What Happens After High School?
Being in high school can be a difficult time due to academic pressures and social context; and accompanied by a feeling of uncertainty — a signature of an important transitional period. Being between 16 and 24 means that you have to start thinking about your future, how to be economically independent and what path to take in regards to a career or trade.
In addition to these important life-altering decisions, there are pressures coming from a myriad of sources, such as school counselors, parents, and other peers. Even though they all have the best intentions in mind, it can be daunting to approach this subject with a clear and personal perspective.
Here are some things to start thinking about, but keep in mind that your journey is unique to your needs and dreams. Although it is important to start preparing, you may take your time pondering these decisions. And, we know just how to help you. Read on to find out about our customized solution designed to help you navigate all these choices.
College and Financial Aid
After high school, there are many options to consider and a variety of factors to take into account. For those who wish to pursue a higher education, there are multiple ways of achieving this. If financing your studies is a concern you may choose to collect credits in a community college for the first two years and then transfer to a different institution of your choice. There are also a number of scholarships for different programs and areas worth researching; this page is a useful tool to find scholarships for Latino students. Lastly, financial aid varies across a wide spectrum, so be sure to inquire the possibilities each college offers before making a decision.
Entering the Workforce
If you don’t think that college is the right path for you, but you are ready to enter the workforce, consider what kind of trade you’d like to dedicate yourself to and apply for internships in those areas. It’s important to note that the majority of students who enter the workforce immediately upon high school graduation need the same level of skills and knowledge as those pursuing a college career. Studies have pointed out that those who have held jobs during high school perform better in the workplace as well as in an academic setting.
Taking a Gap Year
Another thing worth mentioning is that changing your mind is completely acceptable, you may decide to enter the workforce and then move on to college a year or two later. If you’re not convinced about where to go next, a gap year could be the right choice for you. Many students have benefited from taking a year to participate in community service and different programs abroad as a tool of self-discovery and experience.
Figuring it all Out
We are here to help. The reality is that you don’t need to know what exactly it is you want to do -- or how to get there just yet. There is value in taking your time exploring all your possibilities and we can help you figure it out.
This summer we have a prepared a 4-week program for youths ages 16-24 to gain the tools and skills they need for the next stage of their lives. The program features lessons on “soft skills” such as professionalism, teamwork, attitude, and communication; as well as an internship component to prepare our student for their area of interest by providing them with experience.
For more information visit this page....