Pursuing a four year college degree will not only boost your earning potential and marketability in your future career, it will also provide you a variety skills and opportunities both inside and outside the classroom.  Some careers do require a bachelors or more advanced degree, but the college experience also provides you to explore your passions in depth, create personal and professional networks, and build your interpersonal and soft skills.

There are hundreds of colleges and universities, and even if you just narrow down your school search to state schools, the differences between campuses, their major offerings, and approaches to education vary significantly.  

Be sure to do your research to find the best fit for you. Cost also plays a huge factor in the college decision, so be sure to begin actively applying for scholarships!

Attending a technical college is an excellent way to gain skills and advance your future plans.  Earning an associates degree can increase your earning potential, and/or assist you in meeting course requirements if you choose to transfer to a four year college or university. 

Technical colleges or trade schools offer programs focused on particular fields, and allow students to build a skill set through practical, hands-on training that culminates in certification.  Programs can range from HVAC to welding to automotive repair and more.

In addition to serving your country, pursuing military service following high school can be a great choice for some students. Military service provides hands-on training and skill development, financial stability, opportunity to travel and potential funding for higher education. Service can be full-time through enlistment, participation via a ROTC program at college, or serving in the National Guard or Reserves.

Apprenticeship. Internship. Job.

Entering the workforce will give you real world experience while building on skills to make you successful. You may choose to enter an apprenticeship or internship to gain insight into a career, select a job to confirm your interests in the field before pursuing further education or training in that field, or earn a living while still exploring what your future holds.

A gap year is not a year off, but rather “a semester or year of experiential learning, typically taken after high school and prior to career or post-secondary education, in order to deepen one’s practical, professional, and personal awareness.” (Gap Year Association).  

Gap years should be taken intentionally and with a plan for what you will be doing during the time to expand your horizons, prepare for the following year and move you toward your goals.