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  • The Importance of Environmental Education in High School

    The Importance of Environmental Education in High School

    In your classes, you likely learn about ideas like sustainability. You know about the importance of recycling and other practices that help to preserve the natural world. An environmental education is very important in high school to help students develop the skills they need for the future.

    Many people think of education in terms of the specific topics they learn about, such as mathematics or grammar. However, learning is about much more than that, especially when it encourages people to consider issues beyond their everyday lives. Environmental education can help high school students develop skills that they need for their future.

    The most obvious benefit of environmental education is learning about issues such as pollution, sustainability, and the effects of fossil fuels such as oil and gas. However, studying these topics can also help people to think critically. This skill is the ability to analyze what people say or write to try to decide whether they are correct or have made a mistake, or even if they are lying. Without critical thinking, people often believe false things.

    Environmental education can help with communication and problem-solving skills. As students consider how to help deal with the climate crisis, they also learn to communicate with each other and with outsiders. Students can learn to talk with politicians and the public and to write effective letters. They might even write articles for the local newspaper or a school publication. Being able to write and communicate can be helpful in many fields, such as education, psychology, and more.

    With an environmental education, students learn to think about the long-term impact of various solutions. For example, people generally consider hydropower to be better than other forms of power. However, even this type of electricity can also be harmful to the environment, such as when the dams that help produce the power also cause flooding and destroy communities rather than helping them. With an environmental education, people can learn to balance the benefits and drawbacks of various projects.

    Another important benefit can come from an environmental education. People can become very discouraged by all the bad news that they hear about the environment. However, learning more about the issues can help prevent people from imagining something worse. With greater information, people can decide what they need to do and help other people with their own decisions. For example, people who are concerned about government policies can learn what to say to officials so that they will act.

    With an education in environmental issues, high school students can also make good decisions about living sustainably. Although high school students might not be able to make major decisions like moving to a more energy-efficient home, they can still influence other choices, including a change to local rather than imported foods or other decisions that can make a difference for the environment.

    High school is a good time to learn about environmental issues. Whether your school has official courses dealing with these questions or takes a more informal approach, you can learn important concepts that can help you in the future.

     

    Bibliography

    Cambridge University Press. “Australian Journal of Environmental Education.” https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/australian-journal-of-environmental-education/article/abs/environmental-education-in-canada-contemporary-issues-future-possibilities/730AF86451E7E5EF96F3FCF34D082D71.

    Fletcher, Charlie. “The Importance of Environmental Education for a Sustainable Future.” https://earth.org/environmental-education/.

    North American Association for Environmental Education. “The Benefits of Environmental Education for K–12 Students.” https://naaee.org/programs/eeworks/benefits-k12-students.

  • Spring Is (Almost) Here!

    March is a month of transition. Winter hasn’t quite let go yet, but the days are getting longer, the sun is sticking around a little later, and soon we’ll “spring forward” with Daylight Saving Time. That extra evening light can feel like a small victory, even if losing an hour of sleep takes a few days to adjust to!

    As we move toward spring, this is a great time to reset your routines. Open the blinds earlier, get outside when you can, fuel your body with energy-boosting foods, and take advantage of the brighter afternoons to recharge. Small changes can make a big difference in your focus and mood as the school year heads into its final stretch.

    This month’s issue is packed with resources to help you move forward confidently. If you’re thinking about next steps, explore our articles on how to start thinking about your future career, jobs for introverts, and staying positive during the job search. Considering summer courses? We break down the pros and cons to help you decide.

    We’re also highlighting important conversations around mental health, including what to do if you think you may have ADHD or Asperger’s Syndrome and how to seek support if you’re feeling nervous. You’ll also find advice on avoiding social media burnout, beating Zoom fatigue, and protecting your well-being during busy seasons.

    Looking to get involved? Check out pieces on how to make informed voting decisions, activism for students with disabilities, and protecting the environment.

    Don’t forget to explore the latest scholarships, including opportunities for Indigenous students, as well as the APTN Scholarship Program for Aboriginal Media Makers. Deadlines are approaching quickly, so now’s the time to apply.

    And with March Break around the corner, we’ve included activity ideas to help you recharge before the final push toward the end of term.

