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Duke University
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Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

What high school subjects should I focus on for job applications?

I'm trying to plan my classes for the next year, and I want to choose subjects that will look good on job applications right after high school. Are there any particular subjects that are especially helpful or impressive to employers?

a year ago

The subjects you should focus on in high school largely depend on the type of job you're interested in. Here are a few general areas that could be helpful:

1. Math: Courses like algebra, geometry, and calculus can demonstrate your quantitative reasoning skills, which are valuable in many fields, especially engineering, logistics, or finance.

2. Science: Subjects like biology, chemistry, physics will not only increase your knowledge but give you the skills to think analytically and solve complex problems, which are qualities many employers look for. These subjects are particularly important if you're interested in healthcare, environment, research, or similar sectors.

3. English: In any industry, communication is key. Taking advanced English courses can improve your written and verbal communication skills.

4. Computer Science: Today, virtually every industry interacts with technology to some degree. Learning to code in languages like Python or Java, or even getting familiar with tools like Excel, can make you a more competitive candidate.

5. Foreign Languages: Knowing a second language is a great asset in many fields, especially in businesses with a global presence.

6. Career Technical Education (CTE) Classes: These courses can provide specific skills in fields such as healthcare, information technology, hospitality, agriculture, and more. If your school provides these, it’s worth considering depending on your career interest.

7. Social Studies: If you aim for jobs within social work, law, journalism, government, or any job where understanding social dynamics is crucial, classes such as psychology, sociology, or politics can be beneficial.

Remember that it's also important to do well in the subjects you pick, as good grades can underscore your dedication and ability to work hard, which employers will appreciate. Finally, keep in mind that employers will also be interested in soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which can be demonstrated through extracurricular activities.

a year ago

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