Finishing high school is very exciting. Personally, I hated going to school every day and could not wait to be done with it. However, you still need to figure out what to do after you graduate high school. Most people go to college, but is that the right choice for everyone? What are the other options besides going to college? High schoolers are still teenagers, and it is completely normal to not know what you want to do at this stage of your life.
In this article, we go through the various options you can pursue. Some of the most popular options include community college, getting a job, taking a gap year, and starting a business. However, every option has its own pros and cons, and it is important for you to evaluate for yourself.
Go to College
When I was in high school, it felt like there was an expectation that you would go to college. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, about 62% of U.S. high school graduates enroll in college. College can be a great way to continue your education and prepare for a future career. It’s also a place where many people make lifelong friends and mature into adulthood.
Part of the reason it is so commonly suggested for high schoolers is because college graduates, on average, earn $1.2M more in their career than those who do not attend college.Many careers require a college degree, and it is also a requirement for further education such as medical school or law school. However, college can be expensive and take a long time to complete. While college has many benefits, it’s not the best fit for everyone. It’s important to think about your goals, interests, and financial situation before deciding if going to college right after high school is right for you.
Gap Year
Taking a gap year means taking a year-long break before committing to the next phase in their life. A gap year can give you the time to do something you’ve always wanted such as travel, hobbies, or volunteer work. It can be a chance to learn more about yourself, gain life experience, and take a break from school after years of studying. It gives you much needed time to reflect and really think about what the best move is for you.
After your gap year, many students go on to college feeling more prepared and focused. You might feel like you’re falling behind your classmates, or it may be hard to get back into school mode. However, it can save you from making the wrong academic or career decision.
Get a Job and Start Working
After high school, it is completely natural to want to get into the workforce and start making money! There are plenty of jobs that do not require a college degree that you could apply for. You can find a job by searching online, asking friends and family, visiting local businesses, or using job websites. Having a good resume, dressing nicely for interviews, and being reliable can help you get hired.
Getting a job right after high school has some benefits. You can start earning money right away, gain real-world experience, and learn new skills. You’re not making a big commitment by getting a job because you can always switch jobs if you find that it is not right for you. It is great to explore and check out the options that are available to you. The downside is that many of these entry level jobs won’t pay as much as jobs that require a college degree, and might offer less room to grow. Regardless, getting a job is a great way to get income, start saving up, and accomplishing other goals such as buying a car, or putting a downpayment towards a house.
Community College
Community college is a great option that is often overlooked. If you want to continue your education but are intimidated by the cost of college, this could be the right solution for you. Community colleges usually cost less than four-year universities, and you also save money by commuting instead of living in a campus dorm.
You can earn an associate degree, take classes to prepare for a specific job, or complete general education courses before transferring to a four-year college. However, it’s important to check that the credits will transfer before you choose your classes.
Trade School
If you’re not interested in going to college but still want to find a high paying job, then trade school could be an excellent path. Trade schools, also called vocational or technical schools, offer programs for careers like electrician, plumber, welder, mechanic, dental assistant, cosmetologist, and more. These schools focus on practical skills, so students spend more time doing and less time on general education classes.
Most trade school programs can be completed in 6 months to 2 years, depending on the career path. This means you can start working and earning money much sooner than if you go to a four-year college. Additionally, many trade schools include an apprenticeship that pays you, which means you earn money while learning. On the flip side, the training is very specific, so if you change your mind about your career later, it might be harder to switch paths. Some trades also involve physical labor, which isn’t for everyone. This could also be a great way to start your own business some day in the trade that you learn.
Start a Business
Many students don’t see themselves working a traditional job and envision themselves as entrepreneurs. For these people, starting a business could be a great option. You don’t even need to finish high school before you start your own business. There are plenty of businesses out there that teens can start with very little investment. If you’re creative, hard-working, and willing to take some risks, starting a business could be the move for you
There are many types of businesses you can start as a young adult. Some popular options include online shops, lawn care services, tutoring, pet sitting, cleaning services, social media management, or making and selling handmade products.. Many young entrepreneurs start small and grow over time. Starting and owning a business is also a great learning experience that teaches you about management, customer relations, sales, and much more.
Join the Military
Last year in the United States, 146,000 enrolled in the military, and a lot of that recruitment comes from high school students. One of the biggest benefits is that you get paid while receiving training, housing, and health care. You also learn discipline, leadership, and teamwork. Many people who join the military feel proud to serve their country and enjoy the chance to travel and see new places.
People that I know who joined the military say that a big benefit is that the military can help pay for college. Programs like the GI Bill and tuition assistance cover most or all of your school costs if you decide to go to college later. However, you also need to take into consideration the downsides. Military life can be challenging, with strict rules and the possibility of being away from home for long periods. To join, you must meet certain requirements like being at least 17 years old, passing a physical exam, and taking the ASVAB test.