GET THE JOB YOU WANT
Faster and Easier

WELCOME!

Helping people get good jobs is what we are all about. We offer many resources for finding a job now. Or you might want more education and training to get a better job. The choice is yours.

If You are Having Trouble Reading This,
Tell a Staff Person Right Now.

There are many roads to a good job. We will not tell you which one to take. Instead, you are in control. Using the resources here, you may be able to set a career goal and achieve it without help from staff. Or you may need to talk with a staff person sometimes. We are here for you every step of the way.

YOU MAY QUALIFY FOR EXTRA HELP.

Most resources here may be used by anyone. But we get some special money every year to offer extra help to people who may really need it. This can include free job training, child care and transportation help, counseling and other things.

On the next page is a form. If you answer "yes" to any of the statements on this form, tell a staff person right away. You may qualify for extra services. Once you have finished this form, go to the next page, which begins "Start Now to Get the Job You Want."

FIND OUT IF YOU QUALIFY FOR EXTRA HELP

Finding a job is harder for some people than others so they need more help. We get extra money every year for this purpose. If you qualify, you can get extra help such as:

1. Free education and training at local schools and colleges.

2. Free or low-cost transportation to school or work.

3. Free or low-cost child care.

4. Special classes in getting and keeping good jobs.

Directions

Read each of these statements. Put a checkmark beside any that are true about you. If you answer "yes" to any statement, tell a staff person right away. You may get some extra help.

____ Yes My reading, writing or math skills are not so good.

____ Yes I do not have a high school diploma or GED.

____ Yes I get checks from the government for welfare or other reasons.

____ Yes I have been arrested and fingerprinted at least once.

____ Yes I have a disability of some kind.

____ Yes I do not have a place to call home.

____ Yes I was laid off from my most recent job.

____ Yes I am under 22 years old and a parent or pregnant.

____ Yes I have been out of work at least four months.

____ Yes I am age 55 or older.

____ Yes I am a veteran of the Armed Forces.

If you did not answer "yes" to any of the statements above, you are ready to move onto Step 1, which starts on the next page. If you have questions at any time, ask a staff person.

START NOW TO GET THE JOB YOU WANT

There are four steps to getting the job you want:

1. Setting a career goal.

2. Finding out about the strengths and challenges that you bring to the job search.

3. Putting together an "Action Plan" to help you with your challenges.

4. Using resources here and elsewhere to make your Action Plan succeed.

STEPS 1 AND 2: GOALS AND CHALLENGES

Take steps one and two with the following survey that you complete yourself. It helps you spot the challenges you'll face in 12 categories. Few people have challenges in all categories. But no matter what stands in your way, we can help you succeed.

1. Career Goals and Interests -- What kind of job you might like the best.

2. Career Talents -- Your natural gifts that make it easier to learn skills for a job you will enjoy.

3. Career Skills -- The job skills you have now.

4. Academics -- Reading, writing and math skills.

5. Job-Seeking Skills -- Things like finding job openings, filling out applications, interviewing and writing resumes.

6. Job-Keeping Skills -- What you need to know to get along with others and earn raises and promotions.

7. Basic Life Resources -- Food, clothing, shelter, child care, transportation and easy access to a telephone.

8. Life and Family -- Problems at home that can keep you from getting and keeping a job.

9. My Body's Health -- Any limits you might have on working caused by injuries, disabilities or other problems with the health of your body.

10. Thoughts and Feelings -- Whether you have worries about working or life in general, including mental or emotional disabilities you know about.

11. Substance Abuse -- Drug or alcohol problems that get in the way of working.

12. Legal Issues -- You might not have a driver's license or a license to practice a career. You might also face problems with the police or courts that could keep you from working.

Be honest when you take the survey. It will really help you put together an Action Plan that gets you the job you want as quickly and painlessly as possible. Read these next sections before taking the survey. You will learn how to score it and what to do next.

HOW TO SCORE YOUR CAREER SURVEY

Each section is on a separate page of the survey. In each of the 12 sections you will find a series of statements. You are asked whether you agree with each statement.

Circle "A" if you "strongly agree" with the statement.

Circle "B" if you "somewhat agree" with the statement.

Circle "C" if you "somewhat DISAGREE" with the statement.

Circle "D" if you "strongly DISAGREE" with the statement.>

Any "A" answer reveals a possible barrier to your career goal. A "B" answer means the problem might not be so serious but is still worth looking into. A "C" or "D" answer means this is an area of possible strengths. On the "Action Plan" you will find a list of resources we offer in each of the 12 categories to help you overcome any challenges.

Now you are ready to take the survey. Begin now. If you have questions or problems, talk with a staff person right away.

STEP 3: PUTTING TOGETHER AN ACTION PLAN

Your finished survey points out challenges that might stand in the way of your career goal. It also can show you areas where you've got strengths. Now it's time to make an "Action Plan" to remove the challenges one by one.

Following this page is a section called "Resources." Take a look at it now. You will see there are 12 sheets which match the 12 categories in your Career Survey. On each sheet is a list of resources. Some can be found here. Others are at other local agencies. You will see, too, that the resources are in three categories:

1. Self-help Resources: You use these by yourself. They include information about training and jobs, tests of your job interests and skills, and other materials. If you need help using these resources, a staff person will be glad to assist.

2. Group Resources: Sometimes the best way to overcome a challenge is to work with others. There are several group activities to choose from to help your finds a good job fast, test your skills and abilities, take control at home, or feel better about things in general.

3. One-on-One Help: Sometimes you may just feel lost and not know what to do about a problem.

Look at all the resources, then put a checkmark next to the resources you want to use. Then show your completed Action Plan to a staff person. He or she will go over it with you and help you make the most of the resources here and elsewhere in the community. Why not get started now? If you have questions, any staff person will be glad to help.

STEP 4: PUTTING YOUR ACTION PLAN TO WORK

When your Action Plan is done, you are ready to start using the resources offered through our one-stop center. A resource specialist can get you started. We have information and services of all kinds to help you overcome challenges in any of the 12 categories on your Career Survey. In each category you will find two basic kinds of resources:

1. Information: About job openings, high-demand careers, job-search and other classes, training opportunities and other community resources. It is all arranged so that you can look it up yourself. Ask the resource specialist if you have questions.

2. Activities: Surveys, tests, tip sheets and check sheets to help you overcome any barrier step-by-step. Some of these activities you do yourself and some are offered in groups. For some, you might want to meet one-on-one with a counselor.

We also have a Resource Room. The Resource Room has much of the information and activities that are listed on the Action Plans. The Resource Room is always staffed. If you have any question about using these resources or wish to talk with a career counselor, ask the resource specialist for help. With the right plan, nothing can hold you back! So get started!

