Future Focused

Welcome to the 2025-26 Future Focused Newsletter. This is your go-to space for college readiness, career insights, and valuable resources to help you succeed. Whether you're seeking guidance, learning new skills, or questioning what you want to do after high school, this newsletter is designed to foster a sense of confident decision making and growth. Stay tuned for exciting updates, tips, and college/career readiness opportunities as we work together toward a bright future!

Chris Browning of Popcorn Finance fame didn’t intend to go into a career in finance. In fact, he started out as an art major who thought taking a finance class would be helpful. Not only was it helpful, but it shifted his career trajectory and he ended up majoring in finance and working in accounting and financial analyst. His journey led him to launch the "Popcorn Finance" podcast in 2017, where he distills bite-sized pieces of financial wisdom in the time it takes to make a bag of popcorn. Chris's down-to-earth approach and personal anecdotes make personal finance relatable and accessible.

April 1 * Paraprofessional Appreciation Day

April 5 * Geologist Day

April 16 * National Librarian Day

April 18 * Lineman Appreciation Day/National Newspaper Columnist Day

April 19-25 * National Library Week

April 20-24 * National Public School Volunteer Week

April 22 * Administrative Professionals Day

April 25 * World Veterinary Day

April 26-May 2 * National Apprenticeship Week

Ready to kickstart your college journey? Click here for an updated list of scholarships, in order, by deadline. Don’t wait: start applying today and get one step closer to your dream school!

Brainstorm Before Researching Scholarships

• Create a comprehensive list of your accomplishments.

• Sports, clubs, babysitting, church, leadership, work experience, family care, etc.

Answer the following common scholarship questions:

• Tell us about yourself.

• Describe a time you overcame adversity.

• What do you plan to study in college? Why?

• What makes you unique?

• Describe how you have demonstrated leadership ability in your community.

Be Thorough During The Search

• Find free scholarship search services.

• Seek out community resources, including community foundations, community groups, cultural organizations, employers, places of worship, and high school counselors.

• Pay attention to qualifications and requirements (every scholarship is different).

• Make a list of scholarships you will apply for.

• Prioritize your list by deadline.

• Add details of all materials required for submission.

Complete Your Applications

• Work on one scholarship at a time.

• Reread specifications of the essay.

• Create an outline using your brainstorm topics.

• Show the reader; don’t just tell them

• Use specific examples.

• Write multiple drafts. Never submit a first draft essay.

• Proofread! Proofread! Proofread! Have a trusted adult or a peer read over your final draft prior to submission.

Time To Submit!

• Make sure your application has all required documents.

• Double check that your essay answered all prompts given.

• Make a copy! Always keep a record of your submissions.

• File your FAFSA at studentaid.gov
• Click here for step-by-step instructions for families!
• Register for a virtual presentation to learn more about financial aid basics.
• Keep knocking out scholarships – local, regional, and national!
• Don’t leave free money on the table: Click to learn how the Michigan Achievement Scholarship and Tuition Incentive Program (TIP) can help pay for college.
• Stay organized
• Create an email just for college and career information. Keep it professional!
• Seek support when needed and breathe! We're here to guide you through! 🙂

uAspire hosts free virtual events to walk students and families through the financial aid process, provide resources and guidance, and answer questions. Topics include:

• Financial Aid Offer Review: Tue, Apr 14, 5:00-6:00 PM
• Affording College 101: Wed, May 13, 6:00-7:00 PM
• Summer Steps for Financial Aid: Thu, Jun 4, 5:00-6:00 PM

Click here to register.

• Don’t forget, 20 hours of community service are required for graduation. If you still need hours, now’s the perfect time to get involved! Many local organizations are ready to welcome student volunteers, including:

  • Angels' Place

  • Arts & Scraps

  • Corewell Health

  • Friendship Circle

  • Gleaners

  • Habitat for Humanity

  • Michigan Humane Society

  • Oakland County Foster Closet: Contact Ms. Michele at (248) 419-4487

  • Southfield Parks & Recreation

  Be sure to log your hours. Let’s finish strong, Class of 2026!

