A plan on one page

A plan written down is much more convincing than a hope spoken out loud. Put it on one page: what you want to do, why it suits you, the steps for the next 12 to 24 months, the money it needs, the income you expect and when, and the evidence you already have, such as a course finished, a project built or an internship offer.

Use plain words and short lines. Bring a printed copy or a clear phone note, because parents often want to read it again later or show a relative.