The transition from high school to the next phase of life is a pivotal moment for students, and the fear of making a wrong decision is almost palpable.
The traditional narrative after high school is attending college for four years. But young adults should explore their options more deeply, consider their interests and goals, and choose the path that aligns best with their unique aspirations.
Many students don’t realize that it is completely fine to wonder about which path to take after high school. While a four-year college is a great option for many students, there are a few alternative options.
Trade school is one of the more popular and safe options for students. Trade schools provide job-focused training and can lead to a variety of careers, such as nursing, photography, construction, and mechanics.
A lot of the time, students are forced out of a college option because of the amount of money it costs to attend. But with trade school, it is much more cost-effective.
To compare, the average annual cost of college tuition is nearly $36,500, according to Bankrate, a financial planning website. On the other hand, students who attend trade school only spend an average of $33,000 for their entire education.
Trade school students also enter the job market much sooner than students attending a four-year college.
Trade school education only lasts between several weeks to two years, according to Bankrate. With more opportunities to earn money and experience, trade school students have a leg up on their college student peers.
Another college alternative for adventurous students is to take a gap year and travel abroad.
Traveling abroad can provide a new sense of freedom and refresh students’ minds. In a new environment, students can develop a unique skill set, from learning Spanish in Argentina to veterinary experience in Thailand.
This option also forces students to step outside their comfort zone and view the world from a new perspective. They’re exposed to new cultures, and their daily lives may completely differ from at home. Students can grow to be more versatile and adaptable in this time, and that can prepare them for higher education.
Some students may also be interested in joining the military. Specific branches include the Navy, Marines, Army, and Air Force. Though it seems intense, the positives far outweigh the negatives. Those who struggled to find a purpose in high school may find that the military provides a sense of being a part of something bigger than themselves.
The military can also provide money toward college tuition by offering scholarships to eligible students and paying for various expenses. This can help eliminate a major chunk of students’ financial stress.
Like with trade school, taking a gap year and enlisting in the military also teaches life skills that can’t always be learned in college. Some of these skills include discipline, leadership, reliability, and teamwork.
College undoubtedly remains a valuable path to success after high school. But alternatives can equally prepare students for their future.
Embracing these paths can also lead to fulfilling careers, reinforcing the idea that success is not limited to a single educational journey.
