Why College Is Not The Only Option After High School: 4 Alternatives To College

Many students go to college after high school out of their desire to meet the expectations of their family, friends and the society. However, college is not the best option for every student. Post-high school education and training are important but parents and educators need to inform students that there are different alternatives to college.

"The idea that after high school you go to 'college' disregards the interests of, and who our young people really are," North Central Michigan College's Corporate and Community Education director, Jim Tisdel, shared with Petoskey News. All students have different likes, needs, interests, passion and priorities.

Forcing them to choose college as the only option after high school might hinder them from reaching their full potential. Quint Careers shared some of the alternatives to college after finishing high school:

1. Learning a trade.

#Beverley teen achieves #apprenticeship goal with employer Contrac. Well done Andrew. https://t.co/X5Xk62gjK1 pic.twitter.com/phJa4VSY6r

— TIR Training (@TIRLogistics) November 14, 2014

Apprenticeship is one of the best alternatives to college. "Apprenticeships, at one time, were the only way for young people to get a foot in the door to their careers," Quint Careers explained. "For example, one high-school graduate worked for a pool construction company for several years, learning every aspect of the business before earning her swimming pool contractors license and starting her own business."

2. Volunteer work

Want to get paid to volunteer? Work for a company that gives you time off to give back! https://t.co/0wJuzuN8Fg pic.twitter.com/gWv5dQkYHJ — vInspired (@vinspired) March 23, 2016

There are many programs that offer teens an opportunity to make a difference for the society. These programs include the Peace Corps, Americorps and the Student Conservation Association, which offers a job and internship program for students who are 18 and above.

Some teens who are passionate about religion and spirituality go to seminaries, theology courses and missionary work after high school. Students should be encouraged to pursue what they really love instead of telling them to play it safe and do what everyone else does.

3. Vocational school

Detroit makes community college free https://t.co/Gn93xjG6Tu pic.twitter.com/hy7LVQ1Rst

— White House Af-Am Ed (@AfAmEducation) March 25, 2016

Vocational schools and community colleges provide a cheaper way to hone your skills, pursue your interests and prepare you for the future. "You can either take a few classes, follow a diploma or certification track, or advance toward your associate's degree," Quint Careers shared.

4. Joining the military

Latin I students read stories about the eruption of Vesuvius, drew the action, & translated them #hmaclassroom pic.twitter.com/qyuMIXMQ4o — Hargrave Military (@MilitarySchool) March 18, 2016

Joining the military is one of the noblest alternatives to college. It is ideal for students with a great sense of patriotism and passion for service. Joining the military helps you become more disciplined, create a lifelong career in military service and help you save money for a college course in the future.