I'm currently in a Vermont state high school and starting to think about life after graduation. Could anyone shed some light on what the most common routes are for fellow graduates? Are there specific colleges/universities we tend to choose, industries we head towards or military branches we join?
From what I understand, many Vermont high school graduates choose to stay local for their post-secondary education due to familiarity and financial reasons. On the frontline is the University of Vermont (UVM), a popular choice due to its strong programs and its active role in providing a range of options from liberal arts to pre-professional studies. In addition, Vermont Technical College, Champlain College, and Middlebury College are other common choices.
Students interested in a technical or vocational pathway often head towards the Community College of Vermont or Vermont Tech, where they aim for two-year degrees or certification programs. These equip students with practical skills in fields like nursing, automotive technology, and agriculture.
I've heard some graduates looking to break familiarity choose to attend colleges and universities outside the state but within the New England region. These may include the University of New Hampshire, University of Massachusetts Amherst, or Boston University to name a few.
Industry-wise, in line with Vermont's character, I know there is a strong emphasis on sustainable practices. Hence, sectors related to environmental conservation, agriculture, renewable energy, and outdoor recreation tend to draw a decent share of graduates. The healthcare field, especially nursing, also remains a common career choice, given the demand.
Joining the military is another trajectory that some graduates take. The most common branches enlistees from Vermont choose based on statistics are usually the Army National Guard or the Air National Guard. That said, this is entirely dependent on personal interests and goals.
Remember, the most popular options don't necessarily have to be your path. It's important that your future aligns with your passions and goals. The right path could be attending a local college or university, enlisting in the military, starting a career early, or even taking a gap year. All choices are valid and are worth exploring. Good luck with your exploration!
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