10 Ways To Spend Your First Year Out Of High School If You Didn't Get The Marks You Needed

Because 2020 can be productive, memorable and fulfilling if you want it to be.

1. Start the new year with a bang by making a bucket list of personal and career goals.

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One of the best things you can do at the start of the year is make a list of things you want to do. Whether you're someone who needs a little structure, or just love the feeling of achievement, writing down a list of goals that you want to achieve in life will help keep you inspired and motivated.

Your goals could be anything from becoming an engineer, to writing a book, visiting Bali or buying a car. Once you've written them down, hang them up in your room so that you'll look at them every. single. day.

2. Consider a pathway into university.

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If you do know where you want to go but didn't get the marks you needed, there are options — studying the same curriculum in a supportive environment at The College at Western Sydney University will enable you to transfer into the second year of your chosen degree at Western Sydney University, should you meet the minimum requirements.

For example, if you want to get into social science but didn’t get into a Social Science degree straight off the bat, enrolling into a Diploma in Social Science at Western Sydney University The College will enable you to transfer into the degree at Western Sydney University after one year of full-time study.

3. Volunteer in an area that you're passionate about.

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Whether it's climate change, homelessness or illiteracy, there are so many amazing organisations working across a variety of different issues that could use your help. As well as helping create positive change within your community, you'll learn organisational and teamwork skills, as well as get first-hand experience of what it means to work in a professional capacity.

4. Explore a hobby or interest more deeply.

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Maybe you're into arts and music, or maybe you're a great athlete — whatever your hobbies and interests are, your first year out of high school is a great opportunity to dive deep and explore your passions. From getting up early to train or scheduling daily studio time to perfect your practice, cultivating more discipline around your passions will help you work out whether they're possible career avenues.

5. Attend arts, cultural, sporting or entrepreneurial events that align with your interests and values.

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The best thing about finishing high school and being out in "the real world" is that you have more time and freedom to explore different social circles. Attending different events, retreats or fun activities that align with your interests and values will help you meet like-minded people. Forming your own unique circle of friends and getting involved with different communities will enable you to find opportunities that might be of interest to you.

6. Get a part-time job that'll expose you to lots of different types of people.

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Getting a part-time job is a great way to build up real-life work experience, as well as keep your bank account healthy. Whether you find a gig in retail, hospitality or any other industry, you'll learn some pretty important soft skills, like customer service and the art of conversation. Plus, you might even meet some people who can help you figure out what you want your future career to look like.

7. Move out of home for the first time.

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Not many things will help you level up in the life skills department as much as moving out of home. From learning how to budget, sorting out your food and laundry and having to hold down a job to pay for rent, moving out will quickly teach you to take responsibility for yourself. Plus, there are all the fun perks — and learning opportunities — of moving out with mates.

8. Go to meet-ups and networking events that'll help you get an idea of which industry you might want to work in.

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If you're keen to see what different industries are like, going to industry meet-ups and networking events can give you great insights as to what to expect. Join relevant groups on social media and networking sites and keep an eye out on upcoming events that might take your fancy.

9. Start a business.

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If you think you want to study business one day, why not try to make your own? Whether you're selling art and craft online, wanting to develop an app or trying to solve a bigger consumer problem, there's no better time to give it a shot than now. And don't worry about failing — even if your business doesn't last long-term, you'll learn some pretty awesome lessons in the process.

10. And finally, try a bunch of sport or exercise regimes.

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One of the best things that you can do for your overall wellbeing is to get a sport or exercise regime going. Whether it's yoga, circuit training, boxing or anything in between, doing regular exercise will help get you into a healthier headspace. Plus, you'll also feel your body getting stronger, too.

The College at Western Sydney University can help guarantee you entry into your chosen uni degree so you can start building your career.

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