Work

Going Straight to Work After High School

Choosing to work right after high school means you’re planning to get a full-time job instead of going to college or trade school right away. You might keep the job you already have, or you might look for something new. Either way, you'll be working full time, earning money, and probably not taking classes to build new skills or earn a degree—at least for now.

If you're ready to start making money and don’t want to sit in a classroom any longer, this could be a good path for you. Getting a job right after graduation lets you become financially independent sooner.

But before you decide, think about a few important questions:

• How much will you earn to start?

• Are there chances to get a raise or promotion over time?

• Can you grow within the company or switch to better positions later?

• Will the job offer benefits like help paying for school if you change your mind later?

It’s totally okay if school isn’t your thing right now—but make sure the job you take helps set you up for success in the long run.