How to plan for college

How to plan for college

How to best plan and prep for college

College and career prep is one of my all time favorite topics. It is so fun to walk alongside clients as they dream about their future and goals. I am a huge goal person and I love to help clients make SMART goals that propel them toward living the life they want to live. Similarly to goal setting, creating a solid career plan can provide you with a roadmap to your future. Don’t worry, this career plan won’t be drawn out in a Sharpie marker, it is not permanent, and it will likely change. A plan helps you to take steps in the right direction and you can always recalculate your plan if something changes. Maybe you want to stay here in Akron, Ohio or maybe you have plans to go somewhere in driving distance like Cleveland or maybe you really want to push yourself and go out of state all together. There are so many factors to consider when planning to college. 

If you are a high school or college student right now, you have many questions going through your mind as we start the process. “When will I be able to take the SAT/ACT? How does the FASFA work? How will I be able to get a job after graduation?”  Therefore, you may have doubts filling your head. You may have a lot of emotions as you grieve what you may be losing. All these thoughts and questions are completely normal because going to college or entering the workforce is a big step. Though we may have more questions than answers, there are a few helpful tips that I want to share with you.

Focus on what you can control

Shifting your focus to what you can control is a powerful tool. Take a moment to think about the following questions and jot down some answers. Make sure your answer reflect how you really feel, not what your parents want you to do or what your friends are choosing to do. Everyone’s path is different and that makes it special. 

  • What am I gifted at?
  • What unique skills do I possess?
  • Where is an area that I have talent in?
  • What brings me passion?
  • What do I like to study? What areas interest me?
  • What goals do I have for my future?
  • Where do I see myself in 2 years? 5 years? 10 years?
  • What do I have control over right now?
  • What classes were my favorite in school?
  • Is it important to me to be near family?

 

Use your resources wisely

Here are some great resources to use during this time:

Invest in your future

Here are some practical ways to invest in your future:

  • Learn a new hobby or strengthen a skill set (take an online course or teach yourself)
  • Daydream about how you would like to build your life
  • Set SMART goals for your future
  • Ask yourself, “What is one thing that I can do today to help me get closer to my goal?”
  • Read a book on a topic you are interested in
  • Find an individual in your “dream” career and reach out to ask them questions
  • Reach out for guidance from family or school counselors
  • Journal about the life you are dreaming about
  • Make a list of your values

Counseling for College Students & Young Adults in Akron, Ohio

As a therapist who works primarily with young adults,  I understand campus life better than most private practice therapists.  I have experience helping other young adults navigate the stressful college years and I enjoy counseling college students.  I see a variety of people in my Akron, Ohio counseling office. I treat people with depression, anxiety, religious trauma and gender dysphoria.  Still have questions? Get answers to common questions about counseling here or simply schedule a counseling session today to get started!