Life After High School: 6 Options for What Comes Next

Explore your post-graduation options, from college to trade schools and internships, to help you navigate your future confidently.
Find Your Program

Life After High School: 6 Options for What Comes Next

Explore your post-graduation options, from college to trade schools and internships, to help you navigate your future confidently.
Find Your Program
Career Prep Blog

Life After High School: 6 Options for What Comes Next

  • November 26, 2024
  • Admin

As graduation approaches, many students find themselves standing at a crossroads, unsure of what they should do next. Whether you’re contemplating further education, diving straight into the workforce, or exploring alternative paths, the uncertainty can feel overwhelming.

You’re not alone in this journey! Life after high school is a pivotal time for self-discovery and decision-making. This blog will guide you through various options, from college and trade schools to internships and military service, helping you envision a future that aligns with your passions and goals. Let’s explore the possibilities together and uncover what comes next on your journey!

 

a student looking concerned

How Career Prep High School Supports Post-Graduation Plans

Career Prep High School is dedicated to helping students get the best possible jobs and opportunities they can once they graduate. With a focus on individualized planning, students work closely with counselors and mentors to identify their strengths, interests, and goals, to ensure they are well-prepared for their next steps.

The school emphasizes vocational training by providing students with hands-on experiences that align with various career fields, from healthcare to technology. Flexible learning options allow students to earn their diplomas while simultaneously gaining practical skills and knowledge relevant to their desired careers.

This approach not only facilitates academic success but also builds confidence and readiness for life after high school, empowering students to make informed decisions about their futures. By providing a supportive environment, Career Prep High School equips students with the tools they need to thrive.

If you’re a high school student who needs a more individualized approach to schooling, contact us to speak with someone who can help you navigate the enrollment process by calling (888) 995-7143.

Now, let’s get into different options for life after high school!

1. Traditional College or University

Attending a 2-year community college or 4-year university is a common path for students seeking higher education. Community colleges offer associate degrees and transfer pathways to universities, while 4-year institutions provide bachelor’s degrees, laying the foundation for careers requiring advanced knowledge. Beyond academics, students benefit from networking opportunities, internships, and extracurricular activities that build connections and develop skills.

However, college also comes with challenges. Tuition, housing, and textbooks can add up, leaving many students concerned about financial burdens. Balancing academic pressures with part-time jobs, social life, and personal responsibilities can also be overwhelming.

Fortunately, there are many financial aid options to ease the burden. Students can apply for federal grants, scholarships, and student loans, while some schools offer work-study programs to help them cover expenses. Choosing the right institution and planning finances carefully can help students make the most of their college experience while preparing for the workforce.

2. Trade Schools and Vocational Training

Trade schools focus on providing hands-on training and certifications for specialized careers, such as electricians, medical assistants, mechanics, and HVAC technicians. These programs are designed to equip students with practical skills directly applicable to their chosen industry, often involving internships or apprenticeships for real-world experience.

We offer vocational training for future those aspiring to work in healthcare, construction, hospitality, and others. With our focus on preparing students for the workforce we do an incredible job of helping students land great jobs. (If we can be so bold.) Learn more here.

One of the key benefits of trade schools is their shorter completion time—many programs can be completed in six months to two years, compared to the four years typically required for a bachelor's degree. This allows students to enter the workforce quickly and begin earning income sooner.

There is also a growing demand for skilled trades, driven by labor shortages and the need to replace retiring workers. Fields like healthcare, construction, and technology are experiencing rapid growth, providing ample job opportunities and competitive salaries for those with the right certifications. Many trade schools also have partnerships with employers, increasing the likelihood of job placement after graduation.

a student working in a trade like construction or healthcare

3. Workforce Entry

For many students, starting a career right after high school is a practical and appealing option. Skipping college allows them to gain immediate work experience and begin earning income. Fields such as retail, manufacturing, hospitality, and entry-level business positions offer accessible opportunities for high school graduates. These roles provide the chance to develop essential workplace skills, such as teamwork, communication, and time management, which are valuable across industries.

Entering the workforce also helps students build transferable skills—skills that can be applied to future jobs or careers. For example, a retail associate might develop customer service expertise, while a manufacturing worker could gain experience with technical equipment. Many companies also offer advancement opportunities or on-the-job training, allowing employees to move into higher-paying roles without formal college degrees.

By starting their careers early, students can build a strong professional foundation, gain independence, and explore different career paths that align with their long-term goals.

4. Apprenticeships and Internships

Apprenticeships offer a unique pathway for students to gain on-the-job training while earning a paycheck. These programs combine practical work experience with classroom instruction, allowing individuals to learn essential skills in fields like plumbing, electrical work, and healthcare. One of the significant advantages of apprenticeships is that many offer college credit or certifications upon completion, enhancing a graduate's qualifications and employability.

Internships, on the other hand, provide valuable experience and help students make industry connections. These temporary positions often expose individuals to the workings of a specific field, allowing them to develop relevant skills and network with professionals. While internships may be unpaid or offer a stipend, they frequently lead to full-time job offers upon graduation, which makes them a strategic step for students entering the job market. By engaging in either option, students can effectively bridge the gap between education and employment to position themselves for future success.

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5. Military Service

Enlisting in the military is a viable option for students interested in service, discipline, and personal growth. The military offers a structured environment where individuals can develop leadership skills, teamwork, and resilience—qualities that are highly valued in both military and civilian careers.

One significant benefit of military service is the extensive training provided, which can translate into valuable skills applicable in various professions. Additionally, many branches of the military offer financial assistance for education, including programs like the GI Bill, which can cover tuition for college or vocational training after service. This support can help veterans further their education and improve job prospects.

Choosing military service can be a transformative experience by offering unique opportunities for career advancement and personal development, which makes it an excellent option for those seeking a purposeful post-high school path.

6. Gap Year or Volunteering

Taking a gap year can be an enriching experience for students looking to travel, volunteer, or explore personal interests before committing to further education or a career. This time off can provide invaluable opportunities for self-discovery, skill development, and cultural immersion. Programs like AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps offer structured volunteering experiences that allow participants to serve communities while gaining practical skills and insights into different ways of life.

Engaging in meaningful service can foster a sense of purpose and clarity about future goals, helping individuals determine their career paths more confidently. A gap year can also enhance resumes, as it demonstrates initiative, adaptability, and a commitment to personal growth. Ultimately, this period of exploration can lead to greater focus and direction, making students more prepared for their next steps in education or employment.