While most parents would prefer it, life after high school doesn’t always include college for some kids. Many choose to join the workforce or even take a couple of years off to find themselves. It is a cold hard fact that college just isn’t for everyone.
It’s important to realize that whether you take a year off to travel or eventually end up taking the CCNA practice test to get your network certification online, the choice is yours and yours alone, as it should be. If you’re struggling with what you want to do once you graduate from high school this year, then read on below for a few of the top alternatives to college you might want to consider.
Start your own business
If you’ve always dreamed of starting your own business, then that’s the goal you need to reach for. One possible option, especially if you have considered becoming a Realtor, is to flip houses for a living. This, of course, involves remodeling homes from the ground up and then getting quick cash for house offers from different companies. It is a lucrative business once you get started.
If houses just aren’t your thing, think about what you’re passionate about and that’s where your business idea should start. Many successful Americans have followed this well-worn path to success. It’s important to note that you will need a solid business plan, patience, and dedication to pull off starting your own business, but it’s well-worth it in the end.
Get a full-time job
If you have no idea where you want to go with your life, and most high school graduates don’t, then try getting a full-time job for a year. In this way, you can earn money and learn responsibility as you figure out what you want to do on down the road. This will help you save for college, if that is the path you choose or even take advantage of the entry-level job you have chosen to advance in that field.
Volunteer
There are many organizations out there that would love to have you join their team as a volunteer. Volunteering is the perfect way for you to give back to the community and it will help you determine if you would like a career that involves helping others, while you figure out what is the best course of action for the rest of your life.
Join the military
Another great option is to enlist in the military. For many, joining the military is the perfect solution when they are at a crossroads. Not only does it give you purpose, but if you do decide you want to go to college, the military will help you do so. Joining the military can give you discipline and organizational skills that you may be lacking. You get healthcare, the ability to travel everywhere, and the honor of serving your country, as well. Joining the military isn’t for everyone, but if you’re at a crossroads and love your country, it could be the best option for you.
Enroll in community college
There is nowhere in the rule book that states you have to go to a four-year college in order to have a lucrative and happy career. You can take classes at the community college just as easily and earn a fine living doing something you love afterwards.
College isn’t for everyone, but maybe one of the alternatives above is for you. You shouldn’t have to go to college just because it’s expected, but you do need to figure out what you want to do with your life quite quickly if you hope to succeed in life.
