Middle School: Exploring Your Path

Remember: Most things in middle school will not be included in your college application or résumé. The exceptions would be:

• High school–level courses (Algebra, Geometry, World Languages, etc.). These do count toward your high school GPA and will appear on your transcript.
  
  

Middle school is the perfect time to explore your interests, discover possible career paths, and start thinking about what kind of high school experience you want. Use this time to try different clubs, activities, and subjects so you begin to see what excites you.

Articles & Resources

• EFSC Career Coach – Interest Inventory – Quick quiz to learn about careers that match your skills and interests.

• MyPlan Career Assessment – Career personality tests and interest inventories to help you explore options.

• FloridaShines – Career Planning – Explore Florida’s career clusters, salaries, and the education needed for different jobs.

• College Board – Explore Careers – Connect your interests to possible majors and careers.

• ACT Aspire – College & Career Readiness for Middle School – Learn how early skills connect to high school and beyond.

• Florida DOE – Career & Technical Education – Programs that connect high school coursework to future jobs.

• Start Preparing for College in Middle School (College Board)

• College Planning Tips for Middle Schoolers (College Covered)

• Common App Tips for Middle Schoolers

• Tips for Middle School Students -  A guide with advice for students and families, including practical steps for exploring careers, building study skills, and preparing for high school success. 

Checklist for Middle Schoolers

• Take high school–level courses seriously (they go on your transcript).

• Explore at least two career interest inventories (EFSC Career Coach, Xello, MyPlan).

• Try out different clubs, electives, or activities to see what you enjoy.

• Practice strong study and organizational habits.

• Talk with parents/guardians about future goals and high school choices.

• Volunteer or join community service activities to explore new interests.

Videos & Interactive Tools

• FloridaShines College 101 Webinars – Free online sessions about college planning.

• Khan Academy Middle School Resources – Academic skills that strengthen preparation for high school.

• ACT Learning Resources – Sample questions and lessons to connect middle school learning with college readiness.

Special Note for Student-Athletes

If you’re a serious athlete planning to play in college, consider creating an NCAA Eligibility Center profile before starting your freshman year. This ensures you stay on track with required courses and eligibility standards.

Tip for Students: Think of middle school as a time to try things out — join clubs, take electives, volunteer, and explore. The experiences you enjoy now will help guide your high school choices later.