Congratulations on graduating high school! You’ve worked hard to get to this point, and now you’re faced with a world of possibilities. What can you do after high school? The options are endless, but don’t worry – we’re here to help you navigate your next steps.
College or university is a popular choice for high school graduates who want to continue their education. There are thousands of colleges and universities in the United States, so you’re sure to find one that’s a good fit for you. College can be a great way to prepare for a career, learn new skills, and meet new people.
Benefits of College:
- Increased earning potential: College graduates earn significantly more money than those with only a high school diploma. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for workers with a bachelor’s degree is $65,660, while the median annual salary for workers with only a high school diploma is $48,520.
- Better job opportunities: College graduates are more likely to be employed in high-paying, high-skilled jobs. They also have more opportunities for promotion and advancement.
- Personal growth: College can be a time of great personal growth. You’ll learn new things, meet new people, and develop new skills. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore your interests and passions.
Tips for Choosing a College:
- Visit different colleges: Get a feel for each campus and see which one feels like the right fit for you.
- Talk to current students: Ask them about their experiences and what they like and dislike about their college.
- Research different programs: Make sure the college you choose offers the program you’re interested in.
- Consider the cost: College can be expensive, so it’s important to factor in the cost of tuition, fees, and living expenses.
Trade school is a great option for high school graduates who want to learn a specific trade. There are many different trade schools available, each offering a variety of programs. Trade school can be a great way to get the skills you need to start a career in a high-demand field.
Benefits of Trade School:
- High earning potential: Trade school graduates can earn good money. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for construction and extraction workers is $56,390, while the median annual salary for installation, maintenance, and repair workers is $53,490.
- Job security: Trade school graduates are in high demand. There are always jobs available for skilled workers.
- Hands-on learning: Trade school provides hands-on learning, which is a great way to learn a trade. You’ll get the opportunity to work with real tools and equipment, and you’ll be able to apply what you learn in the classroom to real-world situations.
Tips for Choosing a Trade School:
- Research different trade schools: Make sure the trade school you choose is accredited and offers the program you’re interested in.
- Talk to current students: Ask them about their experiences and what they like and dislike about their trade school.
- Visit the trade school: Get a feel for the campus and see if it’s a good fit for you.
- Consider the cost: Trade school can be expensive, so it’s important to factor in the cost of tuition, fees, and living expenses.
The military is a great option for high school graduates who want to serve their country and gain valuable skills. There are many different branches of the military, each with its own unique opportunities. The military can be a great way to get an education, learn new skills, and travel the world.
Benefits of the Military:
- Education: The military offers a variety of educational opportunities, including tuition assistance and the GI Bill.
- Skills training: The military provides training in a variety of skills, including leadership, teamwork, and technical skills.
- Travel: The military offers the opportunity to travel the world. You may be stationed in different countries and have the chance to experience different cultures.
- Benefits: The military offers a variety of benefits, including health insurance, dental insurance, and a retirement plan.
Tips for Joining the Military:
- Research different branches of the military: Each branch of the military has its own unique opportunities and requirements.
- Talk to a recruiter: A recruiter can answer your questions and help you decide if the military is right for you.
- Get in shape: The military has physical fitness standards that you must meet in order to join.
- Prepare for the ASVAB: The ASVAB is a test that you must take in order to join the military. It measures your aptitude for different types of jobs.
An apprenticeship is a great way to learn a trade while earning a salary. Apprenticeships are typically offered by unions and employers. They usually last for several years, and you’ll learn on the job under the supervision of a skilled worker.
Benefits of an Apprenticeship:
- Earn while you learn: Apprenticeships allow you to earn a salary while you learn a trade.
- Hands-on learning: Apprenticeships provide hands-on learning, which is a great way to learn a trade. You’ll get the opportunity to work with real tools and equipment, and you’ll be able to apply what you learn in the classroom to real-world situations.
- Job security: Apprenticeships typically lead to a job with the employer who sponsored the apprenticeship.
Tips for Finding an Apprenticeship:
- Research different apprenticeships: There are many different apprenticeships available, so it’s important to research and find one that’s a good fit for you.
- Talk to unions: Unions often offer apprenticeships. Contact unions in your area to see if they have any apprenticeship programs available.
- Contact employers: Some employers offer apprenticeships. Contact employers in your area to see if they have any apprenticeship programs available.
Starting a business is a great option for high school graduates who want to be their own boss and have the potential to earn a lot of money. There are many different types of businesses you can start, so you’re sure to find one that’s a good fit for your skills and interests.
Benefits of Starting a Business:
- Be your own boss: When you start a business, you’re your own boss. You set your own hours and make your own decisions.
- Unlimited earning potential: The sky’s the limit when it comes to how much money you can earn from your business.
- Flexibility: You can set your own hours and work from wherever you want.
- Personal satisfaction: Starting your own business can be a very rewarding experience. You’ll get the satisfaction of knowing