What job opportunities are out there for someone who dropped out of high school? I know a few people considering this path and they are curious about their employment prospects.
While I strongly urge individuals to obtain their high school diplomas or GEDs as it significantly broadens their employment opportunities, I understand that circumstances sometimes necessitate an alternate course. There are still various fields a high school dropout may explore, though it's worth noting that many may require specific skills or training.
1. Entry-Level Jobs: These are often available in retail, food service, and customer service. Growth is often possible with dedication and hard work, and many top executives started in these very same roles.
2. Trade Workers: Demand for skilled tradespeople, such as plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians, remains robust. Training usually involves apprenticeship programs and vocational courses, opening up opportunities for high-earning potential.
3. Military Service: Enlistment in the armed forces is another possibility that offers benefits like skill development, potential tuition assistance, and structured career paths. Note that some branches may require a GED or a certain number of college credits.
4. Entrepreneurship: For those with a business idea and entrepreneurial spirit, starting their own business could be a suitable path. Examples include landscaping, house cleaning, auto repair, etc.
5. Construction Labor: Construction and labor-intensive roles often hire workers without a high school diploma, though the work can be physically challenging and sometimes dangerous.
6. Freelance Work: If they possess particular skills such as writing, graphic design, or programming, freelance work could be a viable option. Websites like Upwork or Fiverr are platforms where they can showcase their skills and find suitable gigs.
Again, while these options exist, completing high school or obtaining a GED opens up far greater opportunities. High school dropouts often find themselves earning significantly less over their lifetimes compared to their diploma-holding peers, so, if possible, I'd urge anyone considering this path to consider their long-term prospects very carefully.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.