About This Lesson
As a senior in high school, it can be very stressful to think about the future and plans. High school graduation is a huge transition. Upon graduating, mandatory learning comes to an end. It's up to you to figure out how you want to build on it. With so many options after graduating, choosing one can be complicated. If you're a senior in high school, here are a few post-graduation options.
Post-Secondary School
Post-secondary school includes college and non-trade training. In comparison, college takes longer and has much more intensive learning than a non-trade study. A few fields attained through non-trade training are a corrections officer, dental assistant, legal assistant, and office assistant. If you don't think you have enough money for college, non-trade training may be a better route.
Military
Careers in the National Guard, Air Force, and Army are available to anyone 18 and older. If you need financial help attending a university, ROTC (Registered Officer Training Program) pays your tuition in exchange for service. Military life is suited for people who thrive in a disciplined environment. The pathway may also be suitable for those who seek adventure and love helping others. Whether you're sent on a peacekeeping mission or deployed in a war-zone, a military career presents risks--but reaps excellent benefits. Joining the military can also be a pathway to learn unique skills like scuba diving, skydiving, target shooting, and piloting. This route isn't easy, and it's not for the faint of heart, but the discipline and pride you inherit are priceless.
The Workforce
Another viable option after graduation is joining the workforce. Whether you need money for further schooling or are unsure of what to do, the workforce can work well for you. You may also have a job opportunity with growth opportunities that could lead to a great career. When searching for a job, evaluate whether the position is a job or career. Settling for a job instead of a career can lead you down a road of dullness and un-fulfillment. Even though a job can help pay school bills, it probably won't be sufficient in your adult years.
Public Service
If you are great at working through stress and possess deep care for people, careers falling under this category might be suited for you. Here is a list of common public service careers: politicians, government employees, social workers, firefighters, paramedics, Police officers, and ambulance attendants. These careers often require a lot of mental, physical, and emotional strength. For example, a police officer or firefighter needs the physical and emotional strength to detain criminals and put out fires while risking their lives.
Travel Abroad
Graduation can be a great time to get your head out of the textbooks and see the world for yourself. Traveling abroad can be valuable for people still figuring out their life goals. Exploring this option requires a certain amount of money saved. If you feel like this could benefit your life, save up some money in your final year of high school. Another way you can see the world is by becoming a CDL driver. You may be wondering, "What is a cdl driver?" Tractor-trailers and flatbeds are two vehicles associated with CDL driving.
Become an Online Entrepreneur
The internet contains countless possibilities and money-making opportunities for those willing to put in the time. You may want to consider starting an eBay empire or a store on Shopify. If you have an affinity for arts and crafts, you could even market your creations on Etsy. Ways to gain attention for your products include starting a blog, Youtube channel, and monetizing your ads.
Being worried about the future is common for seniors in high school. You may not know where your life is headed or what you want to pursue. Thinking about these options may help you decide what's next in your life.
