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AFTER HIGH SCHOOL – DECIDING WHAT’S NEXT

After High School

Getting started

Considering your needs and goals, these questions can help you determine the best choice for you:

  1. What academic or career pathway am I interested in?
  2. Which topics and skills do I enjoy or usually excel in?
  3. Does this profession require a degree, certificate, or advanced education?
  4. Is there a test or certification required? What organization regulates the test or certification?
  5. What is my financial situation? Is there funding or support available to help cover my educational expenses? Will the salary be sufficient?

Taking a career assessment can be a great starting point.  Once you find the careers that interest you, research the education and training required for each one.

After finding a career path

Once you find a career path, there may be more than one option for the education and training you need. Each education and training option may have different lengths and costs, so it is essential to evaluate your choices carefully. The steps below can help you find the right career for you:

  • Consider the demand and projections for your chosen career. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) can be a helpful resource.
  • Find out about the job duties. Learning about the responsibilities (including practical, administrative, etc.) will help you have a more realistic expectation.
  • Determine whether a degree, certification, or license is required for your career path. Your local department of education may be able to share information on tests and licensure needed in your state.
  • Talk with employers to learn more about the job you want. Even if a position is not available at the time, employers may offer an informational interview as an alternative. An informational interview can help you learn more about the training programs they recruit from, the equipment and software you need to be familiar with, and the critical soft skills that you should develop.

Education, such as degrees or certifications, can provide knowledge and skills that could lead to more job and career opportunities. A post-secondary education can help you gain skills that you’ll use for the rest of your life.

Also, many jobs and careers don’t require specialized education or training. Consider your needs, and exploring options can help you reach your career goals.

For more information, go to: https://handsonbanking.org/resources/deciding-whats-next.