Transitions

Table of Contents
__[|**What Is A Transition Plan**]__

__[|Why Should I Bother]__ __[|How Will It Work]__
 * [|__Required Components__]**
 * [|__Required Components__]**

__[|Downloadable version of required components]__ __[|**Section 1 - Who Am I**]__**?**

__[|Reflection]__ __[|Personality]__ __[|Interests]__

__[|Careers & Focus Areas]__ __[|Strengths]__ __[|Skills]__ __[|Healthy Living]__

__[|Diet]__ __[|Exercise]__ __[|Stress]__ __[|**Section 1 Check List**]__ **__of Assignments__** __[|**Section 2 - What Have I Done?**]__

__[|Showcase of Talents / Interests]__ __[|Resume]__ __[|Cover Letter]__ __[|Evidence]__

__[|Volunteer / Work Experience]__ __[|Physical Activity Hours]__ __[|**Section 2 Check List**]__ __[|**Section 3 - What Will I Do?**]__

__[|Transition Plan]__ __[|Career Exploration]__ __[|Plans For Further Study]__ __[|Healthy Living Plan]__ __[|Budget]__ __[|Detailed Future Plan]__ __[|**Section 3 Check List**]__ __[|**Section 4 - How Will I Use This?**]__

__[|Portfolios]__ __[|Interviews]__ __[|Presentations]__

**Appendix**
__[|Focus Areas & Occupations]__ __[|Strengths Checklist]__ __[|Employability Skills 2000+]__ __[|Managing Stress]__ __[|Write your Resume]__ __[|Writing a Cover Letter]__ __[|Financial Plan Sample]__ =What is a Transition Plan?=
 * A Transition Plan is YOUR plan for the future. It assess your skills, interests AND abilities and puts it all together into a plan. This will help you figure out what to do once you are done with High School. It is all about the Transition to the ‘Real World’. You might already have a really clear idea of what you want to do, or you might be completely lost. Either way, this Plan will help you get on the right track.**

What does this guide do?
This guide walks you through the steps of creating a Transition Plan and thinking about what should go into your Portfolio. Depending on your focus, interests and skills, your Portfolio will include written work, certificates, photos or art – it is completely up to YOU how you represent YOURSELF!

**It’s all about you!**
== =What is a Portfolio?=
 * You are unique, and so your portfolio will also be unique. This guide walks you through the process of getting it all organized.**

**What is it - Why should I bother?**
> Assembling a portfolio forces you to look at your skills, interests, strengths and weaknesses, successes and areas where you need to improve. It is the start of the lifelong process of documenting what makes you unique. > You will spend almost 40 hours a week for at least 25 years at work – That’s 50000 Hours! You should choose to do something you enjoy – it will make time go much quicker! Working through the Transition Plan and Portfolio will help you choose a career that will be rewarding to you. > When you have a job interview, you need to be prepared to talk about yourself. Often it is the not so obvious things you do, that will get you the job. Learn how to talk about your skills and abilities and have some documents to make your case – this will make interviews so much easier! > If you know what you want to do, the Transition Plan will help you figure out how to get there – the Colleges, Universities or Training Programs that will get you the needed qualifications. Your Portfolio will help you get into your chosen programs, figure out what areas you need to work on, and show skills you have. ==
 * A Portfolio is a collection of documents, photos, assignments, artwork and report cards. It is proof of your skills and abilities, attitudes and interests. Items from your portfolio support the things you write in your Resume and Cover letter.**
 * Personal Development**
 * Personal Development**
 * Career Exploration**
 * Career Exploration**
 * Job Search**
 * Job Search**
 * Further Training and Studies**
 * Further Training and Studies**

=How is it going to work?=

Start in Planning 10
Some of what you do in Planning 10 will get you started in this process Keep all the assignments and activities from Planning 10 Its up to you to get organized

Grade 11 will be a great time to add to your Transition Plan and Portfolio
No matter what subject, keep any work you are proud of. If you see any interesting materials about careers or activities you enjoy, hang on to them! It will most likely come in useful later. Think about the activities and subjects you enjoy – is there a possible career choice for you? Do they have a connection to your focus area?

Put it all together in Grade 12, (but it will never be done!)
Make a plan for the first 2 years out of High School Think about where you want to be in 10 and 20 years Figure out where your choices will take you As you grow throughout life, you will keep adding to your Plan and Portfolio. Contrary to what many High School students believe, you are NEVER done developing your skills and Abilities!

