By Staff
Graduation is only four months away and there are a lot of seniors who will soon become adults, myself included. In this article I will discuss the many education options and also weigh the pros and cons of them. Some options include community college, trade school or a 4 year college. Getting a job is also a good idea for anyone who is transitioning into adulthood after high school.
Being able to have a responsibility that keeps you busy as well as creating a financial structure for your future self is very important. Saving money at a young age can teach you how to be financially independent and allows you to make smarter money decisions. In my own experience, having a job is a healthy distraction for me. I’ve learned many new skills from working at a restaurant as a hostess, including better communication, working well under pressure, problem solving, professionalism, and not taking things too seriously. Having a job is necessary to live when you become an adult even though most people dislike working. When you start living on your own you will realize that nearly everything costs money. Also, having some money in your pocket is always nice to treat yourself and go out every once in a while. Having such a strong responsibility can prepare you for other responsibilities you may obtain, such as a college education.
On another note, community college can be a more affordable option compared to four year colleges which can get very expensive. $1,510 is the cost of California tuition for the average community college in California. The average cost of a regular in-state college tuition is $19,806. The differences in cost are an issue for many people which is why community college can be a better path. Also, it’s common for people to work at the same time as they are attending college. Another reason for the importance of community college is it can help you while you are still deciding which subjects you want to pursue and learn more about.
Similar to college, trade school can be a good route for some. The average cost is $17,600, which is a little cheaper than a college, depending on the area you choose to stay in. Since trade school is a specialized program there’s no need for a core curriculum, so you will only attend classes relevant to your field of study. There is a faster graduation timeline, it prepares you for in-demand careers, and it gives you real world experience and job assistance.
Lastly, a four year college gives you a greater chance of socializing since they offer more networking opportunities than other colleges. The education is also more beneficial because you will be getting a well rounded education including your major during your college years. Each four year college is different, which allows you to choose the one that fits you.
No matter the option you pick, just remember that it is your decision to make and you shouldn’t feel pressured to choose anything from others. At the end of the day, you are the one who controls your life and you can create your ideal future for yourself.
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