When graduating high school, many people assume that the next obvious step is going to college; however, this is not the only option available to graduating seniors. There is an endless number of positive experiences and opportunities at your fingertips. Whether you want to explore, venture out into the professional world, or learn more about yourself, there are endless choices and paths in front of you. As you think about your next steps, here are a few of the best options for you to consider.
5 Options for High School Students After Graduation
A Gap Year
If you want to take time to reflect, grow and learn, gap years can be a great option. Gap years have gained popularity in recent years due to the invaluable and incomparable lessons and opportunities for reflection that are difficult to replicate. You have the wondrous experience of venturing into a new community and visiting new places within the structure and format of the gap year experience. You can learn from others their reasons for taking a gap year, so don’t be afraid to ask around to help you decide if a gap year is the best next step for you.
Volunteer
Volunteering can be a great move if you want to do something positive and productive with your time after graduating high school. Keep in mind that volunteering won’t pay the bills; however, it can be a formative and impactful experience. Not only will you inevitably learn about the community that you are supporting, but you likely will learn a lot about yourself and benefit significantly through the process.
Professional Ventures
For those who want to test the waters of the professional world, don’t be afraid to start working following high school and delay further schooling for now. Whether you need to pay bills as a necessity or are looking to explore the startup world, there are plenty of reasons and opportunities to start work immediately. Professional experience can also be a great way to set you up for success in college and leave you more prepared than you would have otherwise been.
Road Trips
Another quintessential high school graduate experience is a road trip. If you have never had a chance to truly explore the country, consider packing up your car and a few friends and taking a long road trip. Whether you schedule this before college or your gap year, this can be an exhilarating way to experience the world. Regardless of the length of your trip, don’t be afraid to take an adventure once you graduate high school.
College or University
You can always take a traditional path after high school and go to college. This is not just a chance to venture out from home. Whether you choose community college or a four-year college or university, the reality is that college can be challenging, and you need to be prepared and know what to expect. Whatever you choose, you should make sure that you select the option that best suits your needs, goals, and next steps.
As you reach this pivotal point in life, don’t be afraid to take a detour or alter your path to find the best fit for your next chapter. Once you graduate high school, you have the world at your feet.
