top of page

Future Focus:
Navigating College, Careers, & Life
10th - 12th grade

In this dynamic, hands-on workshop-style course, students receive expert guidance to explore their skills and interests while preparing for life after high school. Whether planning for college, career training, or entering the workforce, students gain valuable insights to set and achieve meaningful goals.

This A-G approved course also equips students with essential job readiness skills, including resume writing, interview techniques, job searches, and the soft skills employers seek. Additionally, students learn how to cultivate positive relationships, adapt to life changes, manage finances, and make informed, healthy choices—empowering them to become confident, productive members of their communities.

Class Time

Thursdays - 2:45 - 4:15

Instructors

Dr. Bridget Gergens

Tuition

2025 - 2026 Two semester course

$385 per semester

PCLC Student Fee

There is an annual student fee for all students taking classes at Pacific Coast Learning Center. Some charter schools allow for this fee to be added to the cost of classes rather than being paid out-of-pocket by parents. If your charter agrees, you may add the cost of the student fee to your first PO.

Future Focus: Navigating College, Careers & Life

This A-G approved course empowers students with the tools and strategies needed to transition into adulthood with confidence. By the end, students will have a detailed plan for their future, along with the life skills, financial literacy, and career readiness necessary to achieve success in any path they choose.
Unit 1: Winning Habits

Developing positive habits for success
Overcoming procrastination and building self-discipline
Understanding the psychology of habit formation
Creating daily routines that promote productivity
Learning how to track progress and stay motivated

Unit 2: Smart Goals

Defining and setting SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound)
Short-term vs. long-term goal setting
Backwards mapping to achieve career and life aspirations
Aligning goals with personal interests and skills
Tracking progress and adjusting goals as needed

Unit 3: Time Management

Effective time management strategies
Creating to-do lists and prioritizing tasks
Managing school, work, and personal responsibilities
Avoiding distractions and maximizing productivity
Overcoming decision fatigue and procrastination

Unit 4: Building Skills and Talents

Identifying personal strengths and areas for growth
Exploring learning styles and personal development strategies
How to turn hobbies and interests into career opportunities
The importance of continuous learning and skill-building
Developing a mindset for lifelong growth and adaptability

Unit 5: Finding Your Purpose

Exploring personal values, passions, and career interests
The connection between purpose and fulfillment in life
Researching career options that align with strengths and passions
Understanding job vs. career and pathways to success
Creating a vision for the future and mapping out next steps

Unit 6: Focused Communication and Memory

Strengthening verbal and written communication skills
Active listening and reading people in professional settings
Improving memory and retention techniques for learning
Professional etiquette: emails, letters, and workplace communication
Developing confidence in networking and public speaking

Unit 7: Budgeting 101

Understanding financial literacy and money management
Creating personal budgets based on real-world expenses
Exploring the true cost of college, trade school, and independent living
Budgeting research project and financial decision-making
Presenting a budgeting lifestyle plan aligned with future goals

Unit 8: Life Skills

Decision-making and problem-solving for real-life situations
Building healthy relationships and networking skills
Managing life transitions and adapting to change
Leadership and teamwork in school, work, and community settings
Becoming a productive and responsible member of society

Unit 9: Career Readiness

Resume writing and crafting a strong personal brand
Preparing for job interviews and mastering interview techniques
Professional networking and building industry connections
Exploring trade schools, college pathways, and vocational training
Researching job markets and employment trends

Unit 10: The 10-Year Plan

Creating a personalized roadmap for the next decade
Setting milestones for education, career, and financial goals
Identifying mentors, advisors, and support networks
Updating resumes, requesting letters of recommendation, and securing opportunities
Final presentation: The 10-Year Plan showcase

bottom of page