This is my informal proposal for a class called "Life 101".These skills encourage students to be independent and more prepared for adult life. The class will be mandatory for all seniors that want to graduate, and will last the full school year, so everything is fresh in their minds before they are thrown into the real world.
1. How to pay bills.
Luckily, I don't have to worry about this yet. However, I know it is lurking in the very near future for me and I have absolutely no idea how to do it. Yes, I have my parents to help me, but what about all the other confused 20somethings that don't have anyone to help them?
2. How to survive an interview.
From the resume writing, so the speaking part.
3. Basic US history facts.
All of the US Presidents, when the Declaration of Independence was signed, the Constitution, Civil War, etc. Yes, I am fully aware that these things are currently taught in public schools. But somehow, more people can correctly identify which TV show Snooki was on, and fail to identify when the United States of America gained its independence (watch the video here).
4. How to cook a meal.
Something simple, healthy, and filling. Something, anything, besides Ramen.
5. How to budget.
Keeping track of how much you are spending and what is in your bank account is such an important skill to have, especially once you get to college and can't just sneak a $20 out of your Dad's wallet as easily (not that I've ever done that....)
6. How to apply for a credit card.
Another thing that I should, but don't, have any idea how to do.
7. Another language.
Not only does it open up so many opportunities for traveling and communicating with so many more people, but it looks awesome on resumes. Our world is becoming more and more culturally mixed. More people in the world today speak Chinese and Spanish than they do English.
8. How to change a flat tire.
Many schools offer classes like Car Care 101, but not many students take it. Eventually students will have a car, and will more than likely get a flat at some point. But have no fear, because they took Life 101, they can change it themselves!
9. How to read a map.
Even though most people are cars have access to GPS, what happens when you take the wrong exit and technology fails you? Paper never just stops working.
10. How to book a travel ticket.
Plane, train, bus, etc. Pleasure or other purpose, everyone will likely need to get somewhere without a car.
11. How to look for insurance.
Just thinking about having to do this is stressing me out.
12. How to set a table.
You know, for when you need to set up for the meal you've been taught to cook.
13. How to do laundry.
Because clothes don't just wash themselves.
14. How to make a bed with clean sheets.
You'd be surprised how many people don't know how to do this.
15. How to write a check.
Something you'll need to know to pay your bills.
16.) How to pay taxes.
When do I do it? Can I do it on my own? Where do I even start?
17. How to address an envelope.
Letter writing is a lost art that needs to be revived. Or, at least you'll need to know how to do it to send in the checks that you have to pay the bills you need to pay.
18. How to clean.
Properly. The bathroom, the living room, your room, the kitchen. Germs live everywhere!
19. How to go grocery shopping.
Making lists, finding deals, keeping track of how much you're spending, etc.
20. How to use public transportation.
It's not as scary or confusing as people make it out to be!
21. How to manage time.
There's a lot to manage once you get to college and eventually become employed. Assignments, activities, work, eating, socializing, exercising. It can get really overwhelming sometimes.
22. How to use kitchen appliances.
You know, to cook meals other than the one you've already learned.
23. Basic first aid.
Life happens. You should be able to help yourself when you get a little scrape or infection. Or God forbid, you get sick. What medicine do you take? How serious is serious enough to require professiona medical attention?
24. How to use tools and fix things.
We can't just expect everyone to rely on the "cute guy down the hall" anymore....especially if nobody is even teaching him how to fix things.
25. Problem solving.
People run into problems all the time. Problems with other people, technology, road blocks. When life throws curveballs, students need to learn how to deal with the various situations they might encounter.