    As always, for even more inspiration, be sure to check out our interviews with industry pros.

    Winter may still send the occasional snowstorm our way, but spring is close. Keep moving forward; brighter days are ahead!

    Warm regards,
    Anthony Teles
    Vice-President, Content

  • March 2026 Scholarships – Apply now!

    March 2026 Scholarships – Apply now!

    BEGIN Program
    Scholarship Value: $30,000
    Awards Available: 3
    Award Deadline: March 31, 2026

    Automotive Aftermarket Scholarships
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    Award Deadline: March 31, 2026

    Jean Chretien Scholarship
    Scholarship Value: $5,000
    Awards Available: 5
    Award Deadline: March 31, 2026

    Manulife Life Lessons Scholarship Program
    Scholarship Value: $10,000
    Awards Available: N/A
    Award Deadline: March 31, 2026

    Brock Leaders Citizenship Award
    Scholarship Value: $8,000
    Awards Available: 15
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    Clara E. Elliott Entrance Scholarship
    Scholarship Value: $10,000
    Awards Available: 2
    Award Deadline: April 15, 2026

    Easter Seals Scholarships
    Scholarship Value: $5,000
    Awards Available: 7
    Award Deadline: April 17, 2026

    Presidential Scholarship
    Scholarship Value: $40,000
    Awards Available: 2
    Award Deadline: April 25, 2026

    CABEF Scholarships
    Scholarship Value: $2,500
    Awards Available: 7
    Award Deadline: April 30, 2026

    Emmett and Loretta Regan Memorial Award
    Scholarship Value: $4,500
    Awards Available: 2
    Award Deadline: April 30, 2026

    Torquil H. Burns Scholarship
    Scholarship Value: $450
    Awards Available: 2
    Award Deadline: April 30, 2026

    Bill Eansor Award
    Scholarship Value: $10,000
    Awards Available: 1
    Award Deadline: April 30, 2026

    Air Base Property Corporation Entrance Award
    Scholarship Value: N/A
    Awards Available: 1
    Award Deadline: May 31, 2026

    Grant and Jack Burton Entrance Bursary
    Scholarship Value: $300
    Awards Available: 1
    Award Deadline: May 31, 2026

    University of New Brunswick: Win Free Tuition up to $10,400
    Scholarship Value: $10,400
    Awards Available: 1
    Award Deadline: June 1, 2026

    Algonquin College Tuition Contest
    Scholarship Value: $5,000
    Awards Available: 1
    Award Deadline: July 31, 2026

    Western Continuing Admission Scholarship of Excellence for Black Students
    Scholarship Value: $6,000
    Awards Available: 30
    Award Deadline: Ongoing

    Western Continuing Admission Scholarship of Excellence for Indigenous Students
    Scholarship Value: $6,000
    Awards Available: 30
    Award Deadline: Ongoing

  • Indigenous Student Scholarships for March 2026

    Indigenous Student Scholarships for March 2026

    National Indigenous Scholarship Program
    Scholarship Value: $50,000
    Awards Available: 5
    Award Deadline: March 14, 2026

    Norah and Calvin Banks Science Scholarship
    Scholarship Value: $1,000
    Awards Available: 1
    Award Deadline: March 15, 2026

    Kathleen Blinkhorn Aboriginal Student Scholarship
    Scholarship Value: $2,000
    Awards Available: 5
    Award Deadline: May 1, 2026

    Western Continuing Admission Scholarship of Excellence for Indigenous Students
    Scholarship Value: $6,000
    Awards Available: 30
    Award Deadline: Ongoing

  • Energy-Boosting Foods Every Student Must Know

    Energy-Boosting Foods Every Student Must Know

    Being a student can take its toll on anyone. All the late nights studying for exams, all the stress in dealing with pop quizzes, and all the pressure to maintain good grades are no easy feat. It’s only normal to feel run-down by the third class of the day if you have a lot on your plate.

    The secret may just be in these energy-boosting foods. Take a look:

    Bananas

    Bananas are so common in our daily life that they seem to be an unlikely suspect when it comes to foods for energy. However, it turns out that they might be one of the best options if you need some battery recharging. For one, they are an excellent source for carbohydrates, potassium, and vitamin B6, all of which can enhance your energy levels.