Time of introduction Old Program Item (Portfolio Aspects) Who am I? Personality (self) Assessment Planning 10 Career Exploration Planning 10 3.2 Skills inventory Planning 10 4.2/4.3/4.4 Focus Areas Planning 10 3.4 What Have I done? Linking Evidence to Skills Grade 11 3.3 Focus Areas & Learning / Activities Grade 11 3.4 Current Resume & Cover Letter Grade 12 3.1 Evidence of work & Skills in and out of school Grade 11 ANY Choice What’s Next? Plans for year after Graduation Grade 12 3.1 Applications (Work / School / Training) Grade 12 3.3 Career Exploration Grade 12 3.5/3.2 Budget Grade 12 3.1 Support Network (Friends / Family / Leisure) Grade 12 3.1 80 Hours NOT including PE10 Grade 11/12 6.1 Has to include written paragraphs Include evidence (Memberships, Photos, Letter, etc) 30 Hours of work / volunteering Grade 11/12 4.1 Include Documentation of Hours (Payslips, Letter, etc) Has to include write-up of skills Include how learned skills are applicable later in life Presentation of Transition Plan Grade 12 Presentation Show best work from in/out of school Explain choices & future plans Evaluation based on quality of interview and materials presented
 * Required Components** (As per Ministry of Education)
 * Required Components** (As per Ministry of Education)
 * TRANSITION PLAN**
 * TRANSITION PLAN**
 * TRANSITION PLAN**
 * TRANSITION PLAN**
 * PHYSICAL ACTIVITY HOURS**
 * PHYSICAL ACTIVITY HOURS**
 * PHYSICAL ACTIVITY HOURS**
 * PHYSICAL ACTIVITY HOURS**
 * WORK HOURS**
 * WORK HOURS**
 * WORK HOURS**
 * WORK HOURS**
 * PRESENTATION**
 * PRESENTATION**
 * PRESENTATION**
 * PRESENTATION**

=Section 1 - Who am I ?=

This will help you:
> **Here are the questions you should be able to answer after you do the activities in this section:** What do you like to do? What are you good at? What do you not like to do? What activities do you participate in? What skills are you getting from your activities? Do you have any paid or unpaid work experience? What are your interests and abilities? What can you do today? What do you want to do this year? What do you want to do in the future? What are your career goals? What are your life goals? **REFLECTION** > //Reflection// > //… Is a lifelong process. It is how we learn. You look at what you have done, the results you got, and how you can adjust your actions to get a better result. It’s how you learned to walk, and it will be how you will deal with old age – it is what our human intelligence is based on!//
 * To Understand ALL ABOUT YOU!**
 * To Understand ALL ABOUT YOU!**
 * To Describe your personality**
 * To Figure out your interests**
 * To Assess your skills**
 * To Organize your information**
 * To Assess your skills**
 * To Organize your information**
 * To Organize your information**
 * To Organize your information**
 * Think** about what you have done, what you want to achieve.
 * Think Positive!** – Feel good about what you have done, and then recognize where you can improve
 * PLAN!** – Learning is a life-long process, you will add skills in everything you do. But stay realistic! While becoming a Pro Athlete or winning the Lottery is a great dream, you need a back-up plan that is more realistic.
 * CAREFUL!** Working through this isn’t easy. Talk to someone you trust if you get troublesome thoughts!
 * PLAN!** – Learning is a life-long process, you will add skills in everything you do. But stay realistic! While becoming a Pro Athlete or winning the Lottery is a great dream, you need a back-up plan that is more realistic.
 * CAREFUL!** Working through this isn’t easy. Talk to someone you trust if you get troublesome thoughts!
 * CAREFUL!** Working through this isn’t easy. Talk to someone you trust if you get troublesome thoughts!
 * CAREFUL!** Working through this isn’t easy. Talk to someone you trust if you get troublesome thoughts!

You will write a minimum 1 page autobiography about your educational experiences from kindergarten to present.
 * Assignment #1- Educational Autobiography**

Here are some things you may wish to focus on: positive experiences on school

a great teacher good friends interesting activities or field trips What are some of the best times you remember? What types of things did you do well at?

Not so positive experiences in school

things that you struggled with talk about experiences and not names of people

Overall feeling towards school and why you feel that way.

4. What are some of the best ways that you found that teachers “got through” to you. How do you prefer to learn? Give some examples of classes that have fit well with your way of learning.

= Who are you anyway?=

Assignment #2 Personality Assessment
Make a list of 10 Adjectives that describe you and write one sentence that explains how they apply to you You can go on-line for a tool that will help you do this summary.go to: __[|**www.destination2020.com/destination2020/iam.htm**]__ Examples:
 * STEP 1 - PERSONALITY**
 * Creative:** I like to create things.
 * Logical:** I am able to think step by step.
 * Optimistic:** I look on the bright side of things and always try to find the good side
 * Sincere:** When I give compliments, I mean them. I am not a fake.
 * Optimistic:** I look on the bright side of things and always try to find the good side
 * Sincere:** When I give compliments, I mean them. I am not a fake.
 * Sincere:** When I give compliments, I mean them. I am not a fake.
 * Sincere:** When I give compliments, I mean them. I am not a fake.

