starts your freshman year. So it's a good idea to get started early and take high school seriously. You may not know what you want to do with your life, but you certainly don't want to limit yourself by not getting a good start.
Start Early
High School Success is the first step to success in career, college and in life.
Do you know what it takes to be successful? You need to KnowHow2GO, whether the 'GO' describes a future career or college. Learn the four steps to KnowHow2GO and you'll be off to a great start.
8th Graders: Consider attending an ICAN Freshman Transtion presentation in April or May, or visit with your school counselor or an ICAN advisor to map out a success plan.
Study. Study. Study.
Grades matter all FOUR years! That's right, freshman through senior year.
Way down the road when you want to get a job or get into college, the decision-makers will want to look at your grades from freshman year through senior year. So get a good start now by learning good study and organizational skills.
8th Graders: At some point this year you will begin looking at your Four-Year Plans for high school. Take this seriously and be involved in the planning process. Planning your courses is a BIG step in preparing for your future.
Ask Questions.
Talk to people and learn all you can about the future. Counselors, colleges AND your parents.
What do you want to be when you grow up? It's ok if you don't know, that's what school and different classes and activities will help you figure out. You should also consider taking a personality assessment and doing research to discover your interests. This will help you plan out your courses and pick which extracurricular activities you want to be involved with.
Save. Save. Save.
Start saving now for college and create good habits for the future. Check out the different ways to save.
Be Responsible.
Being an adult means showing respect, planning ahead and taking responsibility for your future. The sooner you start practicing these traits the sooner adults will take you seriously and the more prepared you'll be for the tough decisions coming your way.
