Are you a high school senior considering your options for post-graduation?
United Career Institute presents our top 6 tips for high school seniors as they prepare for graduation and education beyond high school.
Continue reading to learn some helpful ideas to make the transition from high school to higher education easier!
1. Decide What Career Path Fits You
One of the first steps in deciding your post-graduate path is to determine what career you could see yourself in. For example, perhaps you’ve always dreamed of working in healthcare and want to attend a school that prepares you with hands-on skills without unnecessary classes. Or you imagine yourself working in a skills-based trade. Determining what type of career you want to pursue can help you select the right path after graduation.
If you are torn between career options or want a good starting point for your research, taking an online career aptitude test can allow you to answer questions about your personality, your skills, and interests, even how you imagine yourself dressing for work, and will tell you a career path that best fits your lifestyle.
2. Start Looking At Schools Early
Once you have determined a general career path you could see yourself in, the next step is to research schools that offer training that aligns with your goals. There are hundreds of options for high school grads, and choosing a school that fits your needs can sometimes feel overwhelming.
When going through the process of selecting a school, imagine yourself as a student there. Choosing to continue your education is a commitment, and you want to ensure you select an institution that will provide you with the best bang for your buck. Accelerated, hands-on training programs are becoming more popular for students looking to gain the skills they need to enter the workforce quickly. As you choose a school, think about the amount of time you’ll spend earning your degree or diploma, the skills you will gain in your program, and if there is any certification* training built into your program.
3. Sharpen Up Your Time Management Skills
Transitioning from a high school workload to a college level can be daunting for some students, so it is essential to set the foundation for good time management before graduation. Higher education can bring deadlines, studying, tests, and more to juggle, so it’s a good idea to set yourself up for success in handling the increased responsibilities.
One way to improve your time management skills is to determine what type of learner you are. When you feel more confident in your ability to handle the added stress after graduation, you can improve your productivity in every aspect of your life and set yourself up for success as you pursue a degree or diploma.
4. Think About Scholarships and Grants
These days, there is one thing that seems to be on everyone’s mind: cost. As the cost of living rises, the need to secure a stable career is at an all-time high. So putting yourself on the path to being financially stable is something that every high school senior should consider as they move closer to graduation.
Higher education can be expensive, but there are many resources available that allow you to train for your career affordably. For example, at United Career Institute, students can expect to work with a financial aid team member to discuss grant/scholarship*** opportunities, financial aid**, and loans to help make school an option. United Career Institute also offers high school seniors the opportunity to apply for an early admission grant*** to help finance their education.
5. Prepare for Standardized Testing
Standardized testing is a common way to evaluate a student’s knowledge, and high school seniors should have experienced multiple standardized tests over their four years in high school. Higher education institutions also utilize standardized testing or entry to specific programs. For example, students looking to enter a Practical Nursing program must take and pass the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS) exam.
As you research which schools offer the program you are interested in, note if there is a standardized test you must take for entry. If there is, be sure to prepare for it beforehand to give yourself the best chance of passing.
6. Build A Strong Support Network
No matter which path you decide to take post-graduation, attending a higher education institution can be challenging. That’s why you should start developing your support system before graduating high school. Think about who you can rely on to pick you up when you’re feeling unmotivated. These are the people you want to have in your corner!
Additionally, choosing a school committed to helping you succeed can be an important factor in your educational experience. United Career Institute provides career management services to help ensure the success of every student.
Make The Best Choice For Your Future
If you’ve decided that attending United Career Institute is the right path for you after graduation, we are here to help you succeed! So take the first step and contact our admissions team by calling 724-515-2440 or Requesting Information today!
*Certification is contingent upon passing the corresponding industry certification exam.
**For those who qualify.
***For those who qualify. See catalog for detailed eligibility requirements.