The local Community Colleges offer over 200 programs designed to assist students in gaining the skills they need to get a job in their chosen field.  The Community Colleges offer everything from Website and Video Game Design to Cosmetology and trades in the Construction Industry.  Financial Aid is available to most students which makes Community College one of the most affordable ways to gain the necessary skills needed for employment.  San Diego has 8 Community Colleges - to explore all the different options start here:  Career Education at the Community College 

Many local construction trades offer apprenticeship programs.  These Apprenticeship Programs must meet standards set forth by the US Department of Labor.  According to the Dept. of Labor an apprenticeship program "is an employer-driven, “learn-while-you-earn" model that combines on-the-job training, provided by the employer that hires the apprentice, with job-related instruction in curricula tied to the attainment of national skills standards. The model also involves progressive increases in an apprentice’s skills and wages."  

The following websites will help you learn about local apprenticeship programs:

• Apprenticeships through the Building Trades Union

• Apprenticeship Programs from CA Dept. of Industrial Relations

Picking  a career is not an easy decision for most people so don't feel bad if you aren't sure what you want to do after you graduate high school.  One of the easiest ways to decide on a career is to choose a job that you are naturally interested in.  Wondering how your interests can lead to a job ?  Take the Career Zone Interest Profiler Quiz to find out:  Interest Profiler Career Quiz

When you apply for a job a resume is the document that explains why you are qualified for the job.  More importantly your resume is your biggest marketing tool!!!  It tells employers why they should hire you and not someone else.

 Creating a resume as a high school student with little or no work experience can fill like a challenge.  The examples provided below may be more helpful than what you would find with a Google search.  Your teacher or Mrs. Bridges are both excellent resources if you have any resume questions.

How to Create Your First Resume

HS Resume Example #1

HS Resume Example #2