As a young adult, finding work-based learning experiences on your own can be challenging.

The process of locating work-based learning opportunities and jobs, filling out applications and forms, and speaking with employers may be foreign to you.

Reach out and ask for support from those who care about your success.

Below are some specific steps you can take with potential members of your team for success — your school, your family, community resources, and mentors. Your School1. Visit your career centre, counselling/advising office to find work based learning opportunities.

2. Participate in available orientations, workshops, and individual counselling sessions to improve your job-search skills.

3. Discuss the types of work setting accommodations you may need with coordinators and your guidance counsellors; also, ask them for suggestions.

4. If you have an Individual Education Plan (IEP), make sure mainstream work-based learning and career preparation activities are included; talk with your teacher/counsellor about activities that interest you. Your Family1. Talk to your family members about the world of work. Those who have worked many years may be your best resources!

2. Contact your school counsellor.

3. Learn to advocate in your Education Development. Ask a parent or supporter to help identify a strategy.

4. Start networking. Begin with people you know (family member, employers, co-workers, co-workers, friends, neighbours, etc.). Talk to these people about work experiences you are seeking.

They may know of new leads or help expand your network further.Love your workFinally: It’s important to remember that when you love the work you do, you will do it well. You will also be more motivated, have boundless energy, be confident in your direction in life, success will come naturally, you will enjoy life more and find that work is fun once again.

You will also find that opportunities will come your way and those around you will notice the difference.