High school graduation is around the corner for many seniors across the U.S. and college is what many of them are pushed to accept as their next step in life. The Department of Education’s 2013 High School Redesign Initiative presented by former President Barack Obama fiscally and lawfully supports the slowly but surely reshaping of education models and the overall school experience for students. However for thousands everywhere, college attendance comes with a steep student loan debt, an average education, and no job afterwards.
College is what you make it, but so is most your life. Your life becomes a residual of the decisions and choices you make. This article is set to help you understand the many options you have considering life after high school. Take a look at some of these scenarios and see what amazing results can come of your selection.
You were a star student in Spanish class and you’ve just graduated from a small town high school. Although accepted into an accelerated program at a college in the city, the senior class trip did not live up to your standards and you’re interested in a more cultural environment. You’ve always worked during the Summer at the neighborhood mall so working instead of schooling is something you’re open to as well. Eighty-one percent of Gap Year Alumni recommend taking the time away from academics for collegiate success; maybe there is something to delaying your college acceptance and revisiting options abroad or travel for a year.
Choice: Start Planning a Gap Year
You were a talented athlete but average in classroom. Your intellect is leading you to do more than play a sport. You’ve always admired a church mentor that worked in the corporate world and counselors at school mentioned after high school programs that are transitional learning opportunities to get work experience. You want solid work experience while maintaining your athletic skill.
Choice: Check out Year Up, a ‘Career First’ program for graduates or GED recipients
OR: Research Apprenticeships in your local area
So you are the grade school hustler. Since you were young you’ve opened a lemonade stand and an in-home candy store. You sold everything from electronics to papers to full out meals out of your locker or book bag. You’re graduating with good grades but your mind is set on the money and you’ve been on the fence about attending Business School because of loans. Between YouTube University and online podcasts, you are wondering how can you make money and still educate yourself on the essentials.
Choice: Take Online Courses to receive certifications across several subjects
With so many different opportunities to take your life to the next level without the debt, you can truly be self-taught, well-traveled, and fluent in another culture and language before the age of 21 just like an other college student. Whatever your adventure, when going the road less traveled you will learn more about yourself than you could ever imagine. Where will your choice take you?