High school students have a lot going on. Between school, extracurriculars, and social commitments, it’s hard to find time to think about what’s next. Whether your student is unsure of their interests or finds it daunting to think about, it may be time to offer your guidance.

Fortunately, there are a ton of opportunities for high school graduates. Whether a university, community college, trade program, the military, travel, or a gap year, there’s opportunity in each for success and advancement.

This is a great time to connect and help your student decide who they want to be after high school. High schoolers have their entire lives ahead of them, and it can be scary to think about the unknowns. 

BlueSky supports students in college and/or career readiness. Our counselors ensure that all students create a Career Portfolio in the Minnesota Career Information System (MCIS). The online system provides career, education and labor market information in one tool. The portfolio helps students plan and track progress toward their educational goals. BlueSky requires that all students have a post-high school plan before they graduate.

Narrow down your student’s interests

Work with your high schooler to identify what they enjoy doing. They can then use this to narrow down their choices. For example, an interest in engineering puts them on the track to college. If they want to become an electrician, schedule a visit at a local vocational school.

The support system at your child’s school can also be an important resource. Counselors and advisors can provide a new perspective on your child and their goals. 

Sometimes, kids need more time to discover their interests. If that’s the case, it can help to make a list and discuss their options. The most important thing is that you guide them toward success.

Determine their goals

Your student won’t know where to begin if they haven’t thought about their end goals. Where do they want to be in five years? What kind of lifestyle do they want? Even if they don’t know exactly what they want to do, help them to establish some general goals. Then, create a plan to reach them.

Even without an exact end point, this can offer them an idea of what they need to do to get to where they want to go.

Encourage your child to get curious 

Let them know that there is no wrong way to explore what the future has to offer. Encourage them to reach for the stars and dive into anything they’re curious about. Getting out there and seeing what the world has to offer is powerful. Encourage them to research colleges, and then, if plausible, schedule college visits.

If they’re curious about another career option, take them to experience it. If they’re curious about a career as a firefighter, visit the local firehouse to see what a day in the life looks like. 

What are their options after high school?

It’s a common belief that a traditional four-year college is the only viable option after high school. But what if your child doesn’t want to go to college? Today, there is less pressure against those that choose not to pursue a degree. There are many paths that can lead to a happy and meaningful life.

Four-year college or university

A traditional four-year university can prepare you for a range of careers. College can be a challenge as it requires hard work without much structure or support. Before graduation, discuss what type of college is the right choice. Small schools may offer more attention while larger ones may have more opportunities.

Community college 

Unlike universities, community college is a two-year affair. It offers lower fees, admission requirements and smaller classes. After graduating, some students will transfer their credits to a four-year college. It can help students build time management and study skills while still living at home.

Local community colleges include Minneapolis Community and Technical College and Normandale Community College. Many community colleges are open access, which means that all students can enroll.

Trade and certificate programs

Trade or vocational programs offer a direct path toward specific jobs. Vocational schools include technical colleges and trade schools. Both allow students to complete programs in one to two years. Instead of traditional core topics, the curriculum focuses only on necessary skills. 

These programs prepare students for careers in dental assisting, plumbing, cosmetology, and more. Local programs include Dunwoody College of Technology, Aveda Institute, and Prime Digital Academy.

Enter the workforce

Another option after graduation is to join the workforce straight out of school. Some students may do so to earn money for school or because they may already have a job that could turn into a career. Many employers provide on-the-job training.

Explore their options together 

This is a time of a lot of potential change, and that can be unsettling. Use this time to explore your student’s interests together. Allow them to lead the way and stay open-minded. 

Future planning for high school students doesn’t need to be scary. Help them determine their path and ease anxieties by being there for them. If your student isn’t ready for college or a career, consider a gap year. They could spend this time traveling, working, volunteering and discovering their interests.

Visit our parent resources for more ways to counsel and guide your student.