Personal Growth Motivates Teens (NAPSA)—Ateenager’s life isn’t what it used to be. A growing numberof college-bound teens are using their free time to strengthen their resumes with academic, ath- letic and community-related achievements. Still, despite the pressure-filled college admissions process, teenagers say fun and personal growth are their top motivators. “I do this for myself—not to impress parents, teachersor college admission boards,” says Princeton University student and former Wendy’s High School Heisman National Winner Katie Zaeh. “It feels good to get involved, meet people and learn from them. Thislifestyle has helped me achieve success in multiple aspects of mylife.” Zaeh is not alone. Conduct an informal survey of teens and you'll find many giving up video games or TV time with friends to participate in new and innovative activities that can help them reach future vocational goals. From an internship at a hospital with the hope of enrolling in medical school to participating in a performingarts pro- gram with the goal of Broadway or Hollywood stardom, teenagers are taking proactive steps to positively impact their futures. Zaeh and Wendy’s High School Heisman, a recognition program that honors high school seniors whoare citizen-scholar-athletes, recommendthese tips for students eager to pursue excellence and take advantage of their time outside the classroom: Athletes, there’s no such thing as “off-season.” Don’t just wait until your school’s sport is “in-season” to play. Get involved in sporting camps and intramural leagues a! D throughout the year. Whether you coach younger athletes or participate in a traveling league, the yearround training will show your dedication to the sport and pay off with improvedskills, too. Need to work? Make your work work for you. Ever dream about opening your own restau- rant? Start by getting experience with traditional hostess and waitstaff jobs. Later, ask if you can shadow the ownerfor a few days. Get involved and give back. Love kids? Try mentoringor tutoring. Long to be an architect? Join a group to help rebuild communities. You'll feel great about volunteering and learn more about your area of interest. It’s okay to take a break. A little rest and relaxation does the body—and mind—good. Get lost in an interesting book that might spark conversations—whetherit’s an autobiography by your favorite athlete or musician or the latest best-seller. * Don’t just dream aboutit, live it. School vacations and weekends are a perfect time to look toward your future. Spend some of your time surfing the Webfor free, online scholarship services and recognition programs. For more information on the Wendy’s program, www.wendysheisman.com. visit
