Preparing for a career
Tips for parents supporting career exploration
Parents want the best for their children, and can heavily influence their children’s career decisions. Studies show that when children feel loved and supported by their parents, they have more confidence in their abilities to find career-related information and make career-related decisions.
In one study, five parent behaviours were found to significantly influence career decision-making and self-efficacy scores:
- Express interest in various teenage issues that are important to their children.
- Tell their children they have high expectations for their career.
- Encourage their children to make their own decisions.
- Tell their children they are proud of them.
- Help their children understand the results from career tests or interest assessments they have taken. It is never too early to start preparing for post-secondary!
Post-secondary research
Once you have some ideas about what direction you would like to go in, research post-secondary programs that will get you there.
Program Search – CanLearn.ca
You can use this resource from the Government of Canada to get detailed profiles, requirements, application and admission information for programs of study at Canadian CEGEPs, colleges and universities
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Youth Digital Gateway – Education Planning Resource
Find tools to build your future. Everything from skills quizzes to resume and career planning help, student budgeting and loan repayment tips.
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University and Colleges Fair
Consider visiting in person events such as the Ontario Universities’ Fair or the Ontario Colleges Fair to learn about several institutions at once.
Once you’ve narrowed it down, consider a campus tour.
Read MoreYour Academic Record
Of course, this should all be combined with a strong academic record.
- Talk to your guidance counselor and make sure you are enrolled in courses that align with your interests and intended field of study
- If you need additional support, seek out tutoring opportunities, such as:
Ontario Educational Resource Bank (OERB)
Access to thousands of online resources to support student learning. Contact your school’s librarian to get login information.
Read MoreMyBlueprint Education Planner
The high school course planner allows students to visually plan towards graduation requirements while also discovering their eligibility for post-secondary pathways in Canada.
Read MoreAuthorized Schools
You may consider enrolling in an International Baccalaureate (IB) program, which gives you the opportunity to earn post-secondary credits in high school. You can get more information here
Financial Planning
Don’t forget the financials! Research and apply for scholarships, and speak to parents or guardians about what the options are early on.
Scholarships for Black or racialized youth:
