What do you need to know to start thinking about the field of education?

1. Talk to several of your favorite teachers about why they chose to teach. Ask them what they see as the benefits and the challenges to teaching in today’s schools.
   
2. Take the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) as practice for the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). Some colleges require the American College Test (ACT). Make sure you check college catalogs for which one to take. Talk to your high school counselor about taking these tests.
   
3. Locate a school of education that fits your need. Click here for tips on choosing a college for teacher education.
   
4. Apply for admission to the college or university of your choice. Applications are available through public high school or college counselors’ offices. Click here for a helpful site.
   
5. Check all financial aid resources (student loans, grants, scholarships, work/study programs) to help you in your education quest. Click here for the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency. Parents, click here for information about investing now for your child’s future college expenses.
   
6. Learn the requirements for becoming a public school teacher in Pennsylvania. Check with your public high school counselor and click here the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s web site.