There are many opportunities after graduation
Explore and learn what's best for you
Choosing your path
There is no one “right” path after high school, everyone’s journey is different. Give yourself time to explore your options and learn what each path might look like. Consider the lifestyle it may lead to, the opportunities it can open, and the financial impact. Connecting with people who have already taken these paths can help you better understand what to expect and decide which direction feels right for your goals and interests.
Community College (2-Year)
Community college is a flexible, lower-cost way to quickly earn an associate's degree. It’s a great option for gaining career skills, earning credits, and exploring different majors. It works well if you want to live at home, balance work, family, or school responsibilities, or even prepare you for a 4-year college.
Benefits:
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Very affordable with financial aid and free-tuition options in many states
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Easier admissions because grades and test scores are often not a barrier
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Flexible schedules, including part-time, night, weekend, and online classes
College / University (4-Year)
A 4-year university or college is the traditional path many students choose after high school to earn a bachelor’s degree. It offers a full college experience with academics, campus life, and personal growth opportunities. It’s a great option if you want to study a subject in depth, build strong professional networks, and gain the education and experiences that prepare you for long-term career success.
Benefits:
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Campus life and experiences like student organizations, athletics, events, and residential living
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Time to explore and decide your major, with the ability to switch majors at many schools
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Strong career preparation through internships, networking, and career services
Trade / Technical Programs
Trade and technical programs provide hands-on training that prepares students for specific careers in skilled and in-demand industries. These programs focus on practical job skills rather than traditional academic coursework and are commonly offered through vocational schools, technical institutes, and some community colleges. This pathway is a strong option if you enjoy hands-on learning and want to prepare for careers in fields like construction, automotive technology, cosmetology, healthcare support, culinary arts, and more.
Benefits:
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Hands-on career training that prepares you directly for skilled, in-demand jobs
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Shorter program length compared to traditional college, allowing faster entry into the workforce
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Industry certifications and licenses that help you qualify for specialized careers
Career Certificates
Career certificates are short-term training programs that help you build specific job skills without enrolling in a traditional college degree. Many can be completed in a few weeks to a few months and are designed to prepare you directly for entry-level roles across industries like healthcare, technology, business, and public service. This path is a great option if you want to start working immediately after High School, build practical skills, explore different career interests, or gain experience before deciding whether to pursue college later.
Benefits:
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Fast entry into the workforce because many programs can be completed in weeks or months
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Lower cost than traditional college, with many free or low-cost online options
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Certificates are flexible and stackable, so you can quickly gain skills, earn income, and pursue college later if you decide
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are a career-focused pathway designed for students who want to enter a specific field while gaining real work experience. They allow you to earn money while learning hands-on job skills by working alongside experienced professionals. This path combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction, helping you build practical skills while working toward a long-term career. Apprenticeships are a great option if you enjoy learning by doing, and are interested in skilled trades, technology, healthcare, or other in-demand industries.
Benefits:
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Earn money while learning through paid training while building career skills
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Lower education costs compared to traditional college pathways
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Clear career pathway with many apprenticeships leading to full-time jobs
Military Training and Service
Military service is a pathway that allows you to serve your country while gaining career training, education benefits, and professional experience. The military provides structured training in a wide variety of career fields including healthcare, technology, aviation, engineering, logistics, and public service. This path can help you develop leadership skills, discipline, and technical training while providing financial and educational support that can help you pursue college or civilian careers in the future.
Benefits:
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Earn education benefits through programs like the GI Bill that can help pay for college or training after service
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Career training and certifications in fields like healthcare, technology, engineering, and skilled trades
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Stable income and benefits including housing support, healthcare, and job security
Gap Year Programs
Gap year programs allow students to take intentional time to gain experience, explore interests, and build skills before pursuing college, career training, or entering the workforce. Many gap year opportunities focus on service, travel, internships, volunteering, or career exploration. This path can help you gain clarity about your goals, build independence, and strengthen your resume or college applications through real-world experience.
Benefits:
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Gain real-world experience through service, internships, travel, or career exploration
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Build personal and professional skills like independence, leadership, and time management
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Explore interests and career goals before committing to college or career training