    Brown Rice

    If you like rice meals, it’s ideal to go for the brown option rather than the white one. For one, brown rice is a healthier alternative as it’s less processed than white rice, which means it sustains more of its nutritional values. One cup of brown rice contains 3.5 grams of fibre and can give you the 88% required manganese, which is an enzyme that helps break down carbohydrates and proteins for energy. In addition, rely on brown rice to maintain your sugar levels so that you can avoid a “sugar crash.”

    Sweet Potatoes

    Sweet potatoes may not be as popular as their potato counterpart, but they offer far more in nutritional benefits. For one, they contain fibre as well as vitamin A, which can help boost energy levels. More and more food shops are recognizing these benefits, so that’s good news for you. This means that instead of having unhealthy French fries, you can have sweet potato fries as an alternative.

    Apples

    We’ve all heard the saying “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” and to some extent, it really is true. Apples are a good source of carbohydrates and fibres, as well as natural sugars, all of which can provide a more reliable energy release.

    Dark Chocolate

    If you have a sweet tooth, avoiding chocolate can be torture. It’s okay to indulge in chocolates once in a while, but if you must do it often, go for the healthier version, which is dark chocolate. These have a higher cocoa content than regular or milk chocolate and therefore offer more benefits. The cocoa aids in increasing blood flow and promotes antioxidants, which in turn reduce mental fatigue and even boost moods.

    Avocados

    Avocados are considered to be the Superman of all the fruits because it seems to have all the significant health benefits that we all need – no other fruit can match up to what they can offer. For one, they are rich in healthy fats, which enhance optimal blood fat levels and promote absorption of nutrients. Another thing that makes them super is that they’re rich in fiber which means they can help sustain your energy levels.

    Nuts

    Nuts have always been thought of as a go-to food when you have hunger pangs, something to fill your tummy, but nothing sweet like a chocolate bar or salty like potato chips. Reach for nuts all you want because they offer great benefits for your health. They are high in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids and antioxidants, which can raise energy levels. Your best options are almonds, walnuts, and cashews.

    When you have a lot to juggle, it’s normal to feel energy deep from time to time. Good thing you can get an energy spike with the above-mentioned foods! Go ahead and indulge yourself.

    SOURCES:

    https://www.businessinsider.com/10-foods-to-boost-energy-2013-9

    https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/energy-boosting-foods

    https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/eating-to-boost-energy

  • It’s A Job Hunt Life: How To Stay Positive and Productive During the Job Search (French version available)

    It’s A Job Hunt Life: How To Stay Positive and Productive During the Job Search (French version available)

    Job searching can be exhausting, especially if you’ve never done it before. It can be tedious to scroll through job listings, tinker with your resume, and fill out application forms – only to never hear back from the hiring manager. Everyone has felt discouraged, anxious, or frustrated with the process at some point, but there are steps you can take to ensure that your experience is productive and positive. Use this article as a guide to a more active, results-oriented job search that will help you expand your professional network, secure more interviews, and feel more confident as a job candidate.

    Create a Professional Online Presence

    Many teenagers use social media to chat with friends and share pictures, stories, and personal updates. But did you know that 70 percent of hiring managers use social media to screen job applicants? That means that for every ten companies you apply to, 7 of them will review your social media and assess whether you’re right for the role based on what you post.

    During your job search, spend some time cleaning up your social media profiles. Imagine yourself sitting in a job interview with a hiring manager scrolling through your Instagram, TikTok or Twitter accounts. What would they think about you? How would you explain the decision-making that went into each post? Be sure to use professional profile pictures and avoid potentially offensive language. And remember that once something is on the internet, it’s out in the world forever.

    You may also want to create a LinkedIn page. LinkedIn is a professional platform that can help you meet people in a field or academic program of interest, review personalized job listings, and highlight your skills to potential employers. Include a link to your profile on your resume and cover letter to allow hiring managers to find you more quickly. Use the platform to connect with people you know and send personalized requests to people you want to know. You never know who could present you with a great job lead.

