Post-Secondary Options
Two/Four Year Colleges
College is an academic post-secondary institution that offers associate degrees and bachelor degrees in two and four-year programs, respectively. Students may pursue areas of study in a large variety of fields relating to future career interests. While one may not know which career they wish to pursue, they may attend college undecided with the opportunity to explore different academic subject matters. Some students may begin their post-secondary education at a two-year community college then transfer to a four-year college for their remaining two years. Just as colleges are looking for a right fit in an application, students need to research and visit multiple schools to find the right fit for them.
Naviance
Collegeboard
Technical/Vocational Schools
Technical and vocational schools are educational institutions that offer occupational programs intended to prepare students for immediate employment in a skilled trade. The length of each program varies, but most award certificates in that craft upon completion. Trade schools offer specialized training in specific work fields such as cosmetology, computer technology, medical or dental technology, culinary arts, or mechanical engineering.
Sample vocational schools:
-Lincoln Tech
-Lincoln College of New England
-Lincoln Culinary Institute
Military
There are 5 different branches in the armed forces.
1) Army/National Guard
2) Marines
3) Air Force
4) Navy
5) Coast Guard
There are lots of career opportunities within each branch. It is essential to do plenty of research to not only find the best fit branch, but the best career path for you as well. Students and parents should discuss the options with their school counselor as well as a recruiter.
All students 16 years and older are welcome to take the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) that is not only a military entrance requirement, but a helpful resource for career exploration. Students may take the ASVAB here at school when offered, or at a recruitment center.
There are three main paths to take to join the military:
1) Direct Enlistment
2) Attend a military academy (i.e. West Point Army Academy, Coast Guard Academy, Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, Merchant Marine Academy)
3) Join an ROTC Program (Reserve Officers Training Corps): This pathway allows you to attend college while receiving military training. Upon graduation, you will be an Officer and have approximately four years of duty.
Gap Year
A gap year is an interim year for students who wish to participate in various national and international programs involving internships, volunteer work, academic classes, career exploration, and adventure.