College and Military Alternatives

Hello everyone. I've been thinking lately about the different routes one can take after high school. Besides college and the military, what other viable paths exist for someone straight out of high school?

Certainly, there are numerous alternatives to college and the military after high school. Here are a few options:

1. Trade or Vocational Schools: If you have a particular skill or interest, pursuing a vocational or trade school could be a great idea. These schools provide job-specific training programs like carpentry, electrical work, culinary arts, or cosmetology.

2. Apprenticeships: Apprenticeships allow you to learn a trade or skill while working under the guidance of experienced professionals. Very common in fields such as construction, manufacturing, and culinary arts.

3. Community College: Community colleges often offer two-year associate degrees and vocational training. They can be a more affordable way to complete the first two years of a bachelor's degree, or to pick up career skills.

4. Start a Business: Entrepreneurship might be a viable path if you have a business idea or a passion project and the drive to see it through.

5. Gap Year: A well-planned gap year can offer significant benefits. Many people use this year for travel, internships, or service projects that could also enhance future college applications.

6. National or Community Service: Programs like AmeriCorps and City Year offer opportunities to serve communities in need and often provide an education stipend upon completion.

7. Tech Schools/Bootcamps: If you're keen on diving into tech-oriented fields like coding, data science, digital marketing, etc., joining boot camps can offer intensive training and job placement assistance.

Remember, every path is unique and comes with its own set of experiences and learning. Evaluate your own interests, long-term career goals, and financial circumstances to choose the right path for you.