Options to get ahead while still in high school:
A career driver’s education class

Once you’ve explored opportuni¬ties for the road ahead, look for ways in your own high school to earn college credit, technical training, or industry certification while still in school. It’s kind of like driver’s education class where you learn about the rules of the road before getting behind the wheel. You become a better and more advanced driver.

Early College Scholars
The Early College Scholars program gives eligible students the opportunity to complete their high school diploma while earning at least 15 hours of transferable credits toward a college degree. Students can earn credits through dual enrollment programs, Advanced Placement courses, and International Baccalaureate courses at their high schools or through the Virginia Virtual Advanced Placement School located online at www.doe.virginia.gov/VDOE/technology/VAPS.html. One semester’s worth of credits earned before you leave high school means one less semester you will need to pay for after you graduate. That can translate into big savings. You can learn more about the program at the Virginia Mentor Web site at www.virginiamentor.org.

Get Training Now
Your high school may offer career and technical training in several fields such as computer technology, health professions, automotive, accounting, automated technology, manufacturing, construction, culinary arts, child development, landscaping, heating and air conditioning, and electrical systems. Some high school technical programs also offer apprenticeship opportunities.

Formal training can help in your job search. “A certificate along with your school classes looks good on a résumé,” says Mike Rose, principal of the Chesterfield Technical Center in Chesterfield County.

High School Industry Credentialing
Maybe you want to go directly into a job after high school graduation. Studying to obtain certification or licensure in a specific field can get you ahead. Industry certification programs in high school can increase your earning power and marketability in the job market. Certification also provides re-cognition of your workplace skills that is universally accepted in the business world.

Industry certification provides marketable skills that often translate to job opportunities or build on future training. “With some certifications you can go directly to work,” says Gordon Creasy, an industry certification and licensure specialist for the Virginia Department of Education. “The automotive field is a great example. A cosmetology license is always a strong one. The C.N.A. (certified nursing assistant) continues to be popular as well, and there are jobs out there waiting for these students.”

There are more than 4,000 different types of licensure and certifications. Many require additional training and experience. Industries that offer certificate or licensed positions include information technology, electronics, heating and air conditioning, culinary arts and nursing.