Q: What is Major Choice?
A: Major Choice is a career exploration and mentorship program designed to help high school students with IEPs or 504 plans (or diagnosed disabilities) discover their passions, explore potential career paths, and develop essential skills for future success.
Q: How much does Major Choice cost?
A: The cost of Major Choice varies depending on the specific services and support provided. However, if your child has an IEP, 504 plan, or diagnosed disability, they may be eligible for funding through New Hampshire Vocational Rehabilitation (VRNH). We can help you explore this option during the application process.
Q: Does my child need to apply to Major Choice?
A: Yes, every student needs to apply and take part in a 45-minute interview. We’ve made the interview student-friendly, and it helps ensure that Major Choice is a good fit for your child and their goals.
Q: What are the admission requirements for Major Choice?
A: Please visit the Major Choice Eligibility Requirements document for a complete list of admission requirements. You can also find more information on our website at www.majorchoice.com
Q: What are the eligibility requirements for VRNH funding?
A: To learn about specific requirements needed to receive VRNH funding, please contact your nearest VRNH office or visit their website.
Q: How long does the VRNH eligibility process take to get approved for funding?
A: The process can take up to 60 days, but many applications are approved more quickly.
Q: Can my child participate in Major Choice if they do not have a disability?
A: Yes, we offer private pay options for students who do not have a disability. However, these options are not covered by VRNH.
Q: How does my child apply for Major Choice?
A: You can easily apply online at MajorChoice.com. Just click the "Apply Now" button at the top of the page to get started.
Q: Does my child need to be fully enrolled in VRNH before they can start Major Choice?
A: No, students can start the Major Choice program once VRNH confirms that they are eligible or "potentially eligible" for services, and after Major Choice receives approval from VRNH.
Q: What if my child is unsure about their career goals?
A: That’s completely normal! Major Choice is designed to help students explore different options and find what interests them. With personalized guidance and career exploration activities, your child will gain clarity and confidence in choosing a career path.
Q: What type of support will my child receive in Major Choice?
A: Your child will receive invaluable one-on-one support from an experienced professional Mentor who will guide them through each step of the program, including:
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Career Exploration: The mentor will assist in using self-assessments, interest inventories, and research tools to identify strengths and passions.
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Skill Development: Together, they will work on developing key skills, including networking, interview techniques, and other essential soft skills.
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Educational Direction: They will explore post-high school educational options, such as college, community college, and vocational training, and evaluate the best choices for their future.
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Actionable Career Planning: The mentor will help create a detailed, actionable plan for career goals, covering both immediate opportunities like entry-level jobs, internships, and volunteering, as well as long-term paths such as trade schools, college, and apprenticeships.
Q: How long does the Major Choice program last?
A: The program's length can vary depending on the student's individual needs and goals. However, most students complete the program within 10-12 weeks.
Q: How will I know if my child is making progress in Major Choice?
A: We provide regular updates to parents/guardians and school counselors, outlining the students progress and how you may support them. You'll also have the opportunity to meet with Major Choice staff to discuss your child's progress and future plans.
Q: What documents are needed for VRNH to fund Major Choice?
A: To get started, parents or guardians will need to fill out a release form, the Student Transition Services form, and the Major Choice application. They’ll also need to provide their child’s IEP or 504 plan. If those aren’t available, a document from a licensed medical or psychological professional confirming the diagnosis will be required.
Q: Is Major Choice offered only as a virtual course?
A:Yes, Major Choice is currently offered exclusively as a virtual course. However, the virtual format doesn't hinder the process at all, as the curriculum is designed to thrive in a one-on- one, online environment.
Q: Can students complete the course on a smartphone?
A: No, the course is designed to be completed on a laptop or desktop computer. This setup helps avoid interruptions and ensures a smoother learning experience.
Q: What time commitment can students expect for this course?
A: Students should expect to meet with their mentor twice a week for 45 minutes each session. Additionally, they will need to complete approximately 90 minutes of homework each week.
Q: Can students manage the course while attending school or participating in other activities?
A: Absolutely! The majority of our students successfully complete Major Choice while balancing school and/or activities like clubs and sports.
Q: What happens if a student misses a meeting with their mentor?
A: We ask students to treat this course as a precursor to a job. If the student is going to miss a meeting, we ask the student (not the parent) to notify the mentor. Continued unannounced absences may result in removal from the course.
Q: Who are the Major Choice mentors?
A: Major Choice mentors are experienced professionals in the fields of education, social work, and psychology. We coordinate mentors and students to best meet the needs and personality of students.