Don’t be Modest - Be Honest!
=Assignment #3= **STEP 2 - INTERESTS** Such inventories can help you to recognize personal characteristics, interests, and skills that may link to – or help shape – your future goals. The following links provide examples of such assessment inventories: Discover Your Type Assessment __[|www.personalitytype.com/quiz.asp]__ The Career Key Professional Test - NCSU __[|www.careerkey.org/cgi-bin/ck.pl?action=choices]__ Keirsey Temperament Sorter II Personality Instrument __[|www.advisorteam.com/temperament_sorter/register.asp?partid=1]__ Princeton Review Career Quiz __[|www.princetonreview.com/cte/quiz/career_quiz1.asp]__ CAREERLINK Inventory __[|www.mpc.edu/cl/climain.htm]__ Career Tool Box Work Interest Quiz __[|www.myfuture.com/toolbox/workinterest.html]__ School Finder - Roger Harp’s 3 Step Career Quiz __[|www.schoolfinder.com/careers/3step1.asp]__ Career Focus 2000 Interest Inventory (CF2II) __[|www.iccweb.com/careerfocus/Login.asp]__
 * Complete at least two self assessment inventories**

Write down what your interests are, based on what you learned from these > inventories. For now, create a quick chart of your interests and where you use them if they are true. Later you will create a section that showcases your interests. Link your interests to possible Careers / Focus Areas **Assignment #4** Gather information about at least two education, career, or work options that you have considered for your future. Write a paragraph to describe the options and Post Secondary requirements for each. This could also be presented in the form a chart. Consider using the following links for information: __[|www.workfutures.bc.ca]__ __[|www.educationplanner.bc.ca]__ __[|www.workinfonet.ca]__ Match your Career Exploration to the Focus areas listed in the chart. (In the Appendix) Answer the following questions: What Focus Area(s) match your Career Exploration? What Level of education will you need for your choices?
 * What Careers match with your interests?**
 * Focus Area(s)**
 * See the Appendix for the** __[|**FOCUS AREA Chart**]__ **and** __[|**STRENGTHS Checklist**]__

**STEP 3 - STRENGTHS - yes we all have some!** very physically co-ordinated a good musician or just love listening to music appreciate colour, shapes and art in general and have a room full of visual attractions skilled at solving problems and puzzles especially good at working with people and have lots of friends skilled or interested in literature and languages someone who loves the outdoors and appreciates nature able to understand yourself, your capabilities and emotions and set personal goals Complete the __[|quick checklists]__ in the Appendix to find out where your strengths lie: Look back on all the categories See where you have a lot of check marks. You may have one category with many check marks, or several. Do you agree that your strengths fall into those categories? How would you demonstrate or prove that these are your strengths? What are you doing today that show these strengths? Make a chart like the one below: \ **STEP 4 - SKILLS - what can you do?** You have developed skills in and outside of school. • Sports, Work, Clubs, Volunteering, Group Projects, and things you do in your spare time all contribute to the skills you have. Employability skills are the skills you need to enter, stay in, and progress in the world of work, whether you work on your own or as a part of a team. These skills can also be applied and used beyond the work place in a range of daily activities Use the __[|Employability Skills 2000+]__ chart in the appendix to identify two skills you have acquired from each category. For each skill give a concrete example where you learned or used it. (Sports, completing a group project, or at your work place.) Attach an example of a project or activity from work, school or volunteering where you have developed the employability skills you have listed above. Use the chart below to make a quick reference list of your skills and activities > Leave enough room to be able to add more to this chart later! 
 * You may be:**
 * You may have several of these strengths. Check where they lie:**
 * Assignment #5**
 * Assignment #6**

Assignment #7
STEP 1 - ANALYSE YOUR DIET

Google “Canada Food Guide” Select: Eating Well with Canada's Food Guide - Main Page Click on: __[|Food Guide Basics]__ Topic: How much food you need to eat everyday For your age and sex how many servings of each of the following food groups should you be consuming each day? _______ Vegetables and Fruit _______ Grain Products _______ Milk and Alternates _______ Meat and Alternates In a chart like the one below record all food and drinks consumed over 3 days. The amount of each item should also be included. (*See Canada’s Food Guide to find out what constitutes ‘1’ serving. E.g. Bagel (1/2) CFG group= 1 serving of Grain Products) Additional questions: What food group did you consume the most of over the 3 days?

STEP 2 - WHAT ACTIVITIES DO YOU ENJOY?
 * Assignment #8**

You must be active to stay healthy. List your top 10 choices for physical activity Give one positive and one negative aspect of each choice > Think: Costs, Facilities, Weather, number of participants, etc. How do you think you will keep fit in the future? Write a paragraph explaining your plans. STEP 3 - YOUR PERSONAL STRESS STRATEGY
 * Assignment #9**

You learned about managing stress in Planning 10, and you can look at the __[|‘How Stressed Are You’ Quiz]__ in the Appendix to check your stress level, and then look at some of the suggested ways of dealing with Stress. How you manage your stress will be unique to you, but you should know: What are the three main things that cause my stress level to rise. What Signs and Symptoms do I exhibit when 1 am under stress. > Signs (actions) Symptoms (what happens to my body) Name one thing you currently do to relieve stress. Is it a healthy alternative? What other ways of dealing with stress match your personality and skills? List three and give their good and bad sides. Who can you talk to or where can you turn if you need help dealing with stress? This is your PERSONAL STRESS STRATEGY

In conclusion remember that some Stress is normal and that not all Stress is negative.

