Getting All Students to Think About College

A great resource website is up and running, KnowHow2Go.org, and it effectively and clearly lays out the case for going to college. You should take a few minutes yourself to review some of the facts and tips (especially the ones for mentors).

Teachers often think most students have already had someone talk about preparing for college with them. That may be true for some, but likely there are many others who are under-informed to make good planning decisions.

Remember, it’s not just preparing for a 4-year college or university. Many of today’s most in-demand jobs require degrees from community colleges and technical schools and the preparation for going to these schools is nearly the same.

Here are a few ideas for sharing this website:

1. Use as a discussion following a quiz or test
Take 5-10 minutes during class to project the website using an LCD projector. Explain how your class is helping them prepare for both college and a future career. Encourage students to write down the site address and to ask questions about preparing for college.

2. Post a link with description on your webpage
Many of you have a webpage on your school’s site. On your page add a note about the importance of college for all careers and post a link to the KnowHow2Go website.

3. Add a link to your email signature
Your email signature likely includes your contact information and might include a favorite quote of the school’s mission statement. If you’re allowed (check your IT policies) add a link to the KnowHow2Go website with a statement encouraging everyone to check it out.

4. Include in notes and progress reports home to parents
Use communication to parents as an opportunity to help them prepare their students for life after school, too. Share the website address and tell them about the great resources available on the site.

5. Provide “prizes” to students who look up the site on their own time
For fun, take time to make a virtual scavenger hunt using the site. Challenge students to find all the information on the website. When students have found all the information provide prizes of pencils, stickers, etc.

Resources like this website are excellent ways to help students help themselves in their college and career planning.

Career Development tip for the week of December 15, 2008