Potential Magazine Feb/March 2013 | Page 8

parent-to-parent 80% of college students switch their major. “We set up five different job shadowing opportunities for our eighth-grader. He was more prepared for high school registr ation and looking towards college.” -Anita Carter (mother of 3) 3.5: computer science or computer programming courses during number of times high school for more preparaan average tion for college courses. student changes Job shadowing sometimes majors. is more beneficial in showing your teen what they don’t want to do, rather than what they want to do. Also, strengths and weaknesses in major-related subjects should be considered. If your middle school student is interested in computer programming but struggles with technology and math classes in high school, it may be a sign that it’s not a good fit as a college major. They could still work in the computer/technology field but in a different area. Ideally, you want your teen to find his or her perfect career path from the start, but it is often a trial-and-error process. The earlier they begin, the more time there is for additional experiences. Know a Teen with Pictured above (left to right): Over the years, students at Saint James have shadowed hundreds of professionals, throughout the community. “The program, now more than 20 years old, has better prepared students to make decisions regarding their eventual careers,” says Martha Cavanaugh, one of the STJ program planners. A group of St. James students visit the WSFA newsroom. Students observe veterinarian Dr. Zeb King during surgery. Rachel Rampy shadows an accountant for career day. The Montgomery Academy Senior Parker Turner spends the day in the shoes of a second grade teacher. Follow up If your teen has a great shadowing experience, he or she should keep the professional they worked with as a career mentor. Professionals in job shadowing programs often want to help young people with their career searches. Those already in the profession are the best sources for learning what education and training is necessary to enter that field upon graduation and suggestions to be ahead of the curve. A mentor can also help SUBSCRIBE to Potential Magazine highlights high-achieving 13-17 years old teens in each issue. To Become a Teen Spotlight: Download the application from PotentialMagazine.com. Submit the application, with school administrator or community leader sign off. If selected, an interview and photo shoot will be scheduled for you and your parents. Areas of Achievement: Academics Leadership Business Sports Philanthropic The Arts Overcoming Adversity Citizenship and Community Service Teen Spotlights are eligible for a $500 Achievement Scholarship 8 or 12 Issues for just $21.95 Each issue DELIVERED to YOUR door! SIGN-UP @ www.PotentialMagazine.co