Planning your summer and not sure what actually helps with college admissions? This helpful guide from College Wise breaks through the noise and offers thoughtful advice on how to spend your summer in a way that reflects your interests, curiosity, and goals. Instead of following the crowd, learn how to choose experiences that genuinely matter to you.

Saturday Campus Tours at Eastern Michigan University are a great option for students and families who need a weekend visit. Each tour includes a welcome meeting with an EMU Admissions Advisor followed by a 75–90 minute walking tour of campus, giving you the chance to explore campus and learn more about the EMU experience. View upcoming Saturday Tour dates here and plan your visit today!

Thinking about becoming a Golden Grizzly? High school students can now explore Oakland University’s upcoming Undergraduate Admissions events. Visit the Undergraduate Admissions homepage to view information sessions, campus tours, special visit days, and other opportunities designed to help you learn more about OU and take your next steps toward enrollment. Check out the full list of events and plan your visit today!

• 4/08/26 - Pre-Med Night
• 8/07/26 - Get Ready for College

Join Preview Day and get a true feel for Spring Arbor University on April 12. Enjoy a meal in the Dining Commons, attend Chapel, and connect with students, faculty, and staff who could become lifelong friends and mentors. An optional overnight stay in the dorms is available for visiting student guests ages 16–21. Come see why SAU feels like home and why so many students choose to Grow Deep Roots here! Register here.

The University of Michigan-Dearborn invites prospective undergraduate students and their guests to explore campus and discover the Dearborn Difference at Spring Open House on April 11, 9:30am-1:00pm ! Tour the beautiful campus, connect with academic programs and campus resources at the browsing fair, and attend informative presentations. Attendees will have opportunities to speak directly with faculty, admissions, financial aid, and other departments throughout the event. Register here.

Join University of Michigan-Flint for their upcoming on-campus Nursing & Health Professions Spotlight event on Wednesday, April 22nd from 6-8 PM, with check-in beginning at 5:30 PM. Step inside their health science facilities and explore what the University of Michigan-Flint has to offer to future medical and health professionals. You'll also have the opportunity to connect with program-specific faculty. Appetizers and beverages will be provided. Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot here!

The Michigan College Guide is a tool to help scholars find a path to the right colleges. This is a comprehensive guide to Michigan's public and private colleges and universities. Click here to take a look!

Join Girls Who Code's virtual Summer Programs and embark on an exciting coding adventure! With the flexible Pathways option, you'll gain coding skills, make lifelong friends, and connect with industry mentors. Pathways is a self-paced, six-week program focused on AI, cybersecurity, and more, with real-world projects and pro insights. Applications are open and only available for students grades 8-12. Apply by February 25 for priority consideration. Applications close on April 10, 2026. No fees, just fun and learning! Click here for more information and here to apply.

Future Ready Scholars at the University of Michigan is a free STEM-focused college and career preparation program that invites high school students across Southeast Michigan to see themselves as future innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders. During a two-week immersive summer experience on the U-M Ann Arbor campus, scholars engage in the Engineering Design Process to address real-world challenges that matter to them while exploring STEM majors and authentic engineering practices. Guided by University of Michigan instructors and students, participants work in collaborative teams that build confidence, curiosity, and a strong sense of belonging within a collegiate environment. Continued engagement through monthly Saturday Sessions provides sustained opportunities for career awareness, mentorship, and exploration. Camp Dates are July 5-17, 2026. Application Deadline is April 5, 2026. Click here to apply.

Quantum Motor City is a free summer camp in quantum computing and quantum technology at Michigan State University for high school students. In the camp, you will program a real quantum computer, tour a quantum computing lab, get tips on applying to college and experience what college is like, and get career advice from students, MSU professors and IBM scientists. Camp dates are July 29-31, 2026. Application Deadline is April 18, 2026. Click here to apply.

