There is a lot of pressure on young people today to go to college. They frequently hear that college is the only way they can hope to have a fulfilling life full of opportunity and financial stability. That may have been true 40 years ago, but a college degree is not what it once was. Many graduates are finding that they are leaving college with massive amounts of student loan debt for a field of study that they can’t find a job in. For many young adults, college is out of reach because they don’t have the money, the grades in high school, or the desire to go. There is nothing wrong with not going to college—it’s not for everyone, and there is money to be made without a college degree. Here are four alternatives to college after high school for those that choose not to attend.
Join the Military
As the saying goes “we’re looking for a few good men,” and women. The
U.S. armed services are always looking for qualified candidates to join their ranks. Joining any branch of the military will prepare you for a life in and out of the service. You can learn any number of technical skills in addition to learning to be a soldier. Civilian employers love to hire veterans because they already have discipline and training that translate well to the business world.
Go to Trade School
If you took shop class in high school, are handy around the house, have a love of cars, or just like doing real work with your hands, attending trade school is a good alternative to college after high school. There are lots of trade schools that teach automotive repair, plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, and other traditional trades. In recent years, though, technical trade schools are gaining in popularity and exposure. You can learn coding, computer repair, networking, and many other technical skills that are in demand.
Travel the World
Maybe you don’t know what you want to do, and who does at 18 years old? Don’t jump into anything after school. Take some time to explore the world. There will be no better time than now to travel—no family, no job, no home, no bills. Nothing is holding you back from seeing the world. Take a few months to save some cash and buy a ticket to see the world. While you’re out there, you just might figure out in what direction you want to take your life.
Get a Job, Any Job
When you finished school, the expectation is that you will get a job someday—so go get one. Find a job that interests you and pays fairly well, and get to work. Don’t think you will find your dream job right out of high school; just get something that will afford you your own place and some spending money. Work for a while, figure out what you want to do, and make your way toward that goal.
