Encourage your children to take the courses that are recommended for college-bound students and for career fields that require one or two years of postsecondary education. Help parents and grandparents learn about financial aid and show them how they can save for college. Build partnerships with local K-12 schools to improve academic preparation for college. Offer college-prep, technical classes, and challenging coursework to all students. Be sure all students and their families know about these courses in time to plan their academic program, and build local partnerships with colleges, community colleges, universities, and businesses.
Mentors can help students learn about many different kinds of careers and college programs.
Volunteer to visit a school and talk to students about the education and training that you received in order to get your job. Discuss the connection between the skills and knowledge you gained in high school and college, and the skills and knowledge that you use each day at work. Sponsor shadowing programs, internships, and apprenticeships for middle school, high school, and college students so they can learn about careers first hand. Many students have never been exposed to the academic side of a college campus and aren't familiar with college programs. You can arrange to have the admissions office talk to students about the courses they'll need to enroll, what scholarships and financial aid are available, and the many exciting and rewarding careers that college graduates can pursue.