    Build Your Resume

    The more experience you have, the easier it is to land your dream job. This situation can seem frustratingly paradoxical; it’s like you need to have a job already, just to get a better one. But paid work isn’t the only way to build your resume. Volunteer work, extra-curricular activities, unpaid internships, and training courses can help you stand out from other job seekers. In addition, you can use volunteer opportunities to experiment with different industries, fields, and job roles before fully committing to paid work.

    In short, whether you’re in high school or just starting university, it’s a good idea to get involved by joining clubs, participating in school events, and volunteering on campus.

    Start Networking

    Only 20 percent of jobs are advertised through official job listings. The remaining 80 percent are promoted by word-of-mouth within personal and professional networks. If you want to expand your job search opportunities, you need to build your network.

    As previously mentioned, social media and LinkedIn can be invaluable networking tools. You can use status updates to show that you’re actively looking for work and apply directly to companies and hiring departments from your phone or computer. In addition, you can reach out to previous employers or volunteer supervisors to ask for a reference.

    The concept of networking may seem intimidating, but it’s just a matter of talking to people. Who do you know? What do they do for a living? What resources can they provide? Let people know that you’re looking for work and ask whether they have any advice for you. You’d be surprised at how willing people are to share insights, give recommendations, and facilitate meetings with other professional contacts. Show interest in their careers, and they’ll likely return the favour by helping you out.

    It’s a Long-Term Process

    Although job searching can be stressful, it’s a skill that will serve you throughout your life. Finding the right opportunity – that is, one that meets your goals, matches your skillset, and brings you happiness – is often a long journey. But these steps can help you feel confident and productive while you figure things out. To recap:

    • Present yourself as someone that you would want to hire.
    • Get involved and learn new things.
    • Talk to people, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

     

    References

    Demers, J. 10 Things You Should Do While You’re Looking for Work. Inc. https://www.inc.com/jayson-demers/10-things-you-should-do-while-you-re-looking-for-work.html.

    Faires, L. Do Potential Employers Look at Your Social Media Accounts Before Hiring? Liberty Staffing Services. https://www.libertystaffing.ca/blog/do-potential-employers-look-at-your-social-media-accounts-before-hiring#:~:text=According%20to%20a%20recent%20study,job%20candidates%20before%20hiring%20them.

  • The Dangers of Always Being on Social Media and How to Beat the Addiction (French version available)

    The Dangers of Always Being on Social Media and How to Beat the Addiction (French version available)

    There’s no doubt that social media is addictive. From seeing what friends or celebrities/influencers are doing to watching the “likes” increase on your latest post, these without a doubt can be enjoyable pastimes. Generally speaking, checking social media isn’t necessarily unhealthy (depending on everyone’s individual situation), as many use it for multiple purposes that could be beneficial, e.g. keeping in touch with loved ones living far away. However, it’s still important that you’re aware of its other implications.

    Consider the following questions: Have you ever found yourself continuously scrolling through your social media feed(s) without realizing hours have passed? Throughout the day, do you constantly have the urge to reach for your device and see if anything new has been posted?

    If you’re concerned about the dangers of excessive social media usage, here’s some information about them and ways you can beat the addiction:

    What Are The Dangers?

    It Could Negatively Impact Your Mental Health

    One of the most glaring issues surrounding this topic is how it can affect people’s mental health. Oftentimes, seeing others putting their best moments on social media may spark feelings of insecurity and the need to compare their lives to our own. But also, seeing the negative posted as well as the positive could seriously dampen a person’s mood, especially if they’re consuming it on a regular basis.

    Although many networking sites, such as Facebook, have put some measures in place to hinder anyone from publishing harmful content online, they aren’t perfect and can’t remove every single post nor closely monitor an organization’s or individual’s activity all the time. Plus, the fact that these platforms make it so simple to do so doesn’t help. This situation essentially shows that it’s inevitable for users to be exposed to negativity.

    Many Attribute Sleep Deprivation to Using Social Media

    The depressing thoughts we have could follow us into the night, likely disrupting our sleeping habits and leading to a lack of crucial energy.