Teacher Education Academy and Kinesiology Academy at Michigan State University invites current 11th graders to apply to one of two highly selective, residential, pre-college programs. These programs are committed to cultivating and increasing diversity in the fields of Education and Kinesiology by recruiting students from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. The program dates are July 5, 2026 – July 10, 2026.

Both residential programs are hosted on the campus of Michigan State University and are intended to increase college preparation and readiness, as well as nurture an interest in careers in Education, particularly Urban Education, and Kinesiology. The applications close on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 5 pm so apply today! Click here for more information on how to apply.

The Biomedical Career Advancement Program (BCAP) at Wayne State University is a 6-week summer research experience for 10th-12th graders exploring research and health science careers. BCAP is also an amazing opportunity to meet like-minded students, gain direct mentorship from health professionals, and MUCH MORE! Students work alongside senior research/clinical faculty and their staff to explore research investigation in a highly enriched environment. The applications close on Friday, April 24, 2026, so apply today! Click here for more information on how to apply.

The Bridges to Success program is a 3-week summer program for 10th and 11th-grade students. This summer program is focused on college readiness and career planning and will take place from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. from Monday, July 6 - Thursday, July 23, 2026 at OCC's Royal Oak campus.

Students can expect to:

• Participate in two courses designed to prepare them for college
• Have breakfast and lunch provided
• Explore diverse career paths
• Have the opportunity to earn up to four college credits

All steps to register must be completed by Friday, May 1, 2026. Spots are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Additional applicants will be placed on a waitlist. Click here for more information.

Applications are now open for the Silas Norman Medical Scholars (SINORMS) Summer Medical Academy: an engaging, in-person program designed for students entering 7th–9th grade in Fall 2026. Hosted at Wayne State School of Medicine, this free, week-long experience (July 27–31, 9 AM–4 PM) offers hands-on activities, exposure to medical careers, mentorship from professionals, and field trips to hospitals. Space is limited, so interested students are encouraged to apply early. Application deadline is May 28, 2026. Click here to register.

Dental Career Quest at Wayne County Community College District is a free 5-day summer program for high school students, offering hands-on experience in dental cleaning, lab work, and mentorship at the Northwest Campus. The program focuses on exposing students to dental assistant and hygienist careers. Lunch and materials are provided. Camp dates are July 20-July 24, 9am-3pm. Applications close on May 29, 2026. Click here for more information on how to apply.

Harvard University offers many free online courses on edX, such as Computer Science, Introduction to Artificial Intelligence with Python, and Persuasive Writing and Public Speaking. The courses cover a wide range of subjects, including data science, humanities, and public health. Click here to explore!

Unlock the future of AI for teens with IBM Skills Build! Learn the basics of this awesome technology and kickstart your skills with these free courses. Explore cutting-edge technologies, build essential workplace skills, and earn digital credentials to showcase what you’ve learned. Click here to register.

The University of Pennsylvania offers high school students a gateway to explore intellectually stimulating subjects and gain valuable knowledge with online courses such as Big Data and Education and Intellectual Property Law and Policy. Click here to view their catalog of courses.

Many colleges offer summer camps, but don’t wait too long to sign up, Summer Enrichment programs often fill up quickly and have upcoming registration deadlines. This is a great opportunity for students to explore their career interests and visit college campuses. Whether you're looking for options nearby or across the country, here are more opportunities to get you started!

Interested in skilled trades and heavy equipment? Caterpillar offers a pre-apprenticeship program for high school juniors and seniors that combines online and hands-on training. Students can earn industry-recognized certifications and gain direct connections to the Operating Engineers union: an excellent pathway into high-demand careers in the trades. Click here for more information.

With Home Depot's Path to Pro program, a career in the trades has never been more attainable. Scholars can learn about jobsite safety, tools and construction materials, team building, communication skills, and the basics of the most in-demand trades for free! The Program is open to individuals who are at least 16 years old and have obtained permission from their parent or legal guardian. Click here for more information.

