Scholarships and Beyond: Finding resources for life after high school

STARTING COLLEGE 

As you start to plan your college experience, you might be also thinking about the ways your mental health will play into your experiences. Here are some resources to help navigate that process:

• Check out NAMI National's College Guide or Teen Mental Health’s College Transition Guide to give you some things to think about when it comes to starting the journey towards college. You can also text 89800 to receive the Jed Foundation’s Guide to college-prep!

• Did you know some colleges offer counseling services that are included in your tuition? Check out your school's policies and look here if you want to get more information about how this process works.

• Get connected to others who are interested in mental health advocacy by locating your local Active Minds chapter or looking through your school's directory to find other mental health student groups.

• Sometimes your experiences with mental illness can lead you to consider pursuing a career in behavioral health - look at some of the options here.

• Looking for things outside of college? Look up volunteer opportunities in your area!

SCHOLARSHIPS

If you're looking for help funding your college experience, take a look at the following:

• Guide for applying to scholarships: Click here

• General scholarship finder: Click here or here

• Scholarships for those living with mental illness:  Click here or here

• Scholarships for those living with disabilities:  Click here or here

• Scholarships for those pursuing a career in behavioral health: Click here

HOW TO FIND A JOB

Whether you're looking for a job during high school or looking to find work after you graduate, here are some suggestions for finding the right fit:

• Look up tips and tricks for writing your first resume and cover letter.

• Call around to job sites you'd enjoy working at or look online for listings.

• Visit CareerOneStop to help you get some extra tools for future careers, job applications, and more.

• Consider whether disclosing your mental illness to your employer is right for you.

• Access the Job Accomodation Network for resources on how to apply for and discuss accomodations at your work environment.

• See if your school guidance counselor or adviser can help guide you to the right job.

• If you need extra support in finding or keeping employment because of your mental illness or disability, look into:

  • The Minnesota Youth Program

  • Vocational Rehabilitation Services

  • Extended Employment for People with Serious Mental Illness