How to Decide Whether College is the Right Choice for You
Article submitted by Eric Boston, Youth & College Coordinator.
Deciding what to do after high school can feel like one of the biggest choices of your life. Do you go to college, learn a trade, begin an apprenticeship, start a business, or head straight into the workforce? There are so many options and pathways that it can quickly become overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. If you take the time to gather information about your potential path and do some honest self-reflection, you can make an informed and confident decision.
A big part of making this decision should revolve around what you want to do for a career. Do you want to work in the medical field? Then you’ll likely need at least a certificate or degree from a college. Interested in sales? There are a few routes you can take, like starting with an entry-level job and working your way up or attending school to potentially start at a higher level. Thinking about a trade? That path also offers several options. Some employers provide apprenticeship programs or tuition reimbursement to help you earn the necessary certifications or degrees. You can also choose to attend school first and search for a job afterward. Not every career requires college, and some even offer to pay for your education to help you get where you want to go!
But what if you don’t yet know what you want to do? Start by asking yourself: What makes each day exciting for me? Then look into jobs that align with those interests. I encourage you to job shadow as many careers as possible—especially the ones that intrigue you and even the ones you think you might not like. You could shadow your dream job and realize the day-to-day isn’t a great fit, or you might discover an unexpected opportunity that’s perfect for you. Shadowing also helps you meet professionals who can guide you and connect you to resources or next steps.
When I was in high school, I was constantly asked what I wanted to do with my life after graduation. Most of the time, my answer was, “I don’t know.” And that’s okay! I realized I needed to do some self-discovery before I could seriously consider higher education or a trade, even if I didn’t quite know how to say that at the time. I made the decision late in my senior year that I wasn’t ready for school. I wanted to work, save money, and figure out who I was. I started working full-time at a car wash and, in the process, I learned how to own my personal development and grow in a way that worked for me. Eventually, I decided to keep working and continue building on that growth. It gave me the time and space I needed to understand myself better and learn how to connect with people from all walks of life. If I hadn’t gone through that journey, I wouldn’t have learned those things… and I know I would’ve spent a lot of money on school without the focus or energy to finish.
No matter where you are in your journey—whether you're confident in your career goals or still figuring out what lights you up—it’s important to remember that there’s no single “right” path after high school. What matters most is choosing the one that aligns with you, your passions, and your pace. Explore your options, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to try something new or change direction. Job shadow, talk to people in different industries, and be honest with yourself about what you enjoy and what you want to learn.
Feeling stuck or unsure? You’re not alone! Our Youth & College Support Team is here to help you navigate your next steps. Reach out anytime for guidance, resources, or even just someone to talk things through with. We’ve got your back!