Life After High School: 4 Options for Flourishing in the Wide World

It’s an unforgettable feeling. With final exams nearing and a grad ceremony fast approaching, high school seniors feel – perhaps for the first time in their lives – like the world is theirs. That decisive hand that guided you throughout the last 12 years of education, whether in the form of teachers, administrators, parents or mentors, is finally ready to let go. And with that newfound freedom, you are in control of your life’s path. 

It’s equal parts exhilarating and scary. If you’re like most high school students, you don’t have a detailed understanding of what you want – and that’s okay. In this article, let’s review four options at your disposal, each a valid way to flourish in the wide world.

The Four-Year Bachelor’s Degree

This is the classic progression from high school, where you apply everything you learned to new, more complex theoretical frameworks. Critically, these four-year degrees represent a standard track toward many high-paying careers: engineer, computer scientist, advertising guru, teacher, doctor, etc. 

However, a four-year bachelor’s degree at a respected university is also the most challenging of the five options listed. You need good grades, a compelling personal statement, and a robust extracurricular CV to gain acceptance. If your grades are below average heading into senior year, consider taking self-paced grade 12 courses from an accredited online school like Ontario eSecondary School; these schools offer lots of support and the time you need to finish strong. 

The Gap Year Abroad

Understandably, after 12 years of formal education, you might want a break from school as you know it. That’s where the gap year shines. 

A gap year is essentially a 12-month stint you can take to explore the world before you apply to university, college, trade programs or the workforce. It is its own sort of education – offering a deeper understanding of varying cultural perspectives and allowing you to exercise your independence and self-determination. Gaps years can be purely about tourism, or you can incorporate volunteering, studying abroad, or working abroad. 

The Trade or Certificate Program

If you want to work in a trade or specialized field that doesn’t require a university degree, you’ll likely pursue a trade/certificate program. 

These programs and certifications are often shorter than university degrees (duration varies widely depending on the field) and offer applied education in a specific area. For instance, a student who wants to become an electrician will take roughly 4 years of education/in-school training followed by workplace hours. Conversely, a fine furniture woodworker will take a 10-month course to prepare them for an entry-level carpentry position. 

The Straight-to-Work Route

You’re eager to make money now? While you may encounter several people pushing you toward formal school training, the reality is that some students flourish better when they head straight for the workforce. 

Choose an industry that interests you based on your skillset and ambitions. Research various companies in your area in that industry. Cast a wide net with your resume. And attempt to land an internship, junior position or mentorship position. 

There is no wrong or right way to start your adulthood. Every path is different – just as every high school student is unique. Take time to reflect on your goals and values, and choose a path that makes sense for your life. Remember: you don’t have to get it right the first time; there is always room for U-turns! 

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