December: Plan for the future.

Manage your money during the holidays.

For many people, managing money this time of year is a challenge. Money management skills will help you avoid overspending on gifts and events.

• Talk to your parents about their spending/saving philosophies. How did they learn about money management?
• Research money management on the Internet.
  • Check out the NEFE Teen Resource Bureau site at www.ntrbonline.org.
  • Learn about budgeting, spending wisely, and saving at teen sites www.themint.org and www.gotmoola.com.
  • Take the "reality check" quiz at www.jumpstart.org to find out if your current choices and plans will support your ideal lifestyle.

Plan for next year.

Now is a good time to meet with your guidance counselor to discuss your plans for next year's classes.

• In many schools, the course structure changes dramatically in the junior year. Talk with your counselor to find out which electives will best prepare you for college.
• Discuss your "course map." Are you taking the required classes for graduation and for college preparation?
• Will you want to take AP courses in your senior year? If so, what prerequisite classes do you need to take in your junior year?

Stay involved.

Getting involved in activities, volunteer work, clubs, and sports will challenge you, expose you to new situations, and provide a well-deserved break from academics.

• Talk to your guidance counselor about community service. The holidays offer many opportunities to volunteer.
• Listen to announcements and find a friend who will attend a club meeting with you to check it out.
• If it's too late to join a winter athletic team or the cast of a play, ask the coach or director if there are other ways you can become involved. Keep an eye out for spring sports and activities.