ShareThisHi, Jewel,I got accepted to the college program I wanted for this fall, but now I'm having second thoughts. I'm thinking I would like to work for a year.I'm not sure if the program I picked is right for me, and taking a year to do something else and think about it makes sense to me.My parents say if I don't go to college now I may never go. I think I will. What should I do?-- COLLEGE OR WORK?Dear C.O.W.,Getting into a college program is no easy feat. You should be proud of your hard work and dedication.Second thoughts are not a new phenomenon. People from all walks of life are bitten by them at one point or another. However, you can fight them with a plan.Begin by listing the pros and cons of postponing school. Record what you hope to achieve. Meet with a college academic counselor to learn of future admission options. Undertake career aptitude tests. Look up internship and work-placement opportunities.Once you've gathered this info, take some time to reflect upon it. Take note of how these findings make you feel. If you still desire a break from academics, prepare a formal proposal for your folks.I know your parents are fearful you'll give up on school altogether. You can demonstrate your desire to further your education by committing to save a certain percentage of your earnings for tuition. You can also showcase a responsible attitude by offering to help with bills in your household.Answer their questions openly and candidly. Stick to your promises. Negotiate with the aid of a calm mind.Best of luck.-- Love, JewelHi, Dave,I'm in Grade 8 and I am really nervous about starting high school in the fall.My older sister told me guys have it rougher than girls, because they really get picked on the first year.She says she's seen lots of bullying. I'm small for my age, so that will make me a good target. I don't think fighting back is an option for me. Do you have any suggestions?-- SCAREDDear SCARED,Two problems: First, you are over-thinking about how aggressive bullying is in high school. Your anxiety levels are shooting through the roof and you haven't even started high school yet.Don't you see what's wrong with this picture? If you're expecting a tough time next year, you could be setting yourself up for disaster, because you may make mountains out of molehills and read into people's statements too closely. I suggest you enter high school with a relaxed confidence that you can make friends with no problem.Second problem? You are already talking "fighting back." It's premature to consider how you'll retaliate against problems that haven't afflicted you yet, especially when your language suggests physical violence is a big concern.Don't always believe what other people tell you -- high school may be tough, but it's not a Royal Rumble main event. Steer clear of the rough crowd and you'll do fine in high school.Good luck!(Got a hot question for our cool columnists? E-mail Jewel or Dave at writeus(at)ypp.net or check them out on-line at http://www.ypp.net.)(Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, http://www.scrippsnews.com)
Wants to put off college ... Freaked out about high school
Submitted by SHNS on Wed, 03/26/2008 - 15:10
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Who's got your number?
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