MY JOB INTERESTS

The following 10 questions can help you determine whether you need to do career exploration and/or an interest inventory. Complete this sheet to see if you need information on choosing a job or career that's right for you.

Answer the following questions using the key shown here:

A = Strongly Agree
B = Somewhat Agree

C = Somewhat Disagree
D = Strongly Disagree

A B C D	1. One job is about as good as another.
A B C D	2. I cannot name three jobs that I am interested in doing.
A B C D	3. I do not even know how to start exploring a job I'd like.
A B C D	4. I have not talked to people who are doing the job I want.
A B C D	5. I mostly feel bored with and indifferent to the jobs I have done.
A B C D	6. I don't seem to enjoy a job the way others do.
A B C D	7. I would be reluctant to contact someone I don't know for information about career fields in which I am interested.
A B C D	8. I find that my occupation tends to make me unhappy.
A B C D	9. I believe an experienced employment counselor would have a better idea of what jobs I should apply for than I have.
A B C D	10. I have not found any type of work that I really enjoy.

Scoring:

Count the total number of A's and B's. ______________
If you have one or more, complete a Job Interest Action Plan

MY JOB TALENTS AND ABILITIES

This self-test can help you determine if you could be helped by taking an assessment of aptitude. An aptitude assessment can tell you whether or not you have a strong ability to learn how to do a specific job task.

Answer the following questions using the key shown here:

A = Strongly Agree
B = Somewhat Agree

C = Somewhat Disagree
D = Strongly Disagree

A B C D	1. I don't know what I am really good at.
A B C D	2. I have always done the same things and that's all I think I can do.
A B C D	3. I have always wanted to do other jobs but I am not sure I can.
A B C D	4. I do not have any background or experience in the field in which I want to be trained.
A B C D	5. I cannot remember taking any type of test that showed me what areas I'd be really good at.
A B C D	6. Sometimes it seems to me that others learn how to do things much more easily than I do.
A B C D	7. I think I have the ability to do anything.
A B C D	8. Learning how to do certain tasks is a real struggle for me.
A B C D	9. Sometimes I feel like the things I'm interested in doing aren't the things I'm good at.
A B C D	10. I would be interested in taking a test that would tell me what things I'm best at.

Scoring:

Count the total number of A's and B's. ______________
If you have one or more, complete a My Job and Talents Action Plan.

COMMUNICATION AND ACADEMICS

Answering these questions will help determine if you need academic services including a diploma, financial aid information, or where to go to school.

Answer the following questions using the key shown here:

A = Strongly Agree
B = Somewhat Agree

C = Somewhat Disagree
D = Strongly Disagree

A B C D	1. I have attended school/training before that did not help me.
A B C D	2. I had to leave high school before completing.
A B C D	3. I need a certificate, license, or diploma to get the job I want.
A B C D	4. I often do not understand what I read.
A B C D	5. I have trouble reading or understanding the daily newspaper.
A B C D	6. I would like to go back to school but would like some help on enrolling.
A B C D	7. I would like to get into a GED program, community college, college, or master's program.
A B C D	8. I would like to go to school but would need information on ways to pay for it.
A B C D	9. I'd like to continue my education but am not sure what is even available.
A B C D	10. I want to go to school and pretty much know where I want to go and what I want to study.

Scoring:

Count the total number of A's and B's. ______________
If you have one or more, complete a Communication and Academics Action Plan

JOB SKILLS

The following eleven questions can help assess your need for occupational skill training.

Answer the following questions using the key shown here:

A = Strongly Agree
B = Somewhat Agree

C = Somewhat Disagree
D = Strongly Disagree

A B C D	1. I don't know what skills I need to get the job I want.
A B C D	2. I don't have the skills I need to get the job I want.
A B C D	3. I don't have the experience to get the job I went to school for.
A B C D	4. My job skills are obsolete.
A B C D	5. I have to improve my skills to stay up with the latest changes in my field.
A B C D	6. I'd like to go to a vocational/technical school to learn skills I can use on the job.
A B C D	7. I have an employer who will hire me if I can just get the tools, equipment, and/or uniform I need.
A B C D	8. The only way to learn what I need to learn is actually doing the job
A B C D	9. There are job skills I don't have that I need to learn to be better able to get a job.
A B C D	10. I have an employer who will hire me if I get training.
A B C D	11. I would like to go to school to learn a trade or skill but don't have the money.

Scoring:

Count the total number of A's and B's. ______________
If you have one or more, complete an Job Skills Action Plan.

JOB SEEKING FACTORS

This self-assessment gives you information about how to look for a job.

Answer the following questions using the key shown here:

A = Strongly Agree
B = Somewhat Agree

C = Somewhat Disagree
D = Strongly Disagree

A B C D	1. I have sent out resumes recently but did not get an interview.
A B C D	2. I struggle with what to say when an employer asks me about something negative in my background.
A B C D	3. My resume needs work.
A B C D	4. I won't apply for a job at a business unless I know they are hiring
A B C D	5. I don't think I am very good at job interviewing.
A B C D	6. I think I have been turned down for jobs because of my age.
A B C D	7. I would hesitate to ask questions during a job interview.
A B C D	8. I would feel uncomfortable asking friends for job leads
A B C D	9. I have gone on several job interviews recently but did not get the job.
A B C D	10. I do not normally contact the people I use for recommendations before I use their name.

Scoring:

Count the total number of A's and B's. ______________
If you have one or more, complete a Job Seeking Skills Action Plan

JOB KEEPING SKILLS

Think about a job you've held. If you have not held a job, think about what you might do if you were working at a job. Answering these questions will help determine if you need information about moving up in a job, getting raises, and sticking with a job.

Answer the following questions using the key shown here:

A = Strongly Agree
B = Somewhat Agree

C = Somewhat Disagree
D = Strongly Disagree

A B C D	1. I cannot use my past employers as a reference.
A B C D	2. Asking for help on the job is a sign of being weak
A B C D	3. I think it's okay to take off time from work for personal reasons.
A B C D	4. I have been fired from a job or have quit without giving notice.
A B C D	5. I have held a couple jobs for less than three months.
A B C D	6. If my child was sick, I would not go to work.
A B C D	7. I'd rather quit a job than do something I don't think I should have to do.
A B C D	8. When someone makes me angry, I get even.
A B C D	9. I find it difficult to take criticism without feeling hurt.
A B C D	10. I seem to be late more than I am on time for things.

