PEA RIDGE — Graduating seniors are nearing the finish line of college planning. Though it may seem like the hard work is finished, it’s no time to give in to senioritis.
More and more colleges and universities are carefully monitoring grades and extracurricular involvement through the end of senior year. Keep up on schoolwork and extracurricular leadership roles.
Decisions still need to be made. Financial aid offers will arrive soon, if they haven’t already, and this may impact attendance decisions. Review offers - and all of the other decision-making factors - when choosing a school. It is possible to appeal a financial aid package, but often the first offer will be the best one.
Start thinking about how to spend your summer after graduation. Would a job provide more perspective on a future career? Is volunteering a wise use of time? How about getting a head start on your freshman year by taking courses at a local college that will transfer to your institution of choice?
Now is a good time to decide how you’ll spend your time between graduation and the fall term.
Math and science required for fast-growing careers
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook, 15 of the 20 fastest growing careers of the next decade require math and science proficiency. Some of the fastest growing fields include network systems and data communications analysts, home healthcare providers, computer software engineers, medical assistants, veterinarians and financial analysts.
Though not all of these positions require four-year degrees, they do require strong abilities in math and science. ACT recommends students take a minimum of three years of math (Algebra I and higher - not including general math, business math or consumer math) and at least three years of natural sciences (earth science, biology, chemistry, physics, etc.)
School, Pages 9 on 05/11/2011