Ninth Grade Planning Guide
Fall
Explore college and career opportunities
In advisory class learn about and research opportunities that match your goals, interests, and skills. Think broadly. There are many different career and educational options available.
Attend college and career fairs.
Learn about a variety of post-secondary options such as certificate and degree programs, trade and apprenticeship programs, military options, gap year programs, on-the-job training, etc.
Plan your courses.
Meet with your school counselor to plan courses based on your interests and goals.
Plan your coursework so it includes rigorous courses, including career electives and CTE courses.
These courses are offered in a variety of subjects and incorporate academic, creative, technical and soft skills that will help you choose a career while providing you with lifelong skills and training. Some trade and apprenticeship programs look for certain CTE and math courses.
Keep up with your school work and maintain good grades.
Many students need academic support to do well in rigorous courses. Speak with your teachers and counselor about support options available at your school.
Get involved in extracurricular activities like sports, student government, music groups, and volunteerism.
Keep a record of these activities for your resume and college applications. Use Oregon CIS to track your activities and build your resume.
Extracurricular activities can help you discover your interests, develop leadership skills, demonstrate time-management, and show a commitment that colleges and employers look for in an application.
Winter
Start thinking about which colleges and careers best match your goals, skills, and interests.
Spring
Start thinking about which colleges and careers best match your goals, skills, and interests.
Make summer plans to work or participate in a variety of college and career related experiences, such as volunteerism, college visits, job-shadows, and internships. Take the time to speak with people in your daily life who are in careers that may be of interest to you.
Work with a school counselor to plan next year’s classes and sign up for rigorous courses.