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The biggest decision most high school students make is whether or not to go to college after graduation. Although there are many reasons for choosing to pursue post-secondary education the number one reason students give when asked about it is that they want to prepare themselves for a career. It’s a reality that most jobs require workers to have knowledge and skills beyond what they learned in high school in order to be successful.
No matter what the occupation, workers need to know and be able to do more than ever before. As the workplace becomes more information-based, the use of technology increases, and competition goes global, job seekers have to be better and better prepared. In 1950, only 20% of jobs required skilled workers; by 2006 it was 88%. Of the jobs being created today, 70% require post-secondary education of some kind.
There’s a lot to think about when deciding whether or not to go to college. It’s a decision that will likely have an impact on the whole family, not just the student, so it needs to be carefully considered. Be sure to look for more information about the options at school, online and in the community and be fully prepared to make the right decision.
What do I want to study?
Counseling offices are great places to start looking for information about careers and college. There are also lots of websites that can help with interest inventories and aptitude tests. Take advantage of job shadowing opportunities through school. Tech Prep programs are especially good for career exploration so get in touch with a Tech Prep Site Coordinator to find out more.
Where is what I want to learn taught?
Post-secondary institutions include four-year colleges and universities, two-year junior and community colleges, and career and technical institutes. Colleges and universities award bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. Junior and community colleges offer associate degrees and certificates. Career and technical institutes provide specialized training usually related to specific jobs. It’s common for students to earn an associate degree at a community college then transfer to a university for a bachelor’s. Tech Prep programs give these students a free credit boost before they graduate from high school.
How much will it cost?
It depends. There are a lot of variables, including whether it’s a public or private school, a community college or a university, if a student lives on-campus or off-campus, the cost of transportation to and from school and parking, and how long it takes to complete the study program. Financial aid offices have information about ways to get help with the cost and the Tech Prep Site Coordinator at your school can tell you about earning free credit while you’re still in high school.
Am I ready?
You can be, with planning and preparation. Make sure to compare post-secondary school admission requirements with high school graduation requirements because they aren’t the same and take advantage of all the college prep help available through Tech Prep.
For more information about going to college visit the Regional College Access Center @ www.metedu.org/rcac
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