Children are often asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Their answers typically reflect the world around them, such as teachers, doctors, firefighters, police officers, and their parents’ professions. As they grow older and gain new experiences, their understanding of career possibilities expands. The world begins to open up.
These once-young dreamers eventually become teenagers, facing a new set of questions: “What college do you want to attend?” or “What are your plans after high school?” For some, the answer comes easily because they have a clear plan. For others, it may take time to explore and figure things out.
Let’s dive into the steps for finding the right trade school, college, or university to take that next step after graduation.
Start by Deciding on Your Career Path
Choosing a profession can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options. How do you narrow it down? Use this approach to guide your journey:
- Concentrate and focus on yourself.
- Hear and listen to advice from others who can share their experiences.
- Open your mind to the possibilities.
- Invest your time and energy into exploring different options.
- Choose a path that genuinely “feels right” to you.
- Experience and validate your decision by testing the waters.
- Stay flexible and open to change.
Ask Yourself Questions to Gain Clarity
To make an informed decision, reflect on these areas:
Education
- What subjects do you enjoy the most?
- How do you learn best? (e.g., research, reading, lectures, group discussions, hands-on experiments)
Activities
- Do you prefer working in groups or individually?
- Are you naturally inclined to lead, or do you thrive as a follower?
Environment
- Do you enjoy structured settings, or do you work better with flexibility?
- Do you find excitement in the new and unexpected, or prefer the familiar and obvious?
Skills
- What are your strengths and abilities?
- Are you drawn to abstract ideas and concepts, data and numbers, or working directly with people?
Values
- What matters most to you in life and work?
- Which values do you want your career to align with?
Investigate Career Options
Exploration is key to finding a profession that fits your interests and skills. Here are some ways to gather information:
- Find a Mentor: Seek someone who can offer guidance and advice based on their experience.
- Consult an Academic Advisor: They can help design a course of study and recommend ways to integrate internships, majors, and minors.
- Use Online Resources: Start with career-focused websites, online publications, and tools to research industries and roles.
- Speak with Professionals: Reach out to people in your field of interest to learn about their daily responsibilities, challenges, and favorite aspects of their work.
Make Use of Available Resources
Take advantage of opportunities to gain insight and experience:
- Volunteer: Hands-on experience in a field of interest can offer valuable insights you won’t find elsewhere.
- Join Professional Associations: Many associations offer student memberships, giving you access to resources and networking opportunities.
- Subscribe to Trade Magazines and Journals: Stay informed about industry trends, developments, and news.
- Attend Conferences and Seminars: These events go beyond classroom learning, providing real-world knowledge and connections.
The journey to finding the right path after high school is both exciting and challenging. You can make the right decision with the right mindset, resources, and support. Stay open to adapting as you grow. The possibilities are endless!