Scoring:

Count the total number of A's and B's. ______________
If you have one or more, complete a Job Keeping Skills Action Plan

BASIC LIFE RESOURCES

The following statements describe life situations you may be in. Answering these questions can show which, if any, services you may need to help you out during your job search or while working on a job.

Answer the following questions using the key shown here:

A = Strongly Agree
B = Somewhat Agree

C = Somewhat Disagree
D = Strongly Disagree

A B C D	1. I need help getting food for my family and me.
A B C D	2. I worry how I will get the money to survive the rest of the month.
A B C D	3. Getting from place to place can be a real problem for me.
A B C D	4. I hope I am still living in the same place in a month.
A B C D	5. I do not have reliable daycare with which I am comfortable.
A B C D	6. I do not have easy access to a telephone
A B C D	7. If I don't get a job soon, I may have to declare bankruptcy.
A B C D	8. I worry about whether I'll have the money to keep my utilities turned on.
A B C D	9. I do not own an alarm clock.
A B C D	10. I don't have the money to buy gasoline.
A B C D	11. I am delinquent on student loan payments
A B C D	12. My family and I are better off on public assistance than if I worked

Scoring:

Count the total number of A's and B's. ______________
If you have one or more, complete a Basic Life Resources Service Sheet.

LIFE AND FAMILY MANAGEMENT

Answering these self-assessment questions honestly can help you get matched to services or information that can make your life easier to manage.

Answer the following questions using the key shown here:

A = Strongly Agree
B = Somewhat Agree

C = Somewhat Disagree
D = Strongly Disagree

A B C D	1. There are many times I'd like to leave home.
A B C D	2. I wish my family didn't fight and argue so much.
A B C D	3. My friends or family tries to talk me out of getting a job or training.
A B C D	4. Caring for a family can be almost too much to bear.
A B C D	5. I am responsible for the care of an elderly relative.
A B C D	6. If my partner did not want me to work or go to school I would probably quit.
A B C D	7. I cannot count on my family to give me a ride, watch my child, or loan me money if I need it to stay in school.
A B C D	8. Managing time is not my strong point.
A B C D	9. 911 has been called to break up a family argument.
A B C D	10. I plan to stay home during my pregnancy or when my child is born

Scoring:

Count the total number of A's and B's. ______________
If you have one or more, complete a Life and Family Management Action Plan.

MY THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS

Rate the following statements based on how you feel or what you believe.

Answer the following questions using the key shown here:

A = Strongly Agree
B = Somewhat Agree

C = Somewhat Disagree
D = Strongly Disagree

A B C D	1. I don't really have any important goals I can think of.
A B C D	2. I cannot think of anything I have done that makes me feel really proud.
A B C D	3. I am not feeling too good about myself right now.
A B C D	4. I often sleep too much or too little.
A B C D	5. Things often seem so hopeless.
A B C D	6. Sometimes I feel out of touch with reality.
A B C D	7. I would like to talk to a counselor about some personal issues.
A B C D	8. I set goals but I give them up if they get too hard
A B C D	9. I frequently get excited about doing something but lose interest easily.
A B C D	10. I am having a hard time handling change in my life

Scoring:

Count the total number of A's and B's. ______________
If you have one or more, complete a My Thoughts and Feelings Action Plan.

MY BODY'S HEALTH

These 10 questions will help determine whether you might want to use our resources to assist you with a physical or health issue.

Answer the following questions using the key shown here:

A = Strongly Agree
B = Somewhat Agree

C = Somewhat Disagree
D = Strongly Disagree

A B C D	1. My health gives me a lot of problems.
A B C D	2. There are some jobs I cannot do because of my health or physical problems.
A B C D	3. I have had or need surgery soon.
A B C D	4. My children seem to be sick a lot.
A B C D	5. I have a child/family member who has a physical disability and/or illness that requires much care.
A B C D	6. My medication could affect my job performance.
A B C D	7. I will need special accommodations to do certain jobs.
A B C D	8. My doctors' appointments will hinder my school or jobs.
A B C D	9. My disability prevents me from doing things that I need to do in my job.
A B C D	10. I have had to quit a job because of a health-related problem.
A B C D	11. Future health insurance may be affected by a pre-existing condition.

Scoring:

Count the total number of A's and B's. ______________
If you have one or more, complete a My Body's Health Action Plan.

SUBSTANCE USE

This inventory is designed to help you determine whether alcohol or drug use may be a problem for you. Answer each question honestly.

Answer the following questions using the key shown here:

A = Strongly Agree
B = Somewhat Agree

C = Somewhat Disagree
D = Strongly Disagree

A B C D	1. Sometimes I'll use drugs or alcohol to alter my mood.
A B C D	2. I have thought about cutting back on drinking or getting high.
A B C D	3. There is nothing wrong with drinking or getting high by yourself.
A B C D	4. My family or friends complain about my drinking or getting high.
A B C D	5. I try to limit myself to a certain number of drinks per week.
A B C D	6. My driving record includes a conviction for DUI.
A B C D	7. I have gotten in trouble at work because of drugs or alcohol.
A B C D	8. I have awakened in the morning and could not remember what happened the night before.
A B C D	9. It's hard for me to quit drinking or getting high because most of my friends do.
A B C D	10. I've noticed that I can drink more than I used to without feeling its effects.

Scoring:

Count the total number of A's and B's. ______________
If you have one or more, complete a Substance Use Action Plan.

LEGAL ISSUES

Completing these items will identify whether you might need information or services concerning a legal issue.

Answer the following questions using the key shown here:

A = Strongly Agree
B = Somewhat Agree

C = Somewhat Disagree
D = Strongly Disagree

A B C D	1. I have been arrested or convicted of a crime other than traffic violations.
A B C D	2. I will soon go to court or sentencing.
A B C D	3. I owe back child support.
A B C D	4. I have unpaid court fines or restitution to pay.
A B C D	5. I have to do community service hours as part of a court sentence.
A B C D	6. I am going to court soon on a family matter.
A B C D	7. I am involved in civil litigation.
A B C D	8. I am driving a car without mandatory insurance and/or an expired license.
A B C D	9. I am on probation or parole.
A B C D	10. I need to find an attorney to discuss a legal matter I am concerned with.
A B C D	11. I need to get my driver's license.
A B C D	12. I would like to become a United States' Citizen.
A B C D	13. I need a copy of my social security card, birth certificate or other record and don't know how to get it.

Scoring:

Count the total number of A's and B's. ______________
If you have one or more, complete a Legal Issues Action Plan.

