Cyber Advice to Help You Plan for the Future

• Not quite sure what to do with your life?
• No idea how you'll ever pay for post-secondary education?
• Searching for a suitable job or career?

Don't worry - you're not alone. As many of us are entering high school or getting ready to leave, we are left wondering what to do after completing twelve agonizing, excruciating and somewhat... helpful years of school (thirteen if you count kindergarten). Students headed to post-secondary may be questioning what and where to study, how to transfer schools or how to apply for financial aid. And there are always those of us who aren't quite ready for a career but need a job. Well, you needn't worry any longer! With the new, amended Government of Alberta ALIS (Alberta Learning Information Service) website, www.alis.gov.ab.ca, all your questions will be answered, and the stress you feel will decrease considerably.

The website contains various resources for high-school students -everything from why staying in school is crucial and beneficial, to finding ways of realizing what you want to do in the world. You can also learn about the importance and benefits of scholarships. “There are lists of hundreds of scholarships, bursaries and awards," says Geoff Perry an ALIS representative. It helps you get a better sense of understanding your future and provides steps you may want to follow.

Those planning on going to post-secondary can use this site as well. It contains information about bursaries, applying online, student finance and more. It will answer questions like:

• Degree or diploma?
• University or trades?
• Where to look for workplace training.

It provides tips that you'll find useful and will answer your questions about different schools, programs, financing options, application processes and transferring policies.

You can also find out about online job searches and the new tools and techniques used to find jobs. Moreover, you will have access to job postings, learn about different companies or industries and find out what types of jobs fit your lifestyle. “The site helps [you] figure out what you're good at using career planning tools and learn[ing] about what occupations are out there from over 500 occupational profiles," says Perry. There is also info about self-employment and small businesses. If you are seeking a career, there are tips for finding the perfect one. This website also provides information for education/training seekers, educators/counsellors and information about workplace resources and eProducts and Services.

If you are someone who needs a little advice about your future or just want a few questions answered, you should visit www.alis.gov.ab.ca, and I promise you, it will be profitable.