I'm thinking about entering the workforce straight after high school and I'm curious about the types of good paying jobs that are available with just a high school diploma. Any suggestions or experiences would be really helpful!
Absolutely, there are numerous paths to successful careers without a college degree. Here are some areas to consider:
1. Trade Skills: Many skilled trade jobs don't require a college degree and can offer good pay. These include electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and carpenters. By enrolling in an apprenticeship, you can learn the necessary skills while earning a paycheck.
2. Technology: While many tech companies prefer college degrees, some are more interested in skills than formal education. You could consider teaching yourself or attending a coding bootcamp to learn languages like JavaScript or Python. Job roles like web developers, user experience designers, and database administrators often prioritize skills and portfolios over formal education.
3. Real Estate: Real estate agents only require a high school diploma and a license. The compensation is often commission-based, so your earning potential can be quite high if you're good at selling properties.
4. Emergency Services: Positions like police officers, firefighters, and EMTs often require only a high school diploma or GED, along with specific academy training. These are valuable, community-centric roles that usually come with benefits and a stable income.
5. Sales: Many sales jobs require just a high school diploma and offer a base salary plus commission. Salespeople in certain sectors, like pharmaceutical or tech sales, often earn significant compensation.
6. Transportation: Jobs such as long-haul truckers or public transit operators usually offer solid pay and benefits. For these roles, you'll need a clean driving record and will likely need to attain a specific license (like a Commercial Driver's License for truckers).
Keep in mind, while these jobs don't require a four-year degree, some of them may require specific vocational training or certifications. Conduct thorough research into the qualifications needed for any job path that interests you. Starting your career right after high school could offer great experience and, depending on your field, lucrative opportunities.
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