What you should have:
9 Completed Assignments PERSONALITY: ____ Educational Autobiography INTERESTS: ____ Personality Assessment ____ Career Match STRENGTHS: SKILLS: ____ Well written responses as well as a quick reference Chart to Employability Skills 2000+ BALANCE:
 * ____** Word Match
 * ____**Strengths Quick Check List
 * ____**Strengths Quick Check List
 * ____ Analyze your Diet**
 * ____** Activities List
 * ____ Personal Stress Strategy**
 * ____ Personal Stress Strategy**

Keep updating this...even after you graduate!
This section will help you to: Link your skills to your Evidence Create a Resume and Cover Letter Showcase your Talents

You should have a snapshot of who you are, your strengths, interests and abilities from SECTION 1 of this document. Now you must create a section to highlight these. This will include: A Collection of your skills and related evidence A Resume A Cover Letter Other Materials that show your achievements: Reference Letters Certificates (Young Drivers, First Aid, Food Safe) Awards, etc. (Math, Honour Roll) Diplomas (courses outside of school) Assignment 1: Showcase of talents & interests Collect your evidence and assemble this in a format that is both clear and appealing: Use the chart you did in SECTION 1 Assignment #3 to help you get started.

You could create a: Collage Mind map / Web / Video Web site Collection of photos Photos of activities/artwork/etc Photos of your support network Pages in a binder like an album A video or website

Section 2 Assignment #1 Requirements

This assignment has been created to help the student look into themselves and create a visual representation of who they, what they like and what they are about.

Create images, words, music or ideas that represent you. It must represent yourself and your interests in life, school and careers. You are encouraged to be as creative as possible. Create something that gets your points across and is uniquely you. **However, do keep it appropriate to school**. This is to represent yourself in 2007/2008 school year and earlier.

__The Reflection__ 1. With your assignment, include reflections on your evidence that tells someone else: how you know this is an interest or strength how often you demonstrate these strengths or interests what your top strength/s and interest/s is/are as they may relate to a future career path, any outstanding achievements, what you are really proud of….

Assignment 2 : Your Resume You can do a **Resume** using a chronological (date) order, or one based on your skills and interests. There are many sites and templates that help you with the format of a Resume.
 * Condense all your skills, abilities and interests into one page**. (This is easier said than done!)
 * Condense all your skills, abilities and interests into one page**. (This is easier said than done!)

You can go to __[|www.resume-help.org/free_resume_examples.htm]__ > >> or __[|jobstar.org/tools/resume/samples.php]__ for some good examples Download and look at a __[|Resume Template]__ for a basic outline or go to __[|www.cdm.uwaterloo.ca/step4_2_8.asp]__ to view or download résumé examples. Your Resume should be clear, concise and easy to scan Helpful tips for your resume:

Never use “I” statements Make your resume no longer than two pages, preferably only 1 page! Make sure you have left a white margin Ensure that you type it and use 12 point font For example and a step by step guide to writing a résumé go to: __[|www.youth.gc.ca/yoaux.jsp?&lang=en&flash=1&ta=1&auxpageid=214]__
 * SAVE your Resume** on your computer,
 * UPDATE your Resume** whenever you have a new skill, or added experience
 * Resource:**
 * UPDATE your Resume** whenever you have a new skill, or added experience
 * Resource:**


 * Get Their Attention:** A resume usually gets less than 20 seconds of time from the employer – make those seconds count!

Assignment 3 : Your Cover Letter Attach a cover letter to every resume you send out. It is best **not** to send the same cover letter to every employer: customize each letter to match the company and job you are applying for. Cover letters usually have 3 components: In the 1st paragraph state your interest in the company and the job. Say how you found out about the opening or the company and why you are interested. In the 2nd paragraph tell the employer what you have to offer the company by high-lighting one or two qualifi cations you think would be of greatest interest. Mention any special training or experience you have. Do not repeat everything in your resume. (Refer your reader to your resume for further details) Demonstrate that you know something about the company or the industry. In the 3rd paragraph Request an interview and state how you will follow up. Close your letter by expressing your appreciation for the employer’s time > and consideration of your application. Resource: For example and a step by step guide go to: __[|www.youth.gc.ca/yoaux.jsp?&lang=en&flash=1&ta=1&auxpageid=217#cover]__

Step 4 : Collect your Materials & Evidence Collect all materials that show your achievements: Reference Letters, (or Work Performance Evaluation Reports) Certificates (Young Drivers, First Aid, Food Safe) Awards, etc. (Math, Honour Roll) Diplomas (Courses outside of school, Piano) Pay slips (if you do not have a Reference Letter from you employer) Try to organize them by area of interest or type of activity Use Sheet protectors and a Binder, so you can easily change and update these. This is also where you should keep proof of the required hours for Graduation 30 Hours of Work or Volunteer Experience

Must be from Grade 10 onward You have to document your activities (Pay slips, Letter, etc.) Write-up of skills learned / practised & Future application of them Include an explanation of how your activity contributed to the Community > >> (Give this some thought and detail!) Physical Activity Hours (80)

Documentation of Hours (Memberships, Photos, Letter, etc.) Write-up of activities and future plans WHAT type of activities you enjoy WHERE can you participate in these activities HOW will you manage time & cost to be able to participate?