Skilled trades offer excellent career options with good pay and great opportunities. These in-demand jobs are in industries like healthcare, IT, manufacturing, construction, and automotive. In Michigan, employers are looking to fill over 520,000 skilled trades jobs, with 45,000 new openings each year. Click here for a helpful resource with more information on career paths, schools, and average salaries.

OCC is hosting an In-Person Advanced Manufacturing Info Session where students (and families) can learn more about:

• EV, CNC, and Robotics job-training opportunities
• Industry certifications
• Employer Networking
• Funding and application process

Details:

• Wednesday June 10th at 6:00pm
• Location: Auburn Hills Campus/Building G -Room 240
• Registration Link: In-Person Advanced Manufacturing Info Session Registration

They are also hosting a Pre-Apprenticeship Pathways Virtual Info Session where students (and families) can learn more about:

• Pre-Apprenticeship opportunities in Skilled Trades and Construction
• Hands-on components
• Employer activities
• Funding and application process

Details:

• Wednesday June 17th at 12:00pm
• Location: Zoom
• Registration Link: Pre-Apprenticeship Pathways Virtual Info Session Registration

The Oakland County Acorn2Oak program offers grants to young individuals ages 8-18 who are passionate about making a difference. This initiative is designed to help youth bring their business ideas, community projects, educational goals, and extracurricular pursuits to life. Applicants can receive grants of up to $1,000 to support business development, community impact, educational achievements, and extracurricular activities. However, funds cannot be used for tuition, ongoing expenses, sporting equipment, or team registration fees. Don't miss out – the application deadline for this cycle is June 15th! Click here for more information.

Bloomfield Township Public Library is seeking the next generation of librarians! Their Next Chapter Intern will spend nine weeks this summer rotating through all library departments, learning to run programs and more! This paid position, at $15 per hour, is open to applicants entering their junior/senior year of high school or their first year of college/trade school. Click here to apply by April 23!

The Henry Ford Department of Surgery High School Mentorship Program is a free, three-part experience designed to introduce high school students to careers in medicine and healthcare through early exposure, hands-on learning, and professional mentorship. This free program connects students with surgeons, medical trainees, and healthcare professionals who provide real-world insight into medical careers and help students understand what it truly takes to succeed in healthcare. Click here for more details.

Join the WSU Math Corps Summer Camp & High School Bridge Program for students entering grades 7th-9th in the fall. High school students entering grades 10th-12th can apply as paid Teaching Assistants (TAs) and Program Assistants (PAs). Students must be a resident of Detroit, Hamtramck, or Highland Park. Thanks to the support of Wayne State University and generous donors, tuition is free for all students. Program dates are July 6 – August 13, 2026.

• Middle school students will receive instruction from University faculty and engage in fun, hands-on learning led by college and high school students.
• High school TAs and PAs will gain teaching experience and deepen their math knowledge.
• All accepted students receive program supplies and a Math Corps T-shirt.

Application deadline for high school: April 24, 2026, or until all spots are filled, and May 1, 2026 for middle school. Click here for more details and application instructions.

Oakland County Michigan Works! helps youth ages 16-24 pursue internships year-round. Positions are available in a various industries at locations throughout Oakland County. If you would like to explore internship options with a career advisor, please complete the Oakland NEXT Application and select “Internship” as the program of interest. A career advisor will reach out to you directly to discuss available internship opportunities and help you move forward on your career pathway to success!

Students wanting to get involved in environmental advocacy should consider the offerings of Seaside Sustainability, which allows student interns from all over the world to join the fight for climate action in a remote environment. From writing and editing newsletters, to researching climate adaptation strategies, to devising strategies to improve environmental literacy, there are ways for everyone to get involved in saving our planet. Click here for more information.

The U.S. Department of State's Pathways Internship Program includes both the Internship Experience Program (IEP) and the Internship Temporary Program (ITEP). Both programs are targeted toward U.S. citizens enrolled in a wide variety of educational institutions from high school to graduate school and professional academic levels. Both programs provide students with opportunities to explore Federal careers while being paid for the work performed. Internship vacancy announcements are posted on USAJobs, year-round, on an as-needed basis with positions located across the United States. Click here for more information.

