Career Planning

Madison has a vision for all students – that they will not only graduate, but graduate with the skills and abilities to be successful in college, career and community.

We want our students to master academic content, build creativity, confidence and cultural competence, gain a strong sense of self and interpersonal skills and have a growth mindset to help them continually build the skills and abilities to be successful. This vision for Madison’s graduates was developed with input from more than 2500 staff, students and community members.

This page is designed to help families and students navigate the world of work (career). You will find information on how to prepare for a career while still in high school, how to research careers to find the right fit for you, how to apply for a job and finally how to find youth employment. 

You have many supports and resources right at your school! Your school counselor, Experiential Learning Coordinator, Academic and Career Planning Coordinator and of course your teachers and other staff members can help point you in the right direction when it comes to planning for your future. Start talking to them today!

Preparing in High School

It is never too early to start thinking about careers that interest you. High school is a great time to experiment and try new things. This site will help you discover more about yourself, like your skills and interests and how they can apply to a future career. You will discover opportunities for real-life experiences like internships and apprenticeships while you are still in high school.  

Career Search

There are thousands of options when it comes to finding the right career for you - it can be overwhelming. The good part is you don't have to make a decision right now, you have time to explore your options. On this page you'll discover more information about the variety of pathways that you may choose to follow like military, apprenticeships, the trades, service organizations (like AmeriCorps) and two and four year colleges. 

Applying for a Job

Applying for a job can be tricky and intimidating if you have never done it before. This page will walk you through every step of the way. From acing your interview to creating a resume, this site has all the resources you need for nailing the job you want. 

Experiential Learning

Are you looking to earn a little extra cash or maybe get a jump start on your future career. Check out this site to find opportunities you can take advantage of today!

Finding Your Fit

How do you know if a particular college or career is right for you? The following resources can help you determine what you are looking for in a college and/or career. 

Xello - Log in through your school's home page. (Log in Instructions)

Big Future - Open to anyone

University HQ - Open to anyone 

Postsecondary Education (College)

67% of MMSD graduates enroll in a two or four year postsecondary institution or college. Our College Planning website is a great place to start to help you through the process of planning for college.

Trades 

Creating a Resume

A resume is the first impression that a company will have of you. It is extremely important that it looks professional and that you've highlighted all of your skills and abilities in an impactful way. A resume should include the following headings: 

• Name and Contact Information
• Education
• Work and/or Volunteer Experience
• Activities/Extracurriculars
• Certifications/Awards
• Skills
• References (These are not family members but are adults who can speak to your skills and abilities). It is important to always get permission prior to using someone as a reference. 

Here is a great example of a resume for a high school students which includes a great list of words that you may want to include. 

*Some jobs do not require you to submit a resume but they are helpful to have on hand as you complete the required Job Application. They can also help you stand out from the other applicants. 

Job Application

Nearly all jobs require you to complete an application. These may be online or pen and paper. Below are a few tips to help you in completing the application to ensure that you are called for an interview:

• Read the entire application before starting
• Be neat and complete (leave no blanks)
• Follow all directions on the application
• Do not use abbreviations (unless a sections is not applicable to you then you may put N/A)
• Proofread (and even have someone else look over the application before submitting)
• Be prepared to include contact information for your References

After submitting your application it is perfectly acceptable to call the manager after a few days to a week to follow up and ask if they have had time to review your application. 

Job Interview

The interview is probably the most important part of getting hired. This is your time to shine and sell yourself to your future employer. Sharing your strengths and abilities is not considered bragging, it is you convincing this employer that you are the right person for the job. Below are some tips and strategies for acing your job interview: 

• Dress nicely (Think clean, pressed and ready to impress!)
• Prepare (Do a little research about the company before your interview.)
• Practice (Role play with someone as you practice answering sample interview questions and prepare your elevator speech)
• Be on time! (In fact, show up 10-15 minutes early for your interview.)
• Shake hands with and Greet the interviewer.
• Be courteous and professional 
• Follow up (send a brief thank you email or note a day or two after your interview)

Jobs For Teens HQ is a great resource for finding more information. 

Requesting a Transcript 

Some jobs may require that you submit your high school transcript. Below are the instructions for requesting your transcript from your school. 

How Do I Order a Copy of My Transcript?

Transcripts may be ordered at Parchment.com by Madison Metropolitan School District graduates, guardians of students, and by current students (who are over the age of 18). This electronic service allows you to order transcripts online at any time and track the status of the transcripts that you have requested to be sent. Consult with your counselor determine if you qualify for a fee waiver.

How Do I Get a Copy of My Transcript for Personal Use?

Current Students and their families may download and print a copy of a transcript from Infinite Campus for personal use. 

Personal transcripts are not considered official and will not be accepted for admission purposes to colleges and universities, the Common Application, or the NCAA.  Most athletic offices, employers, and some scholarship applications will accept a printed copy of the personal transcript.

Transcripts needed for scholarship purposes are free.  In order to request an official transcript for scholarship purposes, please contact your counselor.  

Experiential Learning

Minors who will be 14 or 15 years old BEFORE OR ON their job’s start date are required by state law to get a work permit. Those 16+ do not need a work permit.

You will need the following documents in order to get a work permit. Please note that photographs are NOT acceptable and documents should NOT be expired:

• An ID issued by the State (Birth certificate, baptismal certificate, driver’s license/permit, State ID, or previous work permit), AND
• A letter from your employer stating they have hired you and lists what kind of business they are and what you’ll be doing, AND
• A letter from your parent/guardian giving permission for the student to accept the job and acquire a work permit (this may be a parent note or a signature on the employer’s letter), AND
• Social Security Card, or verification of number with a parent/guardian’s insurance or tax form, AND
• $10 (Typically in cash, bring exact change).

Where to get a work permit:

• MMSD Schools Currently Making Work Permits:
  • Vel Phillips Memorial High School
    • Visit your Neighborhood Office
  • Madison West High School
    • Visit your SLC Office
• Community Organizations Making Work Permits (By Appointment ONLY)
  • Briarpatch Youth Services
    • 608-245-2550
    • 2720 Rimrock Road (South Side)
  • Common Wealth Development
    • 608-516-3437
    • 1501 Williamson Street (East Side)