What you should have: INTERESTS: ____ Assignment #1 Showcase of Talents and Interests RESUME: ____ Assignment #2 2 Pages Maximum - preferably only 1 COVER LETTER: ____ Assignment #3 1 Page only EVIDENCE: ____ A folder with any certificates, awards, diplomas or letters of reference you might have.

Your Transition Plan
This section will help you to: Make plans for the next few years

Work School Free time Physical Activity Explore Career Choices and the skills / training you will need. Create a budget of the first years out of school

Assignment #1 - What are your plans for the first two years out of High School? • This should be a summary of the next 5 assignments. •Keep this to ONE short paragraph giving only the highlights of your plans. Assignment 7 is the expanded version of this section. Edit assignment #1 after you complete assignment #7 to make it more concise & precise! Your Transition Plan - Career Exploration Assignment #2 - EXPLORE YOUR CAREER CHOICE Match your focus areas and Career exploration from PART 1 with actual choices for your future. Do a ‘check in’ in paragraph form;

Are you still pursuing the same Focus Area (s)? as you listed in Section 1? If this has changed, what factors were involved in the change? List your top three choices for your future occupation, and document the information you have collected. Do one of the two choices below.

Career Fairs / Info Sessions Document participation in three or more information sessions or presentations

Document participation (collect handouts / pamphlets) What SPECIFIC information was presented? Which session was most useful to you and why? Document the information you collected. How does this career match your focus area? Evaluate the quality of the Presentations. Explain your evaluation, based on clarity, relevance and ability to hold your interest. Research Your Options Document your research – match it to your Focus Area

Find information on a career you are interested in What TRAINING is required for your choice? Find WHERE you can complete the required training Evaluate what you have done, or need to do. What courses / preparation do you have to complete to qualify for training? What have courses have you completed so far to get you there? Evaluate the information you collected. Explain your evaluation, based on clarity, relevance and quality of site / resources. See the Appendix for the __[|FOCUS AREA Chart]__ Use the INTERNET to find information PRINT what you find as evidence

Your Transition Plan - What needs Working on?
Assignment #3 - Determine what you have achieved and need to work on List courses you need to take in high school to follow your career path.

Include courses you have already completed Determine if your current load will help you reach your goal Verify that you have what you need or speak about adjustments you may need to make. – Both in terms of courses and work / volunteer experience. What school and community activities have and will support you in achieving the job options you explored? Has anything changed since grade 10? What adjustments might you need to make?

Assignment #4 - Complete Application Forms Complete at least two applications for:

A Job, Training Program or University. Bursaries / Scholarships / Awards Copies of on-line applications are acceptable.

Your Transition Plan - Healthy Living
Assignment #5 - Create a plan for healthy living

How will you get a balanced diet as a student
 * Use your information from Planning 10 and PE to create a Nutrition Plan**

Cooking (no KD!) School Cafeterias (no Burgers & Fries) Eating out or eating at home? Look at your food plan from grade 10 to see how you are doing now, compared to then. Create a one-week plan for a balanced diet.

How will you plan to stay fit?
 * Do you still enjoy the Physical Activities you identified in Planning / Section 1?**

What activities will you engage in? (list at least 5 choices) What are the advantages / disadvantages of each? What options for exercise will you have next year?

School / Employer Facilities Community Resources (Centres, Trails, etc.) List at least 3 choices, and who uses these choices

What costs would be involved How are they connected to their community? http://www.cdc.gov/HealthyLiving/

Refer back to the stress management techniques from Section 1 or the Appendix What methods do you use at this point in your life?
 * How do you manage stress in your life**

List at least 3 ways you manage stress. Why do these work for you?

Your Transition Plan - Financing your Future
Assignment #6 - Create a Budget for your first year out of High School, or your 4 years in College / University, if that is your choice.

Complete the budget sheet in the appendix and do your own calculations Complete an online Budget and print out the results.
 * You have two choices:**

One good site: Government of Canada Site for student budgeting

__[|srv650.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca/cslp-pcpe/cl/30/fp-pf/clindex.jsp]__ Complete Steps 1 & 2 on the On line Budget Planner and print the results.  Assignment #7 - Your Future Plans - in Detail What specific skills will you need to develop after graduation to reach your goals? What skills will you have to develop in the next 10-15 years to keep up to date in your area? What roles will the following play in you reaching your goals.
 * Print out your results and attach for reference.**

Family – Mental & Financial Support, Housing, etc. Friends – Hobbies, sports, Mental Support, Shared living, etc. Work – Finances, Experience and a change of pace Leisure – Activities, Sports, etc. (refer to your healthy living plan) Now go back to Step 1 and edit it!

