what do high school dropouts usually end up doing?

This might sound a bit weird, but I'm writing an essay about educational systems. I'm trying to examine the outcomes for high school dropouts, and I'm wondering what most of them end up doing? Do they mostly get jobs, go to alternative schools, or something else entirely?

The path taken by high school dropouts, as with all people, can be varied. It's important to keep in mind that while many face challenges, others do eventually find their way and can lead successful lives despite the initial setback.

Many high school dropouts find work in industries open to people without a high school diploma. This includes sectors such as construction, food service, retail, manual labor, and the care industry. Many may initially find themselves in lower-paying, entry-level jobs.

In some cases, individuals who didn't finish high school may recognize the limitations of not having a diploma and pursue alternate educational opportunities. This could include obtaining a GED (General Educational Development) credential, which is a high school equivalent diploma. Some dropouts might enroll in adult education classes offered by community colleges or community centers.

Others may lean into entrepreneurship, taking advantage of a market opportunity or a vocational skill they have. This path, while potentially successful, can also be fraught with financial risk and uncertainty.

Joining the military could be an option for some high school dropouts. However, it's worth noting that most military branches require at least a high school diploma or GED, and even then, entrance into the military has become increasingly competitive.

In terms of social outcomes, research suggests that high school dropouts are more likely to experience unemployment, have lower earnings over their lifetime, and have higher rates of incarceration than their counterparts who complete high school. Furthermore, they're less likely to vote or volunteer in their community, suggesting lower levels of civic engagement.

In summary, while high school dropouts might follow varied paths, they generally face a steeper road to finding fulfilling work or pursuing further education. Conversely, some successfully navigate through these obstacles, demonstrating resilience and resourcefulness. Ultimately, prevention and intervention strategies to keep students in school are crucial, and understanding the reasons why students choose to drop out might aid in formulating effective methods.