If Not College... Then What?

By Zoe B.

Senior year comes, and the famous “what are you going to do after high school” question is the center of every family reunion. For those who know exactly what they want to do, this is an opportunity to talk all about it, but for those who are not sure, the priority is figuring out how to shift the conversation away from that topic as soon as possible.

As soon as people learn of your uncertainty, opinions will come pouring in. While at times they can be useful, most people will suggest going to college, even if you do not know what field you want to enter. Nevertheless, college is a big commitment, and may not be the right path for everyone. Therefore, if you are not sure what path you want to take, let this serve as a guide to you.

There are six main categories when it comes to paths after high school: four-year schooling, two-year schooling, military, trades, workforce, and gap year. All of them are valid and lead to different career outcomes. Four-year schooling refers to traditional colleges, either public or private, where one chooses a major and graduates with a degree in that major. It is a popular route, but can be very expensive, especially if it is a private college. There is nothing wrong with going to college, but it is very important to do the proper research before committing to it. If you go to college, it should be because you know what field you want to go into, and you need a college degree to pursue it. If you are not sure what you want to do, you are likely better off with any of the other options.

The other path that involves school is a community college or technical college, which offers associate degrees and certifications. Community college is a great choice for someone not quite sure what major they want to pursue or someone who wants to get their general education requirements done at a lower cost before transferring to a four-year college to earn a bachelor’s degree.

For those who do not want to do any more schooling, or who cannot afford to get any schooling, there are options that are much less expensive and a faster way to a paycheck. These are the military, trades, and the workforce. These three options provide the opportunity to earn money quickly compared to any option that involves extensive schooling or a degree.

Now, if you are looking at all these options and none of them stand out, some people have the option of taking a gap year. During this time, you could get a part-time job, start your own business, volunteer, or try to figure out what it is you want to spend your life doing.

No matter which of these options you choose, it is important that you choose them because you want to do them, not because you feel obligated to. It is your life, and you will be the one who has to live with the decisions you make, so do not let yourself be influenced into taking a path you know is not for you.

Zoe B. lives in Argentina with her parents and one of her two brothers. This is her fourth and last year at NorthStar Academy, as she's currently a senior. This is her second year in the Navigator and in Student Council, where she currently holds the position of Vice President. In her free time, she enjoys going to the gym, reading, baking, and watching Formula 1.

🔎InformationalEIC NSA2025-2026, February 2026 Publication