What you should have:

 * A COMPLETE TRANSITION PLAN**

_____ Assignment #1 Your Goals for the first two years after high school. _____ Assignment #2 Career Choice _____ Assignment #3 Determine what you have achieved _____ Assignment #4 Application Forms _____ Assignment #5 Create a plan for Healthy Living _____ Assignment #6 Create a Budget _____ Assignment #7 Your Future Plans



Life Changes - you will change with it !
As you change your plans, you can go back to your skill and interest exploration to see what might work for you. Use these materials when you work on:

When you decide on a career, you are choosing the work you will do each day. It is important to choose an occupation that suits your personality and interests and uses your skills and strengths - remember you will spend at least 50,000 hours working during your lifetime! Use the information you have gathered to help you make your decision. Review your personality, interests, skills and strengths. Consider your many options. Weigh the pros and cons of each of your choices Look at your plan and see if you can make it work – if not - make changes! **FURTHER TRAINING OR STUDIES** More and more University, College and training programs now require you to provide a portfolio, references, evidence or documented volunteer experience to be considered Medical Schools Art and Design Schools Manufacturing Use interviews and Portfolios! MBA Co-op programs Teacher Training Use the materials here to help you build a portfolio SPECIFIC to what you are applying for. Just like a Cover Letter, a Portfolio should be tailored specifically to the program or job you are applying for Consider what other items you could add to give a more complete picture of yourself. Keep updating these materials as you add more skills and qualifications. Keep using the sites you visited for these tasks to help you make choices for the future
 * CAREER EXPLORATION**



Use these materials to review what you want to say BEFORE your interview This will help you be more confident that you can answer all questions Think of your skills and abilities and match them to what is most relevant for the interview Look at your examples for where you have used your skills, so you can refer to them quickly during the Interview Select the best pieces of evidence and have these ready during the interview You will not have a chance to flip through your materials You might not have a chance to use them, but they will give you increased confidence http://www.expatnetwork.com/index.asp?page=68 **PRESENTATION** Create an alternate, more elaborate way of displaying your collected information, which can be shared with a wider audience: Web site Multi-Media CD/DVD Video Presentation / Demo Reel Art Portfolio Oral Presentation with PowerPoint Oral Presentation with physical evidence displayed Prepare for a Panel Presentation Present to a Parent, Teacher and Member of the Community
 * JOB INTERVIEWS & EXIT INTERVIEWS**



**Appendix**
__[|Focus Areas & Occupations]__ __[|Strengths Checklist]__ __[|Employability Skills 2000+]__ __[|Managing Stress]__ __[|Write your Resume]__ __[|Writing a Cover Letter]__ __[|Financial Plan Sample]__

Focus Areas and Examples of Potential Work place Occupations
Focus Area Grade 12 Graduation Some Post-Secondary More Post-secondary & Work Experience Business Applied Business Salesperson Office Assistant Bank Teller Accounting Clerk Sales Representative Executive Assistant Loans Office Bookkeeper Sales Manager Manager Investment Analyst Certified Accountant Fine Arts, Design, Media Music Store Sales Artist/Craftsperson Silkscreen Artist Film / Video Entry Level Position Music Teacher Art/Crafts Instructor Illustrator Video/Film Camera Operator Composer/Conductor Visual Arts Teacher Interior Designer Film Editor Fitness Recreation Attendant Ski Lift Operator Forestry Firefighter Life Guard Recreation Leader Ski Instructor Firefighter Swim Instructor Facilities Manager Ski Resort Manager Firefighter Officer Pool Manager Health & Human Services Nurse’s Aide Security Guard Group Home Worker Youth Group Leader Paramedic Police Officer Youth Care Worker Teacher Assistant Registered Nurse Probation Officer Social Worker Teacher Liberal Arts, Humanities Library Assistant Tour Guide Copy Writer Museum Attendant Library Technician Publicist Journalist Museum Guide Librarian Events Coordinator Editor Museum Curator Sciences, Applied Sciences Animal Care Worker Landscape Worker Forestry Worker Nursery Worker Veterinary Technician Landscape Technician Forestry Technician Horticulture Technician Veterinarian Landscape Architect Professional Forester Plant Biologist Tourism, Hospitality, Foods Kitchen Helper Food Server Front Desk Clerk Tour Guide Cook Hospitality Supervisor Reservations Sales Agent Travel Counsellor Chef Operations Manager Hotel Manager Travel Agency Manager Trades & Technology Construction Labourer Skilled Trades Helper Equipment Operator Computer Tech Support Worker Carpenter Apprentice Trades Apprentice Equipment Technician Certified Computer Technician Capenter Trades Journeyperson Mechanic Computer Systems Programmer


 * STRENGTHS CHECKLIST**


 * I have body or kinesthetic strengths if I:**
 * _______like to play sports**
 * _______am very co-ordinated**
 * _______learn a new sport or dance step easily**
 * _______like to play video games**
 * _______use my hands when I am talking**
 * _______like fixing things**
 * _______find myself moving a lot or find it hard to sit still**


 * I have music strengths if I:**
 * _______like listening to music**
 * _______like playing a musical instrument or singing**
 * _______find myself humming**
 * _______like to listen to music when I study**
 * _______notice sounds all around me**
 * _______remember melodies and notice if something doesn’t sound right**
 * _______keep rhythm or the beat when I listen to music**


 * I have language or verbal strengths if I:**
 * _______like to read**
 * _______like to write in a journal, stories, poetry or other writings**
 * _______like word puzzles or games**
 * _______learn the words to songs I hear**
 * _______like to listen to stories or plays**
 * _______like to listen to jokes or comedians**
 * _______like to talk**