MY JOB INTEREST ACTION PLAN

Here are some materials and resources that are available at the center that I can use on my own:

Here are some classes I can take, workshops I can attend, and groups I can join:

I can make an appointment to talk one-on-one with a counselor on one of these topics:

MY JOB TALENTS AND ABILITIES ACTION PLAN

Here are some materials and resources that are available at the center that I can use on my own:

Here are some classes I can take, workshops I can attend, and groups I can join:

I can make an appointment to talk one-on-one with a counselor on one of these topics:

COMMUNICATIONS AND ACADEMICS ACTION PLAN

Here are some materials and resources that are available at the center that I can use on my own:

Your Time Commitment: Attending school will require many hours of your time. The majority of training requires you to be in class up to 20 hours a week. But those 20 hours are only the beginning. Before you decide whether or not you want to go to school, you may want to think about how big a time commitment you will be making.

Applying for Graduate School: Gathering information on graduate schools and programs they offer should be done as early as possible. The application should be started at least a year and a half before the expected start date. This unit will help you get organized to begin the application process.

Financing your Education: Finding a way to pay for your education can be stressful. But if you plan and learn as much as you can about your options, the process of applying for financial aid can be less confusing. The following steps can help make this process stress-free.

How will you survive?: Since schools often take several years to complete, you need to consider how you would live financially during that time. Your financial needs may help you decide whether you should go to a shorter or longer school program. Use this worksheet to decide whether you can afford to live while you are in school.

Getting Enrolled: JTPA can often provide funding for school or training but just like applying for a scholarship, there are a few steps involved. This unit will walk you through the steps to enrollment.

Choosing a College or University: Many factors influence our choice of which college or university we attend. It is important to consider these choices very carefully. There are also many books in your local library that can help you make these choices wisely. The following are basic guidelines that can help you make these decisions.

Here are some classes I can take, workshops I can attend, and groups I can join:

I can make an appointment to talk one-on-one with a counselor on one of these topics:

JOB SKILLS ACTION PLAN

Here are some materials and resources that are available at the center that I can use on my own:

Your Time Commitment: Attending training will require many hours of your time. The majority of training requires you to be in class up to 20 hours a week. But those 20 hours are only the beginning. Before you decide whether or not you want to go to school, you may want to think about how big a time commitment you will be making.

How will you survive?: Since training programs often take several months to several years to complete, you need to consider how you would live financially during that time. Your financial needs may help you decide whether you should go to a shorter or longer training program. Use this worksheet to decide whether you can afford to live while you are in training.

Choosing a Technical School: Many factors will influence your choice of schools or training. This worksheet will help you chose a school or program that is best suited to your needs.

Here are some classes I can take, workshops I can attend, and groups I can join:

I can make an appointment to talk one-on-one with a counselor on one of these topics:

JOB SEEKING FACTORS ACTION PLAN

Here are some materials and resources that are available at the center that I can use on my own:

Preparing for the Interview: Being called for an interview is a great accomplishment; your resume caught a potential employer's attention. Now it's time to prepare both mentally and physically. These are a few steps to help you get ready for what could be your first and last interview before landing a job!

Writing Your Resume: Writing a good resume is one of the first steps to getting a new job. But what are the steps for writing one? If you have never written a resume before, this is a good place to start. This unit will take you step-by-step through the process of putting together your resume.

Here are some classes I can take, workshops I can attend, and groups I can join:

I can make an appointment to talk one-on-one with a counselor on one of these topics:

JOB KEEPING SKILLS ACTION PLAN

Here are some materials and resources that are available at the center that I can use on my own:

Here are some classes I can take, workshops I can attend, and groups I can join:

I can make an appointment to talk one-on-one with a counselor on one of these topics:

BASIC LIFE RESOURCES ACTION PLAN

Here are some materials and resources that are available at the center that I can use on my own:

Getting Transportation: To get a job or get to school, you will need to consider your transportation options. You may own a car, plan to ride public transportation, walk or make other arrangements. This worksheet will help explore your options.

Child Care: Part of your decision to go to school or work may depend on finding daycare with which you are comfortable. As you explore daycare in the area, you find a variety of options. To help you determine which is the best daycare option for you, we have prepared the following worksheet. Completing it will help you make the best decision for you and your children.

Here are some classes I can take, workshops I can attend, and groups I can join:

I can make an appointment to talk one-on-one with a counselor on one of these topics:

LIFE AND FAMILY MANAGEMENT ACTION PLAN

Here are some materials and resources that are available at the center that I can use on my own:

Your Time Commitment: Accepting a job may mean reorganizing your life. It will mean making some sacrifices. If you haven't worked or haven't worked in a long time, this worksheet may give you a better idea about what adjustments will need to make to your schedule.

Here are some classes I can take, workshops I can attend, and groups I can join:

I can make an appointment to talk one-on-one with a counselor on one of these topics:

MY THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS ACTION PLAN

Here are some materials and resources that are available at the center that I can use on my own:

Setting Goals: If we can make our goals seem "real" we are more likely to reach them. These exercises will help you examine the short, mid and long-term goals you have for your life. Career, education, and personal relationship goals should become clearer to you.

Creating a Healthier You: Our mental and physical health is important for our daily survival. Therefore, we should try to keep our bodies healthy at all times. Developing our own personal wellness plan can keep us healthy . . . and out of the doctor's office.

Stress Management: Everyone at one point or another has felt stress in his or her life. Being unemployed, school deadlines, long hours of work and family situations can be great causes of stress. Unless we can manage the stress in our lives, we are setting ourselves up for serious health problems such as high blood pressure, hypertension, and greater risks for a heart attack or stroke! Try the following exercises and star reducing your stress now!

How I am Better off Working Rather Than Getting Welfare: Sometimes it seems that getting welfare payments is a better option for a family than having the head of household working. If you believe this is true, this unit will challenge that belief. You'll learn more than 200 ways that you are better off working!

Here are some classes I can take, workshops I can attend, and groups I can join:

I can make an appointment to talk one-on-one with a counselor on one of these topics:

MY BODY'S HEALTH ACTION PLAN

Here are some materials and resources that are available at the center that I can use on my own:

Here are some classes I can take, workshops I can attend, and groups I can join:

I can make an appointment to talk one-on-one with a counselor on one of these topics:

SUBSTANCE USE ACTION PLAN

Here are some materials and resources that are available at the center that I can use on my own:

Diagnosing Alcoholism and Seeking Treatment: Alcoholism is a disease that can be preventable and treatable. If you or someone you know is having a problem with alcohol, it is important to get help. The following steps will help you determine if alcohol could be impacting your life.

