If traditional college isn’t for everyone, what’s the alternative?

Yesterday I posted an article: “Should Every Child Go To College?” The answer: It’s not for every child and parents shouldn’t push if it isn’t happening. You know your child better than anyone. Think outside the box and help your child find the right path.

Here are some other options beyond the traditional college path:

Community college

Many graduating seniors have decided to take the community college path. They made that choice for several reasons: cost, academic preparation, and the freedom to stay at home for the first few years. Community colleges aren’t just training grounds for technical careers, they are also the first stop for about 4 in 10 of college-bound high school graduates.

A gap year

More and more students are considering a gap year (or gap years) after high school. This time would be to explore career options, travel to discover yourself and gain cultural experience, volunteer for a year in a community service job or abroad, or work with the goal of saving money for college.

The military

While the military is not for everyone, it is a viable option for many students. Not only will you learn discipline, organization, and teamwork, but you will also gain job experience. The military has numerous career options to choose from that will transition into the workforce after your term of service is over. An added benefit is the education benefit veterans receive, allowing you to attend college using government funding.

Work and community college

Another option you might choose is working while attending community college. You can take as few courses as your time permits and ease into the college level courses. Working during community college also allows you to pay for college as you attend, avoiding large amounts of student loan debt.

Trade school or apprenticeship

The trades and/or apprenticeships are certainly overlooked as a path after college. Pursuing a trade ensures job security and future earning potential. You can go to a specific career school such as an art or fashion institute or a culinary institute, or you can work in with a professional learning their trade. Another option would be to consider a college that focuses not only on academics but also on hands on education. One such college is Pennsylvania College of Technology. You can read all about them in these series of articles.

Internships

Students can also work at paid or unpaid internships after high school. These internships will help you discover your interests and gain insight into various careers and what training or education you would need. Many employers offer paid education benefits while working and will often hire you as a full time employee after completion of the internship and/or education.

If your student seems unmotivated or uninterested in college have a serious discussion about his plans after high school. Make it clear that he needs a plan and help him formulate that plan. If they become part of the planning process and are involved in the decision making, they will be much happier with their choices.