 * I have people strengths if I:**
 * _______help friends with problems or talk about my problems**
 * _______would rather be with people than alone**
 * _______like team sports**
 * _______like being with a group or even a crowd of people**
 * _______have lots of friends**
 * _______get along with people easily**
 * _______like watching people**


 * I have visual strengths if I:**
 * _______like watching the images in music videos, movies or ads**
 * _______like to doodle or draw**
 * _______like to see how websites and programs on the computer look**
 * _______can use maps, graphs and charts easily**
 * _______like to plan how to decorate a room or put together fashion looks**
 * _______like photographs or taking photographs**
 * _______like colour**


 * I have personal strength if I:**
 * _______like to spend time alone doing sports, hobbies or just thinking**
 * _______know what I like to do**
 * _______make my plans and set my own goals**
 * _______have self-confidence to try new things**
 * _______want to learn new things**
 * _______find that some of my ideas are different from those of my parents or friends**
 * _______believe I am a spiritual person or want to learn more about different religions**


 * I have logic strengths if I:**
 * _______like math**
 * _______like to figure out how things work**
 * _______like to solve puzzles**
 * _______like to organize things**
 * _______like games that require strategy**
 * _______like to use computers**
 * _______like science courses**

//**Fundamental Skills**// The skills needed as a basis for further development You will be better prepared to progress in the world of work when you can: · read and understand information presented in a variety of forms (e.g., words, graphs, charts, diagrams) · write and speak so others pay attention and understand · listen and ask questions to understand and appreciate the points of view of others · share information using a range of information and communications technologies (e.g., voice, e-mail, computers) · create a document · use relevant scientific, technological, and mathematical knowledge and skills to explain or clarify ideas · locate, gather, and organize information using appropriate technology and information systems · access, analyze, and apply knowledge and skills from various disciplines (e.g., the arts, languages, science, technology, mathematics, social sciences, and the humanities) · decide what needs to be measured or calculated · observe and record data using appropriate methods, tools, and technology · make estimates and verify calculations
 * Communicate**
 * Manage Information**
 * Use Numbers**

· assess situations and identify problems< · seek different points of view and evaluate them based on facts · recognize the human, interpersonal, technical, scientific, and mathematical dimensions of a problem · identify the root cause of a problem · be creative and innovative in exploring possible solutions · readily use science, technology, and mathematics as ways to think, gain, and share knowledge, solve problems, and make decisions · evaluate solutions to make recommendations or decisions · implement solutions · check to see if a solution works, and act on opportunities for improvement
 * Think and Solve Problems**

//**Personal Management Skills**//

The personal skills, attitudes, and behaviours that drive one’s potential for growth You will be able to offer yourself greater possibilities for achievement when you can: · feel good about yourself and be confident · deal with people, problems, and situations with honesty, integrity, and personal ethics · recognize your own and other people’s good efforts · take care of your personal health · show interest, initiative, and effort · set goals and priorities balancing work and personal life · plan and manage time, money, and other resources to achieve goals · assess, weigh, and manage risk · be accountable for your actions and the actions of your group · be socially responsible and contribute to your community · work independently or as part of a team · carry out multiple tasks & projects · be innovative and resourceful: identify and suggest alternative ways to achieve goals and get the job done · be open and respond constructively to change · learn from your mistakes and accept feedback · cope with uncertainty · be willing to continuously learn and grow · assess personal strengths and areas for development · set your own learning goals · identify and access learning sources and opportunities · plan for and achieve your learning goals · be aware of personal and group health and safety practices and procedures, and act in accordance with them
 * Demonstrate Positive Attitudes and Behaviours**
 * Be Responsible**
 * Be Adaptable**
 * Learn Continuously**
 * Work Safely**

//**Teamwork Skills**//

The skills and attributes needed to contribute productively

You will be better prepared to add value to the outcomes of a task, project, or team when you can: · understand and work within the dynamics of a group · ensure that a team’s purpose and objectives are clear · be flexible: respect, and be open to and supportive of the thoughts, opinions, and contributions of others in a group · recognize and respect people’s diversity, individual differences, and perspectives · accept and provide feedback in a constructive and considerate manner · contribute to a team by sharing information and expertise · lead or support when appropriate, motivating a group for high performance · understand the role of conflict in a group to reach solutions · manage and resolve conflict when appropriate · plan, design, or carry out a project or task from start to finish with well-defined objectives and outcomes · develop a plan, seek feedback, test, revise, and implement · work to agreed-upon quality standards and specifications · select and use appropriate tools and technology for a task or project · adapt to changing requirements and information · continuously monitor the success of a project or task and identify ways to improve
 * Work with Others**
 * Participate in Projects and Tasks**

