Have you asked yourself questions about your future? Do you know what your educational goals are? Try to answer some of the following questions, but don't worry if you are unsure of your answers; use them as food for thought.

• How many months or years beyond high school do you think you will spend in college?
• Do you want to study broad areas in order to gain more general knowledge?
• Do you want to learn specific skills so you can work in a trade?
• What are your favorite subjects in school?
• Do you know any adults who have jobs you'd especially like doing?
• Does your high school offer testing to help you learn what careers your interests and talents would lead to?
• Have you talked about family finances with your parents?
• Do you and your parents have a plan to pay for college?
• Are there books in your school, local library, or community center that might help you find out more about careers and college?

Make a list of other questions that come to mind.

National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators
Opening Doors of Educational Opportunity
Copyright © 2004 by the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators.
All rights reserved.
Updated April 2004.