Trade or technical schools prepare students for a specific job by teaching specific skills you need for that job. These schools are perfect for people who want to learn about one thing like plumbing, cutting hair, cleaning teeth,  or construction.

You will get trained for a job that is in demand. 

These technical schools usually have small class sizes and cost less money.

Learn more here.

You could also go to a community college to earn your associate's degree. This usually takes about 2 years to complete. You may take classes that train you for a specific job or you may take classes like reading.

Community college costs less than going to a 4-year school and offers lots of different classes.

If you get your associate's degree you could get a job like a website programmer, ultrasounds technician, or chef.

After you graduate, you may get a job that requires a uniform. Learn more about why you would wear a uniform here.

Another option after high school is going into the military. The military is a special group designed to serve and protect the United States.

The branches of the military include the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. 

Joining the military has lots of benefits like getting a paycheck, traveling around the world, and getting continued training. 

You may earn medals for your hard work in the military. Learn more about the medal of honor here.

At a four-year college or university, you can earn your bachelor's degree. This will take you about 4 years. 

If you keep studying you can get your master's or doctorate degree. Getting a bachelor's degree from a university is what most people mean when they talk about "going to college."

You can study many things in college like how to be a teacher, an architect, a pilot, or a designer. 

If you work hard in middle and high school you can get a scholarship to go to a university. There are many different types of scholarships available. You may get one for your grades and academics or even for athletics. 

Learn more about where you would live if you went to college here.

You may be able to find a job that doesn't require extra training because you will learn new skills on the job. These jobs may include being a waitress or waiter, lawn care, or working as a retail clerk in a store.

You can learn more here.

Learn more about different jobs in different career clusters here.