> Set yourself a reasonable wake-up time and bedtime. Stick to it. Allow up to 3 weeks to re-set your body clock. ** During the daytime get some exposure to natural light. > Repair and regenerate. Every morning prioritize a list of everything that needs to be done. “Then cut the bottom half off the list.” > Change = Stress Even good change adds stress. > Avoid the highs and lows caused by sugar, candy, caffeine & alcohol > **Choose cereal, pasta, bread & rice; they will provide a slow even release of sugar > Eating vegetables will increase the production of “seratonin” a happy messenger. > Avoid foods or any items that may trigger your allergies > This will give the nerve cells in the brain a chance to rest (stop worrying) Rest your mind: choose music, art. read, create etc. > They may block out the overstressed feelings short term but are can do long term damage.
 * ==WAYS OF DEALING WITH STRESS== ||
 * RE-SET YOUR BODY CLOCK**
 * RE-SET YOUR BODY CLOCK**
 * GIVE YOURSELF A BREAK TODAY**
 * GIVE YOURSELF A BREAK TODAY**
 * LIGHTEN UP YOUR LOAD OF SOCIAL ENGAGEMENTS** (Say “no”)
 * POSTPONE A CHANGE IN YOUR LIVING ENVIRONMENT**
 * POSTPONE A CHANGE IN YOUR LIVING ENVIRONMENT**
 * POSTPONE A CHANGE IN YOUR LIVING ENVIRONMENT**
 * NO MORE THAN 40 HRS. / WEEK AT WORK OR SCHOOL**
 * KEEP BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS STEADY**
 * KEEP BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS STEADY**
 * KEEP BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS STEADY**
 * ALLERGIES**
 * ALLERGIES**
 * EXERCISE**
 * EXERCISE**
 * RESIST THE USE OF DRUGS AND TRANOUILIZERS**
 * RESIST THE USE OF DRUGS AND TRANOUILIZERS**
 * TAKE SEVERAL 30-SECOND BREAKS TO LOOK OUT THE WINDOW OR STRETCH**
 * MEDITATE. OR PRACTICE A RELAXATION TECHNIQUE LIKE YOGA.OR TAI-CHI**
 * HUG YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS**
 * MEDITATE. OR PRACTICE A RELAXATION TECHNIQUE LIKE YOGA.OR TAI-CHI**
 * HUG YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS**
 * HUG YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS**




 * Writing your Resume**

__[|**http://www.youth.gc.ca/yoaux.jsp?&lang=en&flash=1&ta=1&auxpageid=214**]__


 * Writing a Cover Letter**

__[|**http://www.youth.gc.ca/yoaux.jsp?&lang=en&flash=1&ta=1&auxpageid=217**]__


 * == Financial Planning== ||

Financial Plan (For your first full year out of school) List the income you expect to have over the 12 month period following High School (Don’t include Scholarships, loans or gifts)
 * Income**
 * Income**
 * Income**

Income after deductions _______ 1 Income from investments _______ 2 On-going support from family _______ 3
 * Total Income** **(A=sum of 1-3) _______ A**

List the expenses you expect to have for the 12 month period after leaving high school. Enter any amounts that will apply
 * Expenses**

Housing _______ 10 Car Payments _______ 11 Other Loan payments _______ 12 Utilities (gas, electricity, water) _______ 13 Communications (Cable, Phone, Cell) _______ 14 Other _______ 15 Car Payments _______ 17 Home or contents (if renting) _______ 18 Other (travel / medical) _______ 19
 * Fixed**
 * Insurance** _______ 16
 * Total Fixed Expenses (B=sum of 10-19 _______ B**

Groceries (About $200/month) _______ 20 Eating out _______ 21 Household (Cleaning, furniture, etc.) _______ 22 Computer & accessories _______ 23 Health Care (Dental, Glasses, drugs) _______ 24 Child care _______ 25 Pets _______ 26 Transportation (Car costs $2000/year) _______ 27 Public Transit $720/year _______ 28 Clothing _______ 29 Personal Care (Toiletries, laundry) _______ 30 Recreation (movies, DVDs, clubs, etc.) _______ 31 Travel _______ 32 Gifts and Charitable Donations _______ 33 Tuition fees ($4000 to $6000 / year) _______ 34 Books, supplies ($500-$1000 / year) _______ 35 Other _______ 36
 * Variable**


 * Total Variable Expenses _______ C**
 * (C=sum of 20-36)**
 * Total Expenses (D=B+C) _______ D**

Balance Sheet - Will it work out? List money you have saved, or money you expect to have when you leave High School, either from your own jobs, or from your family. Enter any amounts that apply.
 * Assets**

My Savings _______ 50 My Investments _______ 51 Scholarships _______ 52 Student Loans _______ 53 RESP in my name _______ 54 Contributions from family and Friends _______ 55 Other _______ 56
 * My total assets (E=sum of 50-56) _______ E**

List any debts you will be responsible for
 * Debts**

My credit card balances _______ 60 My student loans (the money I’ll owe) _______ 61 My Car loan _______ 62 Bank Loans _______ 63 Debts to Family _______ 64
 * My total debts (F=sum of 60-64) _______ F**


 * My Net worth (G=E-F) _______ G**

Enter the information from the above calculations.

Income _______ From A Expenses _______ From D
 * The year after school:**
 * Difference** _______ H (H=A-D)

My Net Worth _______ From G Number of years of study _______ I Available funds to meet shortfall each year _______ J (J=G/I)
 * Will you have to use savings?**

BALANCE _______ (=J-H) Print this out and keep for your Transition Plan
 * Complete all the fields that apply to you and see if your plan can work out.**
 * Makes some changes if it does not!**