SER Metro Detroit is hosting a Youth Job & Resource Fair on Friday, April 10 at 11:00am-3:00pm! They are bringing together top employers, education programs and community resources in one place. Whether you're looking for a job, exploring career paths, or need access to community support, this is the event to attend. The location is Samaritan Center in the Ford Wellness Center. Click here to register.

Job Developers Alliance (JDA) brings you the 3rd Annual Apprenticeship Fair on Monday, April 13 at 3:00pm-6:00pm! Submit your registration to reserve your place to meet industry professionals and secure opportunities for your vocational future. Registration will remain open until April 13, 2026. The location is Washtenaw Community College, Morris Lawrence Building Atrium, 4800 E. Huron River Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48105. Click here to register!

Burger King is currently hiring Part-Time Crew Members to support their Southfield locations. This is a great opportunity to provide superior customer service to your local community! Applicants must be at least 16 years of age. Click here to apply.

Christian Tabernacle (CTAB) is seeking Summer Camp Counselors ages 14-18, who want to gain real-world experience while helping younger campers have an amazing Summer! Counselors can:

• Earn Community service hours
• Build leadership skills
• Receive a $200 stipend every two weeks

Choose your shift:: 9am-1pm, (or) 1pm-4pm. Interested? Contact Ms. Latia, Program Director: summer.campctab@gmail.com

Detroit Parks Coalition (DPC) is seeking passionate and enthusiastic youth ambassadors to help bridge the gap! As a Youth Ambassador, you will play a vital role in bridging the gap between the city's parks organizations and its younger residents. Your responsibilities will include representing youth interests on parks organizations' boards, creating engaging social content, and fostering community engagement in park activities and programs. This is an exciting opportunity for Detroit residents ages 15-23 that are passionate about parks, community engagement, and making a positive impact in their surrounding communities. This is a paid position from March 2026-October 2026 with an expected time commitment of no more than 10-15 hours per month. Click here for more information.

The Farmington Hills Special Services Division is currently hiring Lifeguards for all of the city pools. This is an exciting opportunity to learn life saving skills. Applicants must be at least 15 years of age. Click here for more information.

Gordon Food Service store is currently hiring Part-Time Store Associates to support their Royal Oak location. This is a great opportunity to provide superior customer service to your local community! Applicants must be at least 16 years of age. Click here to apply.

Joe’s Produce Gourmet Market is looking for a reliable and motivated Produce Department Closer to join their team on weekends and/or after school. The schedule is Saturdays & Sundays, 12:30 PM – 8:30 PM; or Weekdays after school. This role is perfect for high school students who want to gain work experience, learn responsibility, and be part of a fast-paced, friendly retail environment. As a closer, you’ll help keep the produce department looking fresh, clean, and ready for the next day. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age. Click here to apply.

McDonald’s in Oak Park is currently hiring Crew Team Members. They offer opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed every day. By offering industry-leading education programs and world-class training, they provide opportunities that inspire confidence and foster valuable skills to help employees thrive wherever they are on their journey. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age. Click here to apply.

Smoothie King is looking for Team Members to join their Southfield team! If you’re looking for a fun team environment, and a place where you can build leadership skills, they’d love to meet you. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age. Click here to apply.

The City of Livonia Parks & Recreation is offering several part-time positions for high school students ages 15 and older. Parks & Rec Level 1 contains the following positions:

• Athletic Attendant (must be at least 16 years old)
• Facility Attendant
• Fit Hub Attendant

Click here to apply.

Corewell Health is proud to offer job shadowing experiences for students ages 16 and above to observe a professional and ask questions about their career in a “hands-off” environment. These experiences are permitted up to 40 hours per calendar year. Please note that filling out the form does not guarantee placement, and they are unable to support job shadows with physicians at this time. Click here to express interest in a job shadow experience at Corewell Health.

