Fall
This is peak application season. The timeline is tight, so staying organized is key.

College Bound

• Track all deadlines. Use a spreadsheet to stay on top of what you need and when.
• Write and polish essays. Have an English teacher or reliable friend read them aloud.
• Submit applications for Early Action or Early Decision (typically Nov. 1 or 15).
• Submit Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA). Application season starts Oct. 1, so file these early to maximize financial aid opportunities.
• Order official transcripts. Your high school admissions office handles this.

Workforce Training and Trades

• Apply to trade/tech schools (mid-Nov.). Even if a school has rolling admissions, popular programs fill up early.
• Apply for union apprenticeships. Their application windows can be brief and highly specific. Don’t wait!

Straight to the Job Market

• Identify target employers. Find local organizations who hire high school graduates and offer opportunities for training and advancement.
• Gather professional references (2-3 teachers, supervisors or coaches).

Winter
The waiting game begins for college applicants, while workforce and job-bound students focus on networking and finishing strong.

College Bound

• Submit Regular Decision apps (Jan. 1 – Feb. 15).
• Apply for scholarships (check community foundations, civic groups and Fastweb).

Workforce Training and Trades

• Prepare for trade entrance exams.
• Seek trade scholarships (check the mikeroweWORKS Foundation and local union-backed awards).

Straight to the Job Market

• Begin intensive job search (check Indeed, ZipRecruiter, LinkedIn and local companies’ websites).
• Prepare portfolio for creative, IT or craft fields.

Spring
Decision time! This is where you finalize your post-grad plans and celebrate your hard work.

College Bound

• Review financial aid award letters.
• Make final decision (by May 1).
• Politely decline other offers. This allows schools to plan ahead and offer admission to students on the waitlist.

Workforce Training and Trades

• Confirm enrollment or placement.
• Purchase required gear (check Facebook Marketplace and Craig’s List).

Straight to the Job Market

• Actively interview. This is a great Spring Break activity.
• Secure job offer. Review hours, wages and benefits before signing.

Summer
The transition phase. Wrap up high school loose ends and get ready for the next chapter.

For All Paths

• Send final transcript to schools or employers.
• Send thank-you notes (teachers, counselors and mentors).
• Rest and celebrate. You’ve earned it! Take some time to relax before your next chapter kicks off.