Choosing a life after high school

From the more traditional college route to pursuing humanitarian work around the globe, today’s teens have a virtual smorgasbord of options when making their post-high school plans. So many, in fact, that high school guidance counselors suggest that teens and their families begin exploring post-graduation possibilities as early as the freshman year. Obviously, no one expects teens to settle on a path this soon. However, plenty of lead time lets teens explore their many interests, learn how they might turn these into a future career and begin taking the classes and participating in extra-curriculars that can move them toward future goals.

Post-high school pathways

There are many opportunities—both traditional and non-traditional—that teens can choose from as they consider life after high school. Here’s a sampling:

College. Nowadays, a public or private college education—be it a two-year or four-year institution—is considered almost as essential as a high school education once was. College allows students to expand their horizons and hone their skills. It can also be the ticket to a good job and a comfortable lifestyle

Vocational education. This type of education prepares learners for careers or professions that are traditionally non-academic and directly related to a specific trade or occupation (e.g., auto mechanics, cosmetology, tourism). Often, teens with an interest in vocations can begin their education while still in high school. Coursework often includes time on-the-job—great for hands-on learning and for making professional contacts. Once trained, teens have the option of entering the workforce and earning a living right out of high school.

Military service. For some teens, a stint in the military is a way to serve the country, while learning valuable life and job skills (e.g., engineering, law enforcement, medical care) and helping to pay for a formal college education once military service has ended.

Non-traditional pathways. For other teens, the call to serve mankind can be more powerful than a pull toward formal schooling. Such organizations as the Peace Corps, Americorps and religious service groups offer teens the opportunity to earn a living while immersing in humanitarian work. These opportunities can take place overseas, allowing teens to travel and learn first-hand about the world’s cultures. Apprenticeships are another avenue for teens to learn a trade, art form or craft and gain on-the-job skills while working with a skilled artist, musician, performer or businessperson. 

Web resources

eChoices http://www.eChoices.com/. At eChoices (a subscription service), teens can complete surveys to find out what their interests are and how they relate to the world of work. They’ll also find detailed information on most occupations, including what the typical work day is like, demand for that job in today’s workplace, educational requirements, average starting salaries and much more. 

Occupational Outlook Handbook http://www.bls.gov/oco/ Revised every two years, the Occupational Outlook Handbook describes what employees do on the job, working conditions, the training and education needed, earnings and expected job prospects in a wide range of occupations.

New York State Department of Labor and Career Resources http://www.labor.state.ny.us Learn about working in New York and labor market information. The related Career Zone link http://www.nycareerzone.org/ provides information on different careers in New York State.

Career Info Net www.acinet.org/acinet Find wages and employment trends, occupational requirements, state-by-state labor market conditions, millions of employer contacts nationwide and an extensive career resource library.

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