Sure, high school is hectic, but you still need to take time to wonder about your future beyond graduation — what college to attend, what field to study, what career to pursue.

Here are a few suggestions from one of Algonquin College's experts to help you address those questions. "We want students to develop confidence in their ability to succeed at college and gain clarity about their pathway to success," says Tracy Norris, Acting Manager in the College's Academic Partnerships Office.

1. 1. Talk to your school guidance counsellor about your interests, ambitions, and the careers that might suit you. This conversation should be ongoing long before grade 12 to help you focus your thinking. Your guidance counsellor can also advise you on scholarships and financial aid, or check out ScholarshipsCanada for a searchable database.
2. 2. Research colleges that interest you. Consider their programs and how they match your interests. For those special few programs that make the cut, cross reference admission requirements to ensure you qualify. SchoolFinder can be helpful here.
3. 3. Visit college campuses if you can. Many colleges hold special days when high school students can take part in campus activities. Algonquin hosts Open House events to introduce prospective students to the College, and the College's Connections program brings grade 8 and grade 10 students to campus to explore courses — everything from cooking to IT. If you can't visit campus, check out a Virtual Tour.
4. 4. Consider taking a college-level course or getting work experience through your school's co-op program. Some schools help grade 11 and grade 12 students make the transition from high school to post-secondary education with a Specialist High Skills Major program in which students take unique courses while satisfying high school diploma requirements. Algonquin itself offers a Dual Credit program where high school students can earn both high school credits and College credits towards a certificate, diploma or degree program.
5. 5. Get advice directly from colleges you're considering. Algonquin offers guidance to prospective students on program choices and career possibilities. This includes Career Clarity Workshops, access to career advisors, and even one-on-one career counselling. An online module helps you focus on what you're looking for in a college program or a career.

Last but not least, enjoy your high school years. Peel away from your homework and spend time with friends and family. Before you know it, you will be off to college starting a new chapter in your life.