Haven't signed into your Scholastic account before?
Teachers, not yet a subscriber?
Subscribers receive access to the website and print magazine.
You are being redirecting to Scholastic's authentication page...
Announcements & Tutorials
New: Student View Preview
How Students and Families Can Log In
1 min.
Setting Up Student View
Sharing Articles with Your Students
2 min.
Interactive Activities
5 min.
Sharing Videos with Students
Using Choices with Educational Apps
Join Our Facebook Group!
Subscriber Only Resources
Access this article and hundreds more like it with a subscription to Choices magazine.
Article Options
Presentation View
Follow the Leader
Singer Ed Sheeran may seem like he has a “Perfect” life, but he’s struggled with a childhood stutter, bullying, and the pressures of fame. Follow his journey from young rap fan to role model.
1. The Beginning
Born in England in 1991, Sheeran is introduced to music by his father, who takes him to rock concerts. His father also gives him an album by rapper Eminem.
2. Getting Noticed
Sheeran learns to play the guitar and starts writing songs. His YouTube videos and self-produced albums lead to collaborations with Taylor Swift and One Direction.
3. Facing Setbacks
In 2015, Sheeran announces he’s taking a yearlong break from social media, saying, “I needed to get away.” He continues to take regular breaks from Instagram and Twitter.
4. Amplifying His Message
Now a megastar, the singer sends a message of self-acceptance to his fans, saying, “The only person you can succeed at being is yourself.”
1. Find Your Passion: “I picked music, worked hard, and it worked.”
2. Stay Positive: “Be nice to everyone, and always smile.”
3. Embrace Your Quirks: “Being weird is a wonderful thing.”
verb:
emphasized
Question: In what other ways could the college search and application process be more difficult if you’re the first in your family to go to college?
Question: Why can it be important to ask for help when trying to reach your goals?
Question: What are some actions you could take to make sure you don’t lose sight of future goals?
FYI: In the 2011-2012 academic year, 34% of undergrads were the first in their families to go to college.
FYI: Students who go to technical schools—also called vocational schools—take classes and complete training that prepares them for a specific job, such as to be an automotive mechanic, chef, or cosmetologist.
adverb:
seemingly incapable of tiring
noun:
continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failure, or opposition
to change direction or course
to a high degree
FYI: First-generation college students take out student loans in higher amounts than students who have parents that went to college. They also take out student loans more often.