Here are some classes I can take, workshops I can attend, and groups I can join:

I can make an appointment to talk one-on-one with a counselor on one of these topics:

LEGAL ISSUES ACTION PLAN

Here are some materials and resources that are available at the center that I can use on my own:

Getting a Driver's License: To most people, a driver's license represents freedom. A driver is able to go wherever he or she wants, and doesn't have to rely on unpredictable public transportation. In today's world, a driver's license is essential, especially when job hunting. The following steps walk you through the process of applying for and getting your driver's license.

Becoming a United States Citizen: Naturalization is the process by which persons born in other countries become citizens of the United States. A citizen of the United States has many freedoms but have many responsibilities as well. Citizens should vote in elections, must pay their taxes, and can be asked to defend the country. This unit provides a step-by-step process for applying to become a US Citizen.

Driver's License Checkup: To get certain jobs, one has to have a clean driving record. This unit takes you through a step-by-step process to clean up your driver's record.

Here are some classes I can take, workshops I can attend, and groups I can join:

I can make an appointment to talk one-on-one with a counselor on one of these topics:

POTENTIAL PASSPORT UNITS

1. Getting Enrolled

2. Arranging Child Care

3. Arranging Transportation

4. Driver's License Checkup

5. Career Exploration

6. Upgrading Academic Skills

7. Completing the History Section of the GED

8. Completing the Social Studies Section of the GED

9. Completing the Science Section of the GED

10. Completing the Language Section of the GED

11. Completing the Math Section of the GED

12. Preparing For, Taking, and Passing the GED examination

13. Learning About Job Interviews

14. Using Successful Job Search Techniques

15. Developing Your Resume

16. Retaining Your Job

Additionally, vocational curriculum could easily be broken down into various units that could be added to the passport system.

MY SUCCESS GOALS
(Write a Goal in Each Box)


WEEK:___
WEEK:___
WEEK:___
WEEK:___
WEEK:___
WEEK:___
WEEK:___
WEEK:___
WEEK:___
WEEK:___

YOUR TIME COMMITMENT

Attending training will require many hours of your time. The majority of our training requires you to be in class 20 hours per week. Those 20 hours are only the beginning. You will need to get ready for school. You may have to get children ready for their day, and get yourself to and from the training site. You may also have to do homework. Before you decide to join job training, you may want to think about how big a time commitment you will be making. To help you picture what you are getting yourself into, please complete the following worksheet.

Date Completed
___________	1.	Attached are two schedule sheets. First fill one out so that it shows what your typical day is like now. Fill in when you sleep, clean, eat, watch TV, run errands, get out of bed, go to bed, socialize, prepare meals, etc.
___________	2.	Using the second schedule sheet, fill out a schedule which shows what your life would be like if you were in training. Use the following instructions:
		Assume training begins at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 4:00 p.m.
	_______	A) Working backwards from 8:00 a.m., log the total time it will take you to drive or take a bus to the training. If you do not know, use � hour.
	_______	B) Working backwards from item A, log the total time it will take you to drive or transport your children to daycare. (You should now see what time you need to leave the house each morning.)
	_______	C) Still working backwards fill in the schedule with the time it will take you to get dressed, get your children dressed, pack a lunch, pack your children's lunch. (Your schedule should now show what time you'll need to wake up.)
	_______	D) Assuming you need to sleep between 6.5-8.5 hours each night, use the log to calculate what time you'll need to go to bed.
	_______	E) Starting with 4:00 p.m., log the amount of time it will take you to get home. If you don't know, use � hour. If you have children, include travel time to and from daycare.
	_______	F) Log the time it will take you to prepare dinner, eat, and clean up.
	_______	G) Log an hour of homework and/or studies.
	_______	H) Log the average amount of time you'll need to help your children with their schoolwork, bathe the children, and prepare them for bed.
	_______	I) Log the time you need to shop, run errands, clean, do laundry, and other chores.
	_______	J) Log time you need for leisure activities such as watching TV, reading, calling friends, exercising, etc.
	_______	K) Log any additional responsibilities you have that will require time.
	_______	L) If you need to work a part-time job, log the hours you'll have available to work.

3. Compare your current schedule to your "in-training" schedule. What are some of the trade-offs and sacrifices you'll have to make to do well in training?

4. After reviewing your schedule, do you have any concerns about being able to manage everything that will need to be done?

YES ______ NO ______

5. How long do you believe you would be able to maintain this schedule without paid?

____________ days or ____________ months or ____________ years

SAMPLE 24-HOUR DAY TRAINING SCHEDULE

SAMPLE SCHEDULE	5:30 a.m. 5:45 a.m.	11:30 a.m. 11:45 a.m. TRAINING	6:00 p.m. 6:15 p.m. coffee
12 midnight *Sleep* 12:15 a.m.	6:00 a.m. *get up* 6:15 a.m. *get kids up*	12 noon 12:15 p.m. TRAINING	6:30 p.m. *clean up kitchen* 6:45 p.m.
12:30 a.m. 12:45 a.m.	6:30 a.m. shower 6:45 a.m. *dress*	12:30 p.m. 12:45 p.m. TRAINING	7:00 p.m. *help kids with* 7:15 p.m. *homework*
1:00 a.m. 1:15 a.m.	7:00 a.m. *pack lunches* 7:15 a.m. *eat*	1:00 p.m. 1:15 p.m. TRAINING	7:30 p.m. 7:45 P.m.
1:30 a.m. 1:45 a.m.	7:30 a.m. drive to training 7:45 a.m.	1:30 p.m. 1:45 p.m. TRAINING	8:00 p.m. *give kids bath* 8:15 p.m.
2:00 a.m. 2:15 a.m.	8:00 a.m. TRAINING 8:15 a.m.	2:00 p.m. 2:15 p.m. TRAINING	8:30 p.m. *do my* 8:45 p.m. *homework*
2:30 a.m. 2:45 a.m.	8:30 a.m. 8:45 a.m. TRAINING	3:00 p.m. 3:15 p.m. TRAINING	9:00 p.m. 9:15 p.m.
3:00 a.m. 3:15 a.m.	9:00 a.m. 9:15 a.m. TRAINING	3:30 p.m. 3:45 p.m. TRAINING	9:30 p.m. *relax with* 9:45 p.m. *boyfriend/TV*
3:30 a.m. 3:45 a.m.	9:30 a.m. 9:15 a.m. TRAINING	4:00 p.m. leave training 4:15 p.m. drive home	10:00 p.m. *get ready* 10:15 p.m. *for bed*
4:00 a.m. 4:15 a.m.	10:00 a.m. 10:15 a.m TRAINING	4:30 p.m. *talk to kids* 4:45 p.m. *unwind*	10:30 p.m. *sleep* 10:45 p.m.
4:30 a.m. 4:45 a.m.	10:30 a.m. 10:45 a.m. TRAINING	5:00 p.m. *prepare food* 5:15 p.m.	11:00 p.m. 11:15 p.m.
5:00 a.m. 5:15 a.m.	11:00 a.m. 11:15 a.m. TRAINING	5:30 p.m. *eat* 5:45 p.m.	11:30 p.m. 11:45 p.m.

