You just graduated high school. Now what? You can either continue your education and go straight to college or get some work experience first. There is no right answer. One path may work better for you than the other. Below, we provide points you should consider before making your decision.

Working First

You may be tired of tests and essays, and college will only bring more work than high school. You must be prepared for what will come your way if you go to college first. And, that might be the very reason you want to get to work instead. You’ve probably heard the saying, “distance makes the heart grow fonder,” and this can be true for your education as well. Sometimes all it takes is a little break away from classes to value your education as you should.

Going to work right after high school may help you make a better decision about schooling in the future. According to NBC News’ “College Freshmen Face Major Dilemma,” 80% of college-bound students don’t choose a major, and half of those who do declare one eventually change it. If you get a sampling of work experience first, you’ll probably make a surer decision about what you should go to school to be. You may take it more seriously too because you understand what the world of work is all about.

You’ll be able to earn money by working, which will give you a sense of independence and confidence that you can make it on your own. It will also give you life experience and force you to learn how to manage your money responsibly. You’ll have to in order to survive!

So, getting some work experience first sounds good, right? Not so fast. Below, consider the benefits of going to school right after earning your high school diploma.

College First

Going to college straight from high school is the popular decision. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 66.7% of 2017 high school graduates age 16 to 24 were enrolled in colleges or universities in October 2017. But that doesn’t mean it’s the best plan for you.

Statistically, those with a college degree earn more money and are less likely to experience unemployment. The BLS reports a 4.6% unemployment rate for those with a high school diploma, compared to 3.4% with an associate’s degree, 2.5% with a bachelor’s degree and 2.2% with a master’s degree. And median usual weekly earnings tally in at $712 for a high school diploma, compared to $836 with an associate’s degree, $1,173 with a bachelor’s degree and $1,401 with a master’s degree.

If you’re already in a routine of scheduling study time and you have a good system for keeping class notes organized, you may want to power through and get college out of the way. You’ll have to relearn (or at least revisit) those skills when you return to the classroom. And, after a long break, they may not come back as easily. Plus, college will earn you some new soft skills that will be helpful in the workplace, like time management, accepting criticism, collaboration, interpersonal communication, critical thinking and problem-solving.

Something scary about not going to college right away is that you never know what life will throw your way. Will this lead to prolonged procrastination? It might not, but it’s something to consider. Some people just need the little break to recharge, but others will find it hard to go back after time away. You’ll have to decide for yourself. If you find a spouse and have kids, will you still be motivated to continue your education? Life could get in the way.

As you can see, there is no right path. There are pros and cons to each journey. And the decision is ultimately yours. According to Fast Company’s “A Definitive Guide for Making Better (And Better Informed) Decisions,” you should listen to your gut. Your instinct will take your emotions into account in the decision-making process, which may lead to a more satisfying outcome. Additionally, know you’re not fully committed to any decision and you can experiment to see what works best for you. Lastly, think for the long term, but savor the present. Consider how you’ll feel about the decision in 10 minutes, 10 months and 10 years to put it into perspective.

And, whatever you decide, best of luck on your adventure!

Written by Meghan Ford

Original Article Link: https://www.businessadministrationinformation.com/education/should-i-enter-college-or-start-working-after-high-school

1.  What are you interested in?

Math, biology or engineering? The most important factor when choosing a postsecondary education is to find a program that you’re interested in. Pick a program you can see yourself studying and enjoying. The next step is to research to see if the school you are considering has the academic program you’re interested in. Here are a few more questions to get you started:

• What subjects are you interested in?

• What programs relate to those subjects?

• What are the admission requirements?

• Can the program lead to further education, like a master’s degree, law, medical school?

• Can you participate in research during your studies?

• Do you have the opportunity to study abroad?

• What services are available on campus to help you be successful?

2.  Where is the campus located?

This might be the first time that you live away from home, family and friends.

• How far do you want to be from home?

• Is it easy for you to get home by car, public transit, plane or train?

• Would you prefer to live in a larger, more diverse city, or something a bit smaller and more relaxed?

• Or, do you want to live at home while attending school?

3.  How does the campus look and feel?

You’re going to spend a lot of time on campus, so make sure you narrow down what you’re looking for in a postsecondary education.

• Do you want a big school that offers more opportunities for undergraduate research or a wider breadth of courses, or would you prefer something smaller where professors actually know your name?

• Are the students at the school enthusiastic, proud and happy?

• What amenities are offered on campus, or nearby?

4.  What is your learning style?

Based on your experience in high-school, do you find you work better with more one-on-one teaching or are you comfortable with self-directed study?

• Do you prefer hands-on, individualized learning or more theoretical learning?

• Do you want a broad education that can be applied to a variety of situations and careers?

• Would you prefer a narrowed focus that provides specific information needed for a future career path?

5.  Consider the career paths you might want to pursue

It’s difficult to choose a career when you’re still in high-school, but if you focus on what you enjoy doing and combine that with a practical career path it will narrow it down.

If you’re someone who has already decided on a career goal, what kind of postsecondary education will you require to be successful and in demand once you graduate? Will you need a diploma or a bachelor’s degree to be competitive? These are only some of the questions you should consider when deciding on your postsecondary education.

6.  What do you want from your postsecondary education experience?

A large part of the postsecondary education experience is your life on-campus. It can be a difficult transition from high-school and your life outside of class will be important to your success and happiness.

• Do you want to live on campus or share an off-campus house or apartment with friends?

• What kind of events can you attend on campus?

• Does the campus offer clubs or groups where you can socialize, make friends with common interests, or help with studies?

• Can you volunteer within the community?

• Are there cool places to eat or shop within the community?

• What sports teams can you join?

7.  Understand what it will cost

Have you budgeted to cover your costs? Planning to pursue a postsecondary education is a big decision and one of the most significant investments you will make and should be treated as such. Here are some things to think about:

• How much is tuition?

• What else do you need to pay for besides tuition, i.e. textbooks, residence, bus pass, parking pass, etc.?

• How much scholarship or bursary money is available?

• Are there opportunities to work part-time on campus?

7 Things You Need to Fill Out the FAFSA Form

1. Your account username and password (FSA ID)

2. Your Social Security number

3. Your Driver's License number

4. Your most recent federal income tax return

5. Records of your untaxed income

6. Records of financial assets

7. List of up to 10 schools you are interested in attending

Click here to see an image that outlines the process.

Click the links below to review as you reach adulthood.

• Understanding Age of Majority 

• A Legal Survival Guide for When you Turn 18 

• SSI Resources