When making a big decision about your future,
it is often helpful to hear from someone who has been in your shoes.
For those students who don't know if they want to go
to a traditional four year college, here is the
perspective of Jamie Foryes, a woman in her twenties who had the same concerns.
I spoke with Jamie about her school experience
and she had some advice to offer. Jamie attended Drexel University
- a four year college located in downtown Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania. She said that she was looking
for an education in an area she was interested in, but which also helped
prepare her for a more specific trade. She majored in Fashion Design.
At the time, they were doing a pilot program for
more visual learners. Jamie took both math and physics classes that
were designed for visual learners. She said that with the
right instructor, this method of teaching was
much more productive for her and her learning style.
Going to Drexel also meant that Jamie participated
in their renowned co-op program. Although she didn't attend a vocational
school or take an apprenticeship, co-op is a similar
experience. Jamie was grateful for the
opportunity to go out into the working world and gain experience while
she was still enrolled in school. She had two internships with two
different
companies. These interactions with employers
eased the transition to the working world and into adulthood.
Jamie is now considering returning to school,
but is anxious because she does not learn much by reading textbooks.
She is looking for another experience which allows her to
learn while 'doing', not just 'listening'
or 'reading'. She believes that other experiences are important for
visual or hands-on learners.
When you are going through the end of high school
transition, keep in mind that there are many options. Individuals
learn in different ways, and no one way is better then another. Consider
all of your choices before deciding.