I'll be graduating soon and I'm not planning to go to college right away. What are some good paying jobs for someone with just a high school diploma? Any advice or personal experiences would be great!
There's a range of good paying jobs you can consider as a high school graduate. Entry-level positions in certain sectors can offer decent starting salaries and opportunities for promotion over time. Here are some jobs that could be suitable, giving your career a head-start without a college degree:
1. Trade jobs: Becoming an electrician, plumber, or HVAC technician could be a good option. These require trade school or an apprenticeship but can lead to steady, well-paying work.
2. Commercial Driving: If you don't mind long hours on the road, getting your commercial driver's license could allow you to work as a truck driver.
3. IT Support: Some companies offer entry-level IT support positions for high school graduates and provide on-the-job training.
4. Sales Representative: Jobs in sales, particularly jobs that include commission, could be quite lucrative if you have strong interpersonal and negotiation skills.
5. Construction and Extraction: Roles like construction equipment operators, oil and gas drill operators, and blasters and explosive workers pay above median wages and often require only a high school diploma and on-the-job training.
6. Medical Industry: Though many roles in healthcare require a degree or certification, positions like a pharmacy technician or home health aide can offer decent pay and could provide a stepping stone to a future healthcare career if you decide to pursue further studies.
7. Military: If you're open to it, the military can offer valuable experience and an opportunity to gain various skills. Plus, they offer programs to pay for college if you decide to go later.
Remember to consider not only what pays well, but also what would align with your skills and interests. Gaining work experience could help you identify your strengths and career preferences before deciding on a future path.
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