RESOURCES
2024-03-13
Life After High School
Explore exciting opportunities and pathways for life after high school. Discover career tips and college advice with Tilting Futures.
Published by Tilting Futures
Life After High School
As high school comes to an end, you embark on a new chapter of your life. While this transition is filled with endless possibilities that spark excitement, it is also filled with crucial decisions that can feel daunting. Planning for the future becomes essential as you head into the next phase, whether you pursue higher education, enter the workforce, or take a gap year.
Fortunately, you don’t have to tackle it all alone. Learn more about your options, as well as some helpful tips for navigating changes. This will help you have a clearer picture of your life after high school and give you the tools to plan your future.
Understanding Your Options
Sometimes it feels like everyone follows the same path after graduating from high school, but there are actually several options available.
Higher Education
Four-Year Colleges and Universities
Pursuing a degree at a four-year college or university offers a traditional path to higher education. The application process typically involves standardized tests and essays, as well as recommendation letters. Although it can be a rigorous endeavor, it offers the chance to build certain skills from the beginning.
With plenty of benefits, like a wide range of academic programs and opportunities for campus life and networking, it’s no wonder many young adults follow this route. However, there are also some drawbacks to be aware of, including high tuition costs and the potential for student debt.
Community Colleges
Community colleges offer a more flexible — and affordable — alternative to four-year institutions. At these colleges, you can expect lower tuition costs and smaller class sizes. They also offer the ability to balance work and studies. Many community colleges even have transfer opportunities to four-year universities, allowing students to complete their general education requirements before transferring to complete their degree.
Trade Schools
Another option for higher education is trade schools, where students receive vocational training for specific careers. This provides a practical and direct path to employment. Popular programs include healthcare, automotive technology, and skilled trades like plumbing and electrical work. These programs are often shorter and less expensive than traditional college degrees, acting as a quick entry point into the workforce.
Entering the Workforce
Another viable option is entering the workforce straight out of high school. With current trends in the job market showing a high demand for industries like technology and skilled trades, this path can offer immediate employment opportunities. Many companies provide on-the-job training and entry-level positions that can lead to career advancement without the need for a college degree.
Common entry-level positions include roles in customer service and administrative support. These jobs generally require skills and qualifications like basic computer literacy, communication skills, and a strong work ethic. However, gaining experience in these roles can be a stepping stone to more advanced positions.
One of the most common ways of entering the workforce right after high school is through apprenticeships or internships. These opportunities provide hands-on experience in a specific field, often leading to full-time employment. They also offer long-term benefits like skill development and professional connections. Programs like Tilting Futures’ Take Action Lab offer immersive experiences that help students grow and develop critical skills for their future careers.
Gap Year
What Is a Gap Year?
One option that is becoming more common is a gap year. This break from formal education, typically taken after high school and before college or starting a career, is a chance to decide what direction you want to take. Its purpose is to provide time for personal growth and exploration with life experiences that you might not have otherwise.
Benefits of Taking a Gap Year
Taking a gap year offers opportunities for travel and cultural experiences, helping young adults develop a broader perspective and valuable life skills. These experiences can enhance your college applications and resumes, as well as provide insight into your long-term goals.
Tilting Futures Gap Year
Tilting Futures’ gap year programs are designed to provide enriching experiences that foster both personal and professional growth. Participants engage in meaningful projects, cultural exchanges, and leadership training, making it a transformative period that prepares them for future success.
Considering a semester abroad?
See how Take Action Lab could align with your goals.
Financial Planning
Navigating the financial aspects of post-high school life is crucial for long-term success. Whether you’re heading to college or entering the workforce, understanding how to manage your finances can set you on the right path.
Budgeting Basics
Creating and sticking to a budget is essential for financial stability. You can start by listing all sources of income and categorizing your expenses into fixed and variable. Use budgeting tools or apps to track your spending and adjust as needed to ensure you live within your means. This practice helps build financial discipline and prepares you for future financial responsibilities.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
There are various types of scholarships and grants available, including:
- Merit-based
- Need-based
- Field-specific awards
To apply, research opportunities early and prepare a strong application. Keep an eye on deadlines and try to get your application in as early as possible. Writing compelling essays that highlight your achievements and community involvement can help you stand out from the competition.
Student Loans
When scholarships and savings aren’t enough, student loans can help cover educational costs. Federal loans often offer lower interest rates and more flexible repayment options compared to private loans. Develop a plan for managing and repaying student loans, such as setting up automatic payments and exploring repayment plans based on your income. This helps you stay on top of your financial commitments after graduation.
Navigating Life Changes
Transitioning to independent living involves more than just finding a place to stay; it requires developing essential life skills and managing new responsibilities. It’s important to prepare for the changes and challenges that come with adulthood.
Moving Out and Living Independently
Finding suitable housing and roommates is a significant step towards independence. Start by researching housing options that fit your budget and lifestyle. Consider sharing expenses with roommates to reduce costs. It’s equally important to learn the basics of living on your own, such as cooking, cleaning, and managing household chores. Establish routines to maintain a clean and organized living space.
Managing Time and Responsibilities
This can be a busy time, but effective time management strategies can help you balance work, study, and personal life. Try different tools like planners or digital calendars to schedule your tasks and commitments. It can also be beneficial to prioritize your responsibilities and break large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Set aside specific times for work and study, but don’t forget to schedule relaxation for a balanced approach.
Health and Wellness
Maintaining both physical and mental health can make all the difference for your overall well-being. Adopt healthy habits like regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep. Make sure you have access to healthcare services by understanding your health insurance options and knowing where to find medical and mental health support.
Conclusion
Navigating life after high school involves important decisions about higher education, entering the workforce, or taking a gap year. Understanding these options, along with financial planning and managing life changes, is crucial.
Tilting Futures’ Take Action Lab program offers a unique gap year experience to foster personal growth and professional development. Through immersive projects, cultural exchanges, and leadership training, the TAL program prepares you for future success and helps you build essential skills. Apply today!