    Overall, checking mobile devices just before going to sleep is not a healthy routine either. It’s not just how much time is spent on social media, but also at what time of day you consume the content. Think of the circumstances this way: Why are we stimulating our minds during these hours when we should be relaxing and winding down to get some rest? Everyone needs sleep in order to function properly throughout the day.

    How Does One Beat the Addiction?

    Take a Good Look at Your Social Media Consumption Habits

    The initial step to solving any issue is acknowledging the issue. Social media has become such a normal part of our day-to-day existence that sometimes, there doesn’t appear to be anything inherently wrong. This is where exercising awareness comes into play. We must hold ourselves accountable and ensure social media won’t permeate our lives in a way that diminishes the quality of how we engage with everyday activities or interactions that occur offline.

    Keep Track of the Time You Spend on It

    Going on social media via their apps is extremely popular as it is the most convenient method of access. There are plenty of apps available for downloading that can track how long you spend on social media. Each app will have its own helpful features. Try different ones and see which works best for you.

    You Could Delete Your Social Media Apps from Your Device(s)

    Temporarily deleting the apps from your phone, tablet, etc. is a good option to prevent the temptation of checking, as you’ll know the apps won’t be there.

    In Extreme Cases, Deleting Your Account(s) Might Be the Best Option

    In cases where the suggestions stated above don’t work, deleting some of your accounts might even be the best way to beat the addiction. Think of it as starting fresh. Removing social media from your life could give you the push you need to effectively address the addiction.

     

    References

    health essentials. “Put the Phone Away! 3 Reasons Why Looking At It Before Bed Is A Bad Habit.” 3 Reasons Screen Time Before Bed is Harmful – Cleveland Clinic.

    Schimmele, Christopher, et al. “Canadians’ assessments of social media in their lives.” Canadians’ assessments of social media in their lives (statcan.gc.ca).

  • What do I do if I think I have Asperger’s Syndrome or ADHD? A look at the symptoms of each and steps you can take to get professional help, especially if you are nervous. (French version available)

    What do I do if I think I have Asperger’s Syndrome or ADHD? A look at the symptoms of each and steps you can take to get professional help, especially if you are nervous. (French version available)

    By Bhargavi Venkataraman

    What is Asperger’s Syndrome?

    Asperger’s syndrome is a developmental disorder that is characterized by difficulty with connecting with others socially, as well as inflexible and repetitive behaviours and thinking patterns.

    Although children and teens with Asperger’s are generally able to converse with others and perform in school settings optimally, they have trouble when it comes to nuanced social situations and forms of communication (e.g. body language and sarcasm).

    Lastly, those with Asperger’s can get fixated on a specific topic or set of interests to the point that the obsession interferes with their normal lives. Although many people still use Asperger’s to refer to this syndrome, it is important to note that its name has been officially changed, and it is now part of a condition called Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

    What is ADHD? 

    Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most prominent neurodevelopmental disorders in children. It is characterized by difficulty with paying attention, managing impulsive tendencies, and hyperactivity. There are three key presentations of this disorder:

    1. Predominantly Inattentive Presentation – The individual has trouble with:
      • Completing a task 
      • Paying attention to details 
      • Keeping up with instructions and conversations
    2. Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation – The individual has trouble with:
      • Sitting still 
      • Paying attention 
      • Listening to directions 
      • Controlling impulsivity
    3. Combined Presentation – The individual displays symptoms of the other two presentation types equally.

    Although the causes and risk-factors of ADHD cannot be fully explained, genetics, brain injury, alcohol/drug use during pregnancy, and low-birth weight are all thought to play key contributing factors.

    It is critical to note that, despite commonly held views, research shows that excessive sugar intake, television watching, poor parenting, or other social/environmental conditions do not cause ADHD.

    Getting a Diagnosis 

    Diagnosis for both of these disorders should be made by professionals. If you, your parents, teachers, or peers frequently notice any of the above symptoms, it is recommended that you seek these professionals for additional guidance. 

    Some options include pediatricians, child psychologists or psychiatrists, neurologists, and therapists. They can help find ways to cope and manage symptoms, build a support system, and consider potential treatment options.

    Getting Treatment for Asperger’s Syndrome

    For Asperger’s syndrome, individuals could consider social skills training and occupational therapy to learn basic life skills, and educational therapies for a more structured education curriculum. 

