South Garner High School Career Services

Career Ready

What does it mean to be Career Ready?

While there is no debate that a rigorous level of academic proficiency, especially in math and literacy, is essential for any post-high school endeavor, the reality is that it takes much more to be truly considered ready for a career.

Academic Skills + Employability Skills + Technical Skills = CAREER READY

Career readiness involves three major skill areas: core academic skills and the ability to apply those skills to concrete situations in order to function in the workplace and in routine daily activities; employability skills (such as critical thinking and responsibility) that are essential in any career area; and technical, job-specific skills related to a specific career pathway.

Source: ACTE-Association for Career and Technical Education

Exploring Careers

How do you begin to decide which career is right for you? Once you have completed self-assessments, it's time to explore career options. Below are some tips on how to explore careers.

Exploring Careers Online. There are hundreds of online resources for you to check out. Take a look at the Career Resources below to get started.
Informational Interviews. Consider scheduling some interviews with people who have jobs that you find interesting.
Job Shadowing. Spend either a day or half-day observing a career professional and learn what a typical day entails. You can learn a lot about a career and industry through observation and asking the right questions.
Cooperative Education. Some schools have cooperative education programs that allow students to attend classes for part of the day then work during the remaining part. The school and business cooperate to create a learning environment.
Internships. Many WCPSS high school have internship programs, including Millbrook High School. Students have the opportunity to take on projects and gain valuable work experience through internships. Internships look great on your resume!
Summer Programs. Consider using some of your time to participate in a summer enrichment program. Plan ahead and apply early since many programs have limited enrollment and fill up quickly.
Part-Time Jobs. Whether it's a summer job or a part-time job during the school year, part-time employment is a great way to gain work experience and explore careers.
Volunteering. Many organizations offer volunteer opportunities. Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community and gain work experience and explore careers. Volunteer activities also look great on your college and scholarship applications.

Contact Mr. Walker in Room 1354A to help you get started exploring careers today!

High School Career Planning

The Career Development Process involves the completion of a variety of activities geared to help students determine or confirm their desired life direction. This is the initial action that must be taken in order to select an appropriate career or college major.

The greatest challenge and the greatest need for career development programs occur at the high school level. The need is that graduation plans dictate certain educational selections that require guided reflection and decision-making. Mr. Walker is available to help all students through the career development process.

Step 1: Get to Know Yourself