YOUR CURRENT 24-HOUR DAY SCHEDULE

SCHEDULE	5:30 a.m. 5:45 a.m.	11:30 a.m. 11:45 a.m.	6:00 p.m. 6:15 p.m.
12 midnight 12:15 a.m.	6:00 a.m. 6:15 a.m.	12 noon 12:15 p.m.	6:30 p.m. 6:45 p.m.
12:30 a.m. 12:45 a.m.	6:30 a.m. 6:45 a.m.	12:30 p.m. 12:45 p.m.	7:00 p.m. 7:15 p.m.
1:00 a.m. 1:15 a.m.	7:00 a.m. 7:15 a.m.	1:00 p.m. 1:15 p.m.	7:30 p.m. 7:45 P.m.
1:30 a.m. 1:45 a.m.	7:30 a.m. 7:45 a.m.	1:30 p.m. 1:45 p.m.	8:00 p.m. 8:15 p.m.
2:00 a.m. 2:15 a.m.	8:00 a.m. 8:15 a.m.	2:00 p.m. 2:15 p.m.	8:30 p.m. 8:45 p.m.
2:30 a.m. 2:45 a.m.	8:30 a.m. 8:45 a.m.	3:00 p.m. 3:15 p.m.	9:00 p.m. 9:15 p.m.
3:00 a.m. 3:15 a.m.	9:00 a.m. 9:15 a.m.	3:30 p.m. 3:45 p.m.	9:30 p.m. 9:45 p.m.
3:30 a.m. 3:45 a.m.	9:30 a.m. 9:15 a.m.	4:00 p.m. 4:15 p.m.	10:00 p.m. 10:15 p.m.
4:00 a.m. 4:15 a.m.	10:00 a.m. 10:15 a.m.	4:30 p.m. 4:45 p.m.	10:30 p.m. 10:45 p.m.
4:30 a.m. 4:45 a.m.	10:30 a.m. 10:45 a.m.	5:00 p.m. 5:15 p.m.	11:00 p.m. 11:15 p.m.
5:00 a.m. 5:15 a.m.	11:00 a.m. 11:15 a.m.	5:30 p.m. 5:45 p.m.	11:30 p.m. 11:45 p.m.

24-HOUR DAY TRAINING SCHEDULE

SCHEDULE	5:30 a.m. 5:45 a.m.	11:30 a.m. 11:45 a.m.	6:00 p.m. 6:15 p.m.
12 midnight 12:15 a.m.	6:00 a.m. 6:15 a.m.	12 noon 12:15 p.m. TRAINING	6:30 p.m. 6:45 p.m.
12:30 a.m. 12:45 a.m.	6:30 a.m. 6:45 a.m.	12:30 p.m. 12:45 p.m. TRAINING	7:00 p.m. 7:15 p.m.
1:00 a.m. 1:15 a.m.	7:00 a.m. 7:15 a.m.	1:00 p.m. 1:15 p.m. TRAINING	7:30 p.m. 7:45 P.m.
1:30 a.m. 1:45 a.m.	7:30 a.m. 7:45 a.m.	1:30 p.m. 1:45 p.m. TRAINING	8:00 p.m. 8:15 p.m.
2:00 a.m. 2:15 a.m.	8:00 a.m. 8:15 a.m. TRAINING	2:00 p.m. 2:15 p.m. TRAINING	8:30 p.m. 8:45 p.m.
2:30 a.m. 2:45 a.m.	8:30 a.m. 8:45 a.m. TRAINING	3:00 p.m. 3:15 p.m. TRAINING	9:00 p.m. 9:15 p.m.
3:00 a.m. 3:15 a.m.	9:00 a.m. 9:15 a.m. TRAINING	3:30 p.m. 3:45 p.m. TRAINING	9:30 p.m. 9:45 p.m.
3:30 a.m. 3:45 a.m.	9:30 a.m. 9:15 a.m. TRAINING	4:00 p.m. 4:15 p.m.	10:00 p.m. 10:15 p.m.
4:00 a.m. 4:15 a.m.	10:00 a.m. 10:15 a.m. TRAINING	4:30 p.m. 4:45 p.m.	10:30 p.m. 10:45 p.m.
4:30 a.m. 4:45 a.m.	10:30 a.m. 10:45 a.m. TRAINING	5:00 p.m. 5:15 p.m.	11:00 p.m. 11:15 p.m.
5:00 a.m. 5:15 a.m.	11:00 a.m. 11:15 a.m. TRAINING	5:30 p.m. 5:45 p.m.	11:30 p.m. 11:45 p.m.

CHILD CARE FACILITY INFORMATION SHEET
(put two of these in packet)

NOTE: Do not use for family member or friend. Use for daycare facility. Must be completed whether or not you intend to use this facility.

Name:

Address:

Phone:

Hours of operation:

Age range of children accepted?

Does provider allow for overtime hours?

How much advance notice does the provider need for overtime hours?

Can the facility accept ill children?

Which meals are provided?

Are there educational activities that the children can do?

How many other children are at this facility?

What is the availability of slots?

Does this facility offer occasional drop-in services? If so, at what cost?

What is the regular hourly, daily, or weekly costs?

What is the payment schedule (daily, prepaid, weekly, monthly)?

What are the overtime rates?

Is there a special rate for infants? If so, how much?

Is there a discount for a second or third child?

Other comments:
-

CHILD CARE

Part of your decision to join our job training program may depend on finding daycare with which you are comfortable. As you explore the daycare in the area, you may find a variety of options. To help you determine which is the best daycare option for you, we have prepared the following worksheet. Completing it will help you decide whether or not you are ready for job training.