    There is also a range of behavioural and communication therapies to aid in the social, language, and behavioural issues associated with Asperger’s and medications.

    Getting Treatment for ADHD 

    For ADHD, the main treatment course involves a personalized combination of medication, educational and skills training, and formal psychological counselling. 

    Common types of medication prescribed include stimulants like methylphenidate or amphetamine, non-stimulants such as atomoxetine, and specific antidepressants like bupropion.

    Common types of psychotherapies are cognitive behavioural therapy and family/marital therapy, so that the individual’s loved ones can better learn to support them.

    Finally, it is vital to recognize that both the disease causes and treatment plans differ largely according to the individual’s personal background, preferences, and overall situation. Although there is no “cure” for either disorder, it is important to recognize that they are treatable. Early diagnosis and action are crucial in making the treatment process better. Remember that both conditions vary according to the individual’s personal background, preferences, and overall situation. Building a good support system with friends, family, and helpful professionals will help. Keeping a positive mindset and knowing that there are options out there is key!

     

    Resources

    1. Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)—Diagnosis and treatment—Mayo Clinic. (2018, January 6). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adult-adhd/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350883
    2. Asperger’s Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment. (n.d.). Retrieved September 3, 2022, from https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/aspergers-syndrome
    3. Autism spectrum disorder—Diagnosis and treatment—Mayo Clinic. (2019, June 22). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/autism-spectrum-disorder/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20352934
  • Career Profile: Singer (French version available)

    Career Profile: Singer (French version available)

    By Julia Skoczypiec

    Do you enjoy singing? Whether you put on stadium-worthy performances in the shower or hum along to your favourite tunes in the car, everyone’s a little bit of a singer in one way or another. But have you ever considered a career as a singer? If so, it is not as daunting as many make it seem.

    Singers are trained musical professionals who perform at various venues in many different styles. Some singing styles include opera, jazz, pop, hip-hop, and country. While many often associate singers with celebrity status, there are career opportunities for singers in Canada that pay the bills without having to walk the red carpet. From larger live events like wedding receptions, musicals, orchestras, and outdoor festivals, to more private performances at birthday parties and restaurants, singers work in many diverse locations to entertain vast audiences.

    Most of the time, singers work on their own schedules and travel to different locations every week. These are the main pros of the career. However, a self-made schedule comes with a lot of responsibilities. Singers constantly market themselves through social media, interviews, and websites to find and book singing ‘gigs’ (or performances). Many singers also work in studios to record songs for distribution by record labels. While working hours vary, singers usually perform on weekdays, holidays, and at night. These can be cons to the career as hours are irregular. Also, finding performance venues and audiences can become challenging and impact a singer’s overall income.

    Singers can also work as music teachers. In this way, singers often avoid self-employment and work in one location — such as a school, a music academy, or privately in their own homes. In doing so, a singer’s income and working hours become more regular. Those who work as teachers are required to know proper singing techniques and music theory. As a result, a bachelor’s degree in music from a college or university is often required.

    While postsecondary education is not essential for singers who perform in venues like restaurants and weddings, further education is necessary for those who perform in orchestras, classical music choirs, or in plays and musicals put on by professional theatre companies. Some bachelor’s degrees and diplomas in music are more theory-based, meaning you study sheet music reading and high-level techniques. These are great for classical and jazz-style singers. Other programs are more performance-based. These often include singing, dancing, and acting all in one program.

    The average hourly rate for singers in Canada is $52. Annually, this equates to approximately $107,000. However, this amount can vary depending on the number of gigs a singer performs during the year. For singers who are music teachers, the average salary is $60,000.

    Singers often work closely with instrumentalists, composers, producers, and other singers. This means that before any performances, singers must set time aside for rehearsals. While rehearsing is often time-consuming and tiresome, it is through collaborations with other artists that singers are able to advance in their careers and connect with broader audiences. Through continuous practice, singers are able to challenge their own vocal abilities and meet personal goals that only come from the joys of performing.

     

    Sources

    Economic Research Institute. “Singer Salary in Canada.” https://www.erieri.com/salary/job/singer/canada.

