Think About It [Questions to use in groups, or that teens can use on their own.]

—What was Rick’s situation just before he left foster care (in terms of having money saved, developed a job skill, readied himself for college, found a place to live)?

—What did Rick expect to learn from his independent living workshops and classes? Why was he disappointed in them?

—Rick refers to the “cold, cruel Real World.” How does he think the “real world” is different from the “foster care” world?

—Rick says the foster care system makes people too dependent on it. Do you agree with him? List three ways you think the system makes you too dependent, then list three ways you could become more independent of it.

—Rick stresses the importance of having a plan for being independent once you leave the system. What is your plan for the next year? Below, write down three goals you would like to achieve in the coming year to be better prepared for aging out, and how you will go about achieving them. Example: In the next year I want to save $500; I will do this by saving $10 a week for the next year.

—Rick stresses the importance of having a plan, and also a backup plan. What is your plan when you age out of the system? If that plan doesn’t work, list two backup plans you could follow.

—Looking back, Rick wished he had learned more about saving money, job training, and college in his independent living classes. Think of three things you want to know more about now. List them below, and the steps you can take to find our more about them. Example: “I want to know more about going to college; I can find out more about this by talking with my social worker, the agency’s education coordinator, by going to a free college counseling center, and by talking to my guidance counselor.”

—Housing, education, and jobs are three important areas that you should be learning about before you leave foster care. What do you want to know about each and how could you go about getting practical, hands-on knowledge?

—What do you think is the most important piece of advice that Rick offers and why?