How exciting...

[AnotherAnon]

So, I've worked extremely hard to get excellent grades throughout school. I finally took the ACT last spring (junior/senior years) and I got outstanding scores. I keep getting offers for great schools via mail and email. That sounds great so far...

But I don't have money to afford any of it. In fact, with the US economy like this, I'll be lucky to have any job. I have no job experience, and no references. Everyone else gets a job from friends working somewhere, or parents owning somewhere. I don't really have any friends.

So generally I worked way too hard, and just found out that it's all useless crap, and my life is a lie. I'm soooo happy about that.

 

[IgnoredOne]

Congratulations on your grades! Do you also have good SAT scores?

You're young and with your grades, have one excellent piece of the jigsaw puzzle of life - understand that what you did isn't a lie - but it may be only part of the larger puzzle of success. If you are getting offers from schools, you may also look to see if you can get scholarships or achievement-based financial aid to assist you with your higher education.

It may be helpful to develop networking skills, and if you do not have any friends at the moment, it may help to develop professional friendships even online through a system such as LinkedIn. It doesn't hurt to write to people there for their advice; you might even find someone who may be willing to mentor you. Furthermore, there are professional or technical forums that always have individuals scouting out for people with exceptional skills.

Don't give up; the economy may seem poor, but it is particularly penaltized only for some individuals. Maintain that you are the best of the best and you will always find opportunities for you; just remember to keep striving ahead and there will be a way for you.

Let me know if you need any advice in the specific to the IT industry.

 

[SophiaGrace]

Yes, scholarships. Go for them.