    Indeed. “What Is a Singing Career? 11 Careers in the Singing Industry.” https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/singing-career.

    Talent.com. “Music Teacher average salary in Canada 2022.” https://ca.talent.com/salary?job=music+teacher.

    Your Free Career Test. “What does a Singer do?” https://www.yourfreecareertest.com/singer/.

  • How to Start Thinking About Your Future Career (French version available)

    How to Start Thinking About Your Future Career (French version available)

    “What do you want to be when you grow up?”  This is a question nearly every young person has been asked at some point by family, friends, or teachers.  For many teens and young adults, this is a question to which they don’t yet have an answer.  That’s okay!

    It can be hard to decide so early in your life what you want to do for your career.  Many students reach high school, and even college or university, without knowing what they want their career to be in the long term.

    But you can’t simply ignore the question and hope for the best.  It is important to give your future career some thought because that way, you will have a goal to work towards when it comes to other parts of your life, particularly your education.

    Assess Your Skills and Interests

    The first step is taking a look at your existing skills and interests.  There are lots of self-assessment quizzes available online or through your school’s guidance office. Most feature a series of questions to answer, which will help to illuminate your strongest interests and skills and show how these align with possible jobs and career paths.

    You can also simply spend time thinking through on your own.  Do you prefer writing assignments or solving math problems?  Are you energetic and physically active, or do you prefer quiet, relaxed activities?  Do you like being in large groups of people, or do you work better in small groups or solo?  What are your favourite hobbies or extracurricular activities?  What are the things you’re most interested in: nature, sports, books, video games, dancing, building things, or perhaps outer space?

    Figuring out what grabs your attention and imagination and won’t let go is a good starting place to determine your future career.

    Speak with Your School Guidance Office

    High schools, colleges, and universities all have guidance offices for exactly this reason. They offer counsellors to speak to, as well as tons of reference materials about different careers, industries, and the educational and skill requirements to work in specific jobs.  They may also be able to direct you to local career and hiring fairs, where you can speak with people from many different businesses and industries to learn about jobs in those fields.

    Talk to People

    Often, students are only exposed to the careers of people in their immediate circle, including family members and school staff.  Try to find people whom you can ask about their career – these can be friends of your relatives, your friends’ parents, or adults you know through places you spend time in, such as libraries, sports, and extracurricular activities.  You can also find co-op placements through your school that will give you the opportunity to experience different types of jobs, so you can get a feel for what you might enjoy.

    Visit Your Local Library

    Public libraries have an entire section dedicated to career planning, and will almost certainly have books targeted at teens and young adults that tackle the future career question.  You can also explore fiction and nonfiction books featuring characters in different careers, to get a sense of what those careers might be like.

    Picture Your Future Lifestyle

    Deciding what you want your life to look like can also help you narrow down possible careers.  Do you want to live in a town or a city?  What about another country?  Would you like a large house or condo, or somewhere cozy?  Do you want a new car every few years, or would you be happy with the same vehicle for a decade?  Would you travel regularly, or stay local?

    Your answers to these questions will help guide you to careers that will support the lifestyle you want, whether you want something high-earning, middle-class, or a career that lets you travel the world.  Just remember not to get too caught up in the money side of things, as finding a career that you enjoy is still the ideal goal.

    Don’t Be Afraid to Take Your Time Deciding

    It may seem like you have to make a decision right away, but you don’t!  Take as much time as you need to investigate possible careers and find the path that’s right for you.  Just be sure to make good use of your time by researching careers, developing a variety of strong skills, and seeking out as many exciting experiences as you can.

     

    Sources:

    CollegeBoard. “5 Ways to Find Career Ideas.” https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/get-started/know-yourself/5-ways-to-find-career-ideas.

    Indeed. “Career Exploration Activities: How to Help Your Students Find Jobs They’ll Love.” https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/career-exploration-activities.

    Stockwell, Carly. “How to Choose a Career.” College Factual. https://students.collegefactual.com/choosing-a-career.

    Weishaar, Christina. “5 Ways to Help High School Students Pick a Career.” Connections Academy. https://www.connectionsacademy.com/support/resources/article/5-ways-help-high-school-students-pick-careers.