There are a lot of things to think about when it comes to what you want to do after high school. It can be a big decision, and there’s a lot riding on it. You want to make sure you’re making the best choice for yourself, so it’s important to hear out all of your options before making a final decision. Here are some things you should keep in mind as you make this important decision.
Where To Next?
This must run through your mind as soon as you finish high school, or rather before you graduate. One of the most valuable pieces of advice for students going to uni is to explore their options by going to summer school and university open days.
This gives you the opportunity to gain a taste of tertiary-level study without committing to a degree, while university open days and campus tours give you the chance to explore the different campuses and facilities available, as well as meet with academic staff who work in various fields.
For example, you can attend an open day at a university where you might be interested in studying, and speak to current students and academics about their experiences. You don’t even have to sign up for a course on the day, so it’s worth taking some time out of your schedule to see what’s on offer.
What Are Your Interests?
Summer before college is the right time to find what you’re passionate about. Take a look at interests you have developed over the years and try to identify what type of career might be best suited for those interests. What kind of work do you find interesting? Are there any fields that your friends or family are in that spark your curiosity? Make a list of potential careers, explore opportunities within them, and consider if they could work as a long-term choice
It is also important to think about how particular interests can influence your study plans. For example, if you want to pursue a degree in engineering, it would help to take math and science classes in high school so that you have the necessary knowledge for college courses. Taking an introductory course in the field can also be beneficial, as it will allow you to determine if the interests you have in the subject align with your expectations.
Think About Career Goals
Everyone has different career goals that they want to achieve, but there are some common ones you should have on their list. These are the following:
• Financial stability and security
• Personal growth and development
• Professional advancement
• Work-life balance
• Making a positive impact
• Health and wellness
• Building and maintaining relationships
• Personal fulfillment
These personal goals will help you decide what to do after high school. You should make a list of the career goals you have and start thinking about how you can reach them. Consider your interests, skills, experience, and education when thinking about your career goals. It’s important to be clear about where you want to go and how you plan on getting there.
Your Budget
What you can afford is another essential factor to consider when picking your summer activities. You will need to consider the costs associated with the options you are considering, and decide which is the most realistic and affordable for you. Will the option require a student loan? Are there any grants or scholarships that could help to cover tuition fees? Is the location of the institution close enough to your home that you won’t incur huge transport costs?
It is important to think ahead and plan carefully when it comes to your post-graduation plans. Once you have identified the various options available, weigh up the pros and cons of each in terms of cost versus quality, before committing yourself. It’s also important to note that there are online education options that are helpful and cost less
Options
Always assess all the possibilities you have for a summer education before heading out. There are many options available to individuals after high school but before college, and researching these can help you make an informed decision about what path is best for you.
Guidance counselors and school advisors are often a wealth of information about different options, such as community college, trade school, or gap year programs. You should also visit many websites and databases that provide information about different education and career paths. For example, the Department of Labor’s CareerOneStop website allows users to search for careers based on their interests and skills.
Additionally, getting practical experience in a field you are interested in can be a great way to explore different options and see what type of work is a good fit for you. You could also talk to people in the field of your interest and ask about their career paths, what they like and dislike about their jobs, and what advice they have for someone considering a similar career.
Do Research
Proper and thorough research is essential before deciding what to do after high school. Research can take many forms, from reading up on potential job opportunities to doing interviews with professionals in the field of your interest. Finding out as much information as you can about different career paths and post-secondary education will help you make an informed decision.
It might also be helpful to speak with people who have gone down a similar path and get their insight on how they made their decision. Ask questions about what they liked or disliked, the challenges they faced, and any advice they’d give to someone in your shoes.
Listen To Your Gut
More often than not, it’s also smart to listen to your gut when it comes to deciding what to do after high school. Your intuition can be a great source of guidance in a big decision like this.
You might just know deep down what kind of degree program or job you want, or at least have an idea that’s worth exploring further. Before you jump into anything too quickly, take some time to consider what feels right and make sure it’s something you’d genuinely enjoy doing rather than something that looks good on paper or is expected of you.
Once high school is done, it’s time to find your way into adult life the best way possible, so make sure to see where to go between it and college. Consider your personal interests and what your career goals might be. Make sure your wishes fit the budget and explore your options. Do lots of research on your own and make sure to listen to your gut from time to time!
