College Alternatives You Need to Consider

Going to college is a huge decision – it’s not one to be taken lightly or for granted, despite how mainstream media and expectations make it seem. It isn’t the only thing the world has to offer new high school graduates, and it isn’t the only way you have any chances of kicking your career off the ground.

And if nobody has told you this yet, here’s something you need to know: you don’t have to go to college.

So, if you’re wavering on whether or not college is the right next step, want more time to think about it, or just want to see what other options are there, here are some college alternatives you need to consider.

Take a Gap Year

There’s a lot of world to see out there that most high school students don’t get the chance to see or learn about.

Taking some time away from school before jumping into higher education or job obligations can give you a chance to explore more of your interests and take the time to figure out what you want to do.

Even if you don’t travel during your gap year (which isn’t a requirement or everyone’s cup of tea anyway), taking things a little slower might be what you need to make a better-informed decision about what to do next.

Explore Vocational or Trade Schools

Office or corporate jobs aren’t the only career options out there. Trade schools, sometimes also called vocational schools, are simply one way for you to acquire a specific set of skills and knowledge in a job or career field. 

These are jobs that we encounter every day — think mechanical, HVAC (heating, ventilation, air condition), agriculture, construction, healthcare, and more.

Trade schools offer more specific skills and knowledge, compared to the broader scope of topics that students encounter at a traditional four-year university. If you’re thinking about entering one of these fields, look up what qualifications someone might need in that field to see what education they require.

Admission to each trade school will also differ, so make sure you check what criteria you need to meet before you graduate.

Community College

Maybe you don’t want to commit to going to the traditional university setting, but you’re hoping to learn more about a specific field before you commit to building your career there. Or maybe you’re already working on entering a specific job field, but you need some additional education and resources in the space.

Finding applicable classes at a local community college can be a great introduction to a job — some even offer courses that lead to licenses or accreditation that you might need for a specific role or title.

Starting your higher education at a community college might also make it easier to transfer into a four-year university later, if you choose to go down that path.

Freelancing and Entrepreneurship

The internet is making it much easier for people to start their own businesses, whether through selling physical products, specific marketable skills that people want, or consulting for other businesses.

If it’s something that’s interesting to you, growing your own personal brand or online business is a good opportunity to practice and learn some new skills that you can carry forward into any professional career.

Networking and being able to advocate for yourself and sell your abilities will be something you can use in every aspect of your life.

If you’re feeling the pressure and uncertainty of what to do after high school, don’t worry. Take a deep breath and be open to the different opportunities that will present themselves.