Date Completed		Decision Item
______________	1.	Ask relatives and friends whether they would be willing to watch your child(ren) while you are at school or work. Let them know that you may be at school up to eight hours a day. Name two people you asked: __________________ and __________________. [NOTE: Even if a family member or friend agrees to watch your child, you must complete all remaining items.]
______________	2.	If a friend or relative agrees to watch your child(ren), then get a written statement from them saying that he or she agrees to watch the child(ren) during school or work hours. The reason for getting a written commitment is so that you can tell whether the person is serious about helping you. If he or she won't sign a paper, you may want to rethink relying on this person. You must bring in this written statement.
______________	3.	Contact Headstart to get information. Get on their waiting list if possible. Name of person you spoke with: ____________________ Phone # _______________. [If your child is 5 years or older, write N/A next to item 3.]
______________	4.	Call Child Care Resource and Referral at xxx-xxxx. Name of person you spoke with: ________________________________.
______________	5.	Gather information on two daycare facilities in the area, other than family friends. Complete the attached Child Care Facility Information Sheet on each facility. Call only licensed daycare facilities.
______________	6.	Estimate the weekly cost of meeting your child care needs. The child care provider must be at least 18 years old and not your parents to be considered for payment. Estimated cost: _______________.
______________	7.	Based on the information you have obtained, determine which type of child care you desire: ____Friend/relative/unlicensed daycare ____Licensed daycare facility ____Headstart ____Pre-school ____Latchkey ____Other _____________________________________________
______________	8.	If enrolled, who would you choose as your primary child care provider? _______________________________________________________
______________	9.	What is your alternate plan in case the primary plan does not work out? _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________
______________	10.	What is your emergency plan for when the child(ren) is ill and cannot go to daycare? _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________
______________	11.	What is your plan for getting your child(ren) to the daycare facility? _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________
_____________	12.	Are you ready and willing to leave your child(ren) with your primary provider? ____Yes ____No ____Not sure
_____________	13.	Are you ready and willing to leave your child(ren) with your alternate or emergency provider? ____Yes ____No ____Not sure

TRANSPORTATION

You will need to think about how you will get to your training site each and every day. You may own a car, plan to ride public transportation, walk or make other arrangements. You will want to consider time, distance, and costs.

Date Completed		Decision Item
______________	1.	What type of transportation will you primarily use to get you to training? ____ Own car or motorcycle ____ Public transportation (bus) ____ Hitchhike ____ Friends/Parents will drive ____ Bicycle/Walk ____ Car pool ____ Other ________________________________________________
	2.	If you went to training, you would have to use this transportation 3 to 5 days per week, twice per day.
		If you plan to use your own car:
		a. On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being "very reliable," how reliable is your car? __________ What is the make/year of your car? _______________ How many miles are on your car? __________
		b. What repairs would it need to be "very reliable?" ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________
		c. If you had to be in training for 6 months to 2 years, what additional repairs do you think your car would need? ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________
		d. Do you have a current and valid driver's license? ____________
		e. Do you have violations or unpaid traffic tickets on your record? __________ How much do you owe? __________ What type of violations: ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________
		f. Do you have insurance? ____________
______________	3.	If you plan to use public transportation:
		a. Pick up bus schedules for your transportation needs from home to your child care facility and to the training campus or work site. Bring a schedule in.
		b. Figure out how many transfers you would have to make. __________ Also, how close does the bus go to your intended destination? __________
		c. How much will the bus cost per day? __________
		d. How much time will riding the bus take? __________
		e. Complete this statement: The bus stops __________ block(s) from my child's daycare facility. It will take me __________ minutes to walk from the bus stop to the daycare center. It will take me __________ minutes to get my child(ren) settled down at the daycare center. It will take me __________ minutes to walk back to the bus stop. I have exactly __________ minutes to accomplish this between buses.
		f. Do you regularly ride public transportation? Yes ________ No ________
______________	4.	If you are planning to rely on family or friends:
		a. Get a written statement of commitment from the family member or friend. The reason for getting the written statement is so that you can tell whether or not the person is serious about driving you. If he/she won't sign a paper, you may want to rethink relying on this person. You must bring in the written statement.
		b. On a scale of 1-10, with 10 very "very reliable," how reliable is the person you will be riding with? __________
		c. Using the same scale, how reliable is his/her transportation? __________ What make/year is the car? ___________________ How many miles is on the car? ____________
		d. What is your relationship with this person? ____________________
		e. Will this person be making a special trip just to take you? ________ Is this person willing to pick you up as early as 8:00 a.m.? Yes ________ No ________
		f. Will you have to pay this person to give you a ride? Yes ________ No ________
	5.	Since often the primary transportation plan does not work out, what would be a good back-up plan for you? ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________
_____________	6.	Often, training is not provided in the local community; therefore you will need to decide how many minutes you are willing to travel for training or to go to work. Which towns/areas would you be willing and able to commute to? ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________
_____________	7.	If you have determined that you have transportation problems, what would need to be done to solve these problems? ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________

HOW WILL YOU SURVIVE?

Since the training we offer may last several months to several years, you need to consider how you would live financially during that time. Your financial needs may help you decide whether you should go to a shorter or longer training program. Use this worksheet to decide whether you can afford to be in training.

Date Completed		Decision Item
____________	1.	Add together your sources of income.

PRESENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE	CURRENT PER MONTH
1. Income from present job
2. Income from odd jobs
3. Gifts/loans from others
4. Welfare assistance
5. Food stamps
6. Other

NO COST SERVICES	$ PER MONTH
1. Medical assistance
2. Child care
3. Housing assistance
4. Free lunch program

TOTAL INCOME: ____________

Date Completed		Decision Item
____________	2.	Make a list of your expenses.

COST OF LIVING	CURRENT $ PER MONTH
RENT
ELECTRIC
GAS
WATER
SEWAGE/GARBAGE
TELEPHONE
FOOD
CLOTHING
TRANSPORTATION (BUS)
LAUNDRY
MEDICAL/DENTAL
CABLE TV
NEWSPAPER
CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS
AUTO INSURANCE
OTHER INSURANCE
CHILD CARE/CHILD SUPPORT
GASOLINE
MISCELLANEOUS

TOTAL EXPENSES: ____________

Date Completed		Decision Item
______________	3.	Do you have other financial resources (a working spouse, parental assistance, a savings account, a friend)? Yes ________ No ________
______________	4.	Are your bills more than your income? Yes ________ No ________
______________	5.	If your bills are more than your income, how will you make ends meet while in training? ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________
______________	6.	How much money are you short per month, if any? _______________
______________	7.	Based on your calculations, would you need to work part time while in school? Yes ________ No ________ How many hours a week would you need to work? ________
______________	8.	Will your income remain the same during the entire time you are in the program? For example, will your unemployment be exhausted? Yes ________ No ________ Explain:____________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________
______________	9.	If any person will be supporting you while you are in training, bring in a written statement from that person saying they will support you. The statement needs to include: 1) nature and length of relationship; 2) what the person is willing to contribute (money, room, board, rides, etc.); 3) how long they are willing to provide the support.
______________	10.	Based on all these calculations, are you financially able to survive until you complete training? Yes ________ No ________

GETTING A DRIVER'S LICENSE

To most people, a driver's license represents freedom. A driver is able to go wherever he or she wants, and doesn't have to rely on unpredictable public transportation. In today's world, a driver's license is essential, especially when job-hunting. The following exercises will help you obtain the freedom and privileges that a driver's license gives.