McLaren Macomb is proud to offer a job shadowing/career observation experience for prospective healthcare students ages 16 and above to gain the experience to observe health-care employees in a workplace setting. Job shadows are typically only available Monday through Friday and are designed to be a one-time observation only for two (2) hours. Click here for more information and here to apply.

The Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner's office is excited to offer job shadowing opportunities for interested persons, ages 16 and older, who are entering or actively participating in the workforce. This unique opportunity provides participants with the opportunity to observe a WRC employee performing their daily work routine in their environment. Their mission is to excite potential candidates about a career in the water industry by allowing them to explore a realistic picture of the tasks performed for a specific job. Participants will receive an official certificate of completion at the end of the job shadow. Submit Your Request for a Job Shadow

Forage is a risk-free way to explore careers with hundreds of free job simulations designed by the world's top employers. Practice your skills with example tasks and build your confidence to ace your applications virtually!

• In just a number of hours, complete a series tasks guided by pre-recorded videos and example answers from teams at leading companies.
• Earn a certificate and add it to your resume and LinkedIn as an extra curricular activity.
• Stand out in applications. Confidently answer interview questions and explain why you're a good fit.
• No live sessions, all self-paced, and no applications or experience required! Click here for more information.

It’s more than words on a page, it’s how you showcase your skills, show off your communication style, craft your professional summary, and make an amazing first impression. Think of it this way: your resume is your first interview. So, what story does yours tell? Check out these examples to get you started!

Imagine this: you’re in an elevator with someone important. What do you say before the doors open? Your 30-second elevator pitch is your secret weapon when networking : a quick, confident way to introduce yourself, share what you’re all about, and leave them wanting more. Ready to wow in half a minute? Let’s craft your perfect pitch here.

It’s more than just answering questions, it’s how you plan your story, prepare your examples, practice your delivery, and present yourself with confidence. Think of it this way: every interview is a performance with a purpose. So, how well are you showcasing your skills and experience? Use the 4 P’s to make a strong, lasting impression from the very first question.

The Michigan Department of Corrections is hosting the first MDOC Career Academy this June at Green Oaks Training and Professional Development Center! This free opportunity allows 15- to 20-year-olds interested in a career in corrections to explore available opportunities - while participating in hands-on activities with experienced professionals. Join them for an exciting and informative week that could shape your future career! The Application Deadline is May 9, 2026. Click here to apply.

Touch A Job 2026 is taking place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 9am to 1pm at Schoolcraft College's Manufacturing and Engineering Center in Livonia, this event introduces middle and high school students (and their parents!) to hands-on careers that don’t require a four-year degree — but offer incredible long-term opportunities. Students will rotate through 45-minute sessions at various career sites in and around the Manufacturing and Engineering Center. Click here to register.

MSU Tollgate Farm Stewards Teen Leadership Program provides a safe place for social, emotional, and physical growth. High School students (Entering Grades 10-12) can take the next steps in leadership by volunteering at Tollgate Farm! Stewards guide campers, collaborate with peers, and assist our educational staff. This final stage in Tollgate’s progressive leadership program showcases Stewards as leaders who are proactive, interactive, and creative problem solvers. No previous Farm Camp experience required. Steward Teen Leadership Program: Weekly Sessions from June 15 - August 28, 2026, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

• 8:30 AM- 4:30 PM, Monday-Friday
• Grades 10-12
• Resume required
• 1st time Stewards must complete a 20-minute virtual interview

Click here for more information.

The Learning Network (TLN) is a Youth Employability Skills Program designed to help 10th-12th graders build real-world skills in a supportive and engaging environment. Over six Saturday sessions, you’ll connect with professional speakers and take part in hands-on activities focused on things like resume writing, interviewing, job searching, personal branding, and more. You’ll also explore different career paths and learn how to succeed in diverse workplaces. One of the best parts? You’ll earn a $50 stipend for each session you attend! Sessions begin on April 25. Click here for more information.

Mrs. Foster

Career and Education Navigator

University K-12 Academy

Counseling Office

Phone: 810-962-1505

autumn.foster@southfieldk12.org

Click Here to schedule a meeting with me