Careers and Military

WORKING AFTER HIGH SCHOOL

Careers

Careers After High School: A Guide for Students

What Does "Careers After High School" Mean?
When people talk about "careers after high school," they are referring to the different job opportunities available to students once they graduate. Some students choose to go to college or trade school, while others decide to start working right away. No matter what path you take, there are many careers you can begin straight out of high school that offer good pay, benefits, and opportunities for growth.

Careers Available to High School Graduates

If you want to start working right after high school, here are some great options:

Trades & Skilled Labor (Hands-on jobs that may require training but not a college degree; more information in the Trade/Apprenticeship section)
- Electrician Apprentice
- Plumber Apprentice
- HVAC Technician
- Welder
- Auto Mechanic
Healthcare Careers
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- Medical Assistant
- Pharmacy Technician
- Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
Office & Customer Service Jobs
- Administrative Assistant
- Customer Service Representative
- Bank Teller
- Receptionist
Technology & IT Jobs
- IT Support Specialist
- Data Entry Clerk
- Help Desk Technician
Public Safety & Government Jobs
- Police Cadet (some departments allow training right after high school)
- Firefighter (with academy training)
- Postal Service Worker
Manufacturing & Warehouse Work
- Factory Worker
- Forklift Operator
- Warehouse Associate
Retail & Hospitality
- Sales Associate
- Hotel Front Desk Clerk
- Restaurant Server
- Cook/Chef Assistant
Entrepreneurship & Self-Employment
- Starting a small business (e.g., lawn care, photography, online sales)
- Freelancing (graphic design, writing, social media management)

How to Get a Job After High School

1. Create a Resume
A resume is a short document that lists your skills, education, and work experience. Even if you have never had a job before, you can include:

Volunteer work
Extracurricular activities
Skills (communication, teamwork, computer skills, etc.)
Certifications (CPR, food handling, etc.)

2. Apply for Jobs

Search online (Indeed, LinkedIn, company websites)
Visit local businesses and ask if they are hiring
Attend job fairs

3. Prepare for Interviews

Practice answering common interview questions
Dress appropriately (clean and professional clothing)
Be on time and bring a copy of your resume

4. Consider Job Training or Certifications
Some jobs require special training or certification, but many of these can be completed in a few months. Community colleges and trade schools often offer affordable training programs.

5. Network and Ask for Help
Let teachers, family, and friends know you’re looking for a job. They may know of job openings or be able to refer you to an employer.

Starting a career right after high school can be a great choice, especially if you want to earn money and gain experience. Many jobs offer training, promotions, and opportunities to grow into higher-paying roles. Whether you want to work right away or explore different career options, there are many paths to success.

Would you like help with creating a resume or finding local job opportunities?

If so please schedule a meeting with me or send me an email so we can work together on this important process!

Resume Handouts

Copy of Resume Template

RESUME TEMPLATE

Copy of Resume Writing

RESUME WRITING HELP

Copy of Resume Writing Guide.pdf

RESUME WRITING GUIDE

JOINING THE MILITARY AFTER HIGH SCHOOL

Military

Joining the Military After High School: A Guide for Students

What Does It Mean to Join the Military After High School?

Joining the military after high school means enlisting in one of the branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. The military offers a structured career path with benefits such as job training, free or low-cost education, housing, healthcare, and opportunities to travel. While some people join for a few years, others make a lifelong career out of military service.

Branches of the Military

Each branch of the military has a different focus, but all offer a variety of career opportunities.

U.S. Army
- Largest branch of the military
- Focuses on land-based operations
- Offers jobs in combat, medical, engineering, intelligence, and more
U.S. Navy
- Specializes in sea and ocean-based missions
- Operates aircraft carriers, submarines, and ships
- Offers jobs in aviation, mechanics, medical fields, and cybersecurity
U.S. Marine Corps
- A branch of the Navy but operates on land, sea, and air
- Known for being one of the toughest branches
- Offers jobs in infantry, aviation, logistics, and intelligence
U.S. Air Force
- Focuses on air and space operations
- Operates fighter jets, bombers, and drones
- Offers jobs in aviation, cybersecurity, intelligence, and engineering
U.S. Space Force
- The newest branch, focused on space operations
- Handles satellite communications, missile warning systems, and cybersecurity
- Offers jobs in science, technology, and intelligence
U.S. Coast Guard
- Protects U.S. waters and enforces maritime law
- Handles search and rescue missions, drug enforcement, and border security
- Offers jobs in engineering, law enforcement, and medical fields
U.S. National Guard & Reserves
- Part-time military service while also allowing you to have a civilian job or attend college
- National Guard responds to state emergencies and natural disasters
- Reserves support active-duty military when needed

How to Join the Military After High School

1. Research the Best Branch for You
Each branch has different jobs, requirements, and benefits. Think about what kind of work interests you and which branch aligns with your goals.

2. Meet with a Recruiter
A recruiter will explain the enlistment process, job opportunities, and benefits. They will also help you prepare for the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery), a test that determines what military jobs you're eligible for.

3. Take the ASVAB Test

The ASVAB is a multiple-choice test that measures your skills in math, science, reading, and technical areas.
Your scores determine what military jobs (MOS, AFSC, or ratings) you qualify for.

4. Pass the Physical Exam (MEPS)

The Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) will evaluate your medical history, physical fitness, and background.
You will also take a drug test and get fingerprinted.

5. Choose Your Job & Sign a Contract

Based on your ASVAB score, you’ll choose a job within your branch.
You’ll sign a contract that outlines your enlistment length (typically 4-6 years).

6. Attend Basic Training ("Boot Camp")

Every branch has its own basic training program, usually lasting 8-12 weeks.
You’ll learn discipline, physical fitness, and military skills.

7. Begin Your Military Career

After boot camp, you’ll attend Advanced Individual Training (AIT) or Tech School to learn the skills for your specific job.
You will then be assigned to a duty station, either in the U.S. or overseas.

Benefits of Joining the Military

Free or Low-Cost College (GI Bill and Tuition Assistance)
Guaranteed Salary & Benefits (Healthcare, Housing, Retirement)
Travel Opportunities (Stations worldwide)
Leadership Training (Great for future careers)
Job Experience in Over 200 Career Fields

Final Thoughts

The military can be a great option if you’re looking for job security, benefits, and career advancement. Whether you serve for a few years or make it a lifelong career, the military provides valuable skills and education that can help you succeed in any field.

Would you like help finding a recruiter, studying for the ASVAB, or comparing different branches? If so schedule a meeting or send me an email!

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