Date Completed		Decision Item
_____________	1.	Visit the local Department of Public Safety (DPS) or licensing center for testing information booklets. Since you can't drive, plan how you will get there. ___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________
_____________	2.	When you go to pick up information, write down the center's operating hours and test times. Hours:______________ Testing Hours:_________________________________
_____________	3.	Study the driving manual and proper driving procedures. Choose two dates to take your permit test at DPS or licensing center.
_____________	4.	Call center about permit fee. How much money will it cost to apply for a permit? $___________.
_____________	5.	If applicable, schedule an appointment with a doctor for a physical exam. (A physical is often required before taking the permit test).
_____________	6.	Ask a friend or relative to quiz you on information you've studied in the manual.
_____________	7.	Go take the test to get a driving permit.
_____________	8.	Once you have passed your permit test, ask a friend or relative to help you practice driving. Name two people you asked. ________________ and ________________
_____________	9.	Make up a schedule for practice driving times with your friend or relative.
_____________	10.	Practice driving until you feel comfortable enough to take your test.
_____________	11.	Ask your friend or relative to evaluate your driving and help you in areas you are weak.
_____________	12.	You will need to use a car for your driving test. Ask your friend or relative if you could use his/her car.
_____________	13.	Choose a date to take your driving test. _______________
_____________	14.	Before your driving test, gather together all the information you will need to take with you to the center.
_____________	15.	Arrive at the center prior to your test to fill out necessary paperwork.
_____________	16.	Take driver's test. If you pass, when will you receive your official license? __________ If you fail, ask someone at the center when you may be able to take the test again.

CHOOSING A TECHNICAL SCHOOL

There are many factors that will influence your choice of schools or training programs. Please choose the best school/program you feel best suits your needs.

Date Completed

Decision Item

_____________

Make a written list of jobs careers that interest you.

_____________

Which jobs/careers are you interested in enough to explore?
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________

_____________

What do these jobs/careers require in terms of education, experience, and skills?

	Job 1	Job 2	Job 3
Education
Experience
Skills Needed

_____________

Ask friends or family members who have these jobs about schools/training programs available.

_____________

Ask one friend or family member in each field about their job.
What do they do?
What skills do you need?
Is on the job training available?
How much education is needed?
What type of education is needed?

_____________

Contact a guidance or career counselor for more job/school/training programs information.

_____________

Select 3-5 schools or training programs you are interested in attending.

_____________

Send a postcard or call each school/training program to request information about your area of interest.

_____________

Make an appointment with the school/training program to schedule a visit.

_____________

10.

Make arrangements to meet with teachers, students, and the person who reviews applications, also visit the financial aid office.

_____________

11.

Prepare a list of questions to ask about the school/training program before you visit.

_____________

12.

If you cannot visit, call and ask for this information:
Catalog/course requirements
Pamphlets
Brochures
Financial aid
Admissions requirements

_____________

13.

Review all of the information you have. Evaluate each school/training program:
Faculty
Course related to your interest
Overall costs
Location
On the job training or experienced based
Employment opportunities

_____________

14.

If needed, go to the local library or employment agency to find more information about these schools/training programs.

_____________

15.

Contact selected school/training programs for application materials.

CHOOSING A COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY

Many factors influence our choice of which college or university we attend. It is important to consider these choices very carefully. There are also many books in you local that can help you make these choices wisely. The following are basic guidelines that can help you make these decisions.

Date Completed

Decision Item

_____________

Complete Factor Survey (Exercise #1). What were your results?
A. Type: _______
B. Size: ________
C. Setting: _______
D. Location: _______

_____________

Compile a list of schools that interest you. Go to your local or school library to research schools that interest you. Books to use:
A. Baron's profiles of American Colleges
B. Peterson's Guide to Four Year Colleges
C. Consult card catalog or reference section for more.

_____________

Set aside a desk drawer, a corner, file folders or a box that can be used as a collection space for your information.

_____________

Contact a guidance counselor or career counselor to ask about upcoming college fairs.

Date:	_____________	______________
Time:	_____________	______________
Location:	_____________	______________

_____________

Begin to identify colleges that interest you, based upon the characteristics most important to you. Choose no less than three and no more than 20.

_____________

Break this list down to eight schools you wish to apply to.

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With this list, place schools into one of three categories:

Reach Schools: These are "dream schools," based upon academic record, test scores, and other application materials; you and your counselor feel there may be a remote chance of getting into.
Probables: Reasonable and realistic choices; better than average chance.
Safeties: Safe bets; typically though, not your first choice. These schools can be relied on if others fall through.

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Contact each school for information and application materials. Ask for view books, catalogs, brochures, extracurricular activities list, and financial aid information.

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Narrow this list. Choose schools you would like to visit. Call the admissions office to schedule tour dates and times.

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10.

Gather list of questions to ask of those you may meet on your tour. Plan to meet with professors, students and financial aid office.

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11.

Evaluate each school based upon all the information you've gathered. Choose schools you will apply to.

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12.

Consult library or guidance counselor for application advice.

FACTOR SURVEY
(Exercise #1)
Mark all that apply

A.	Type:
	_____ community	_____ one-race
	_____ liberal arts	_____ one-sex
	_____ state	_____ religious affiliation
	_____ university	_____ ivy league
	_____ private	_____ technical
B.	Size:
	_____ small (500-1500)
	_____ medium (2000-5000)
	_____ large (5000 +)
C.	Setting:
	_____ rural	_____ small town
	_____ urban	_____ large city
	_____ suburbs	_____ medium
D.	Location
	_____ northeast	_____ southwest
	_____ southeast	_____ north-central
	_____ mid-central	_____ south central
	_____ northwest	_____ out of U.S. mainland states

SETTING GOALS

If we can make our goals seem "real," we are more likely to accomplish them. These exercises will help you examine the short, mid and long-term goals you have for your life. Career, education, and personal relationship goals should become clearer to you.
Date Completed		Decision Item
_____________	1.	Make a written list of everything you want to do or accomplish in your life. These are your long-term goals. Long-term goals: major targets in your life. Career? Education? Travel? Personal Relationships?
_____________	2.	Review your list. Select three goals that are most important to you. Goal #1_____________________ Goal #2____________________ Goal #3_____________________