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Is it the best option to get a job right after high school ends?
One of the things that have been on my mind for a little bit of time.
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10 answers
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Noah,
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your availability and circumstances. I began working when I was 15 and worked throughout high school and after, but it was because I had the time and capabilities of being able to get to my job that allowed that to happen. If you have the ability to work, I would suggest it, as any type of job will teach your skills that you can take with you to any job. It will also allow you to grow at a professional and personal level so you can become wiser, more effective at tasks you need to accomplish, and gives you experience that you can put on your resume.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your availability and circumstances. I began working when I was 15 and worked throughout high school and after, but it was because I had the time and capabilities of being able to get to my job that allowed that to happen. If you have the ability to work, I would suggest it, as any type of job will teach your skills that you can take with you to any job. It will also allow you to grow at a professional and personal level so you can become wiser, more effective at tasks you need to accomplish, and gives you experience that you can put on your resume.
Updated
Sheila’s Answer
Hi Noah:
Attending college directly after high school isn't for everyone. Some students are tired of school or never really enjoyed it in the first place. Others may want a break before they return to full-time education. And for some high school graduates, working instead of attending college is a monetary decision. Here are a few reasons why waiting on college can be a good idea.
EARN MONEY INSTEAD OF SPENDING IT
Unless you've been offered a full scholarship, going to college will cost you or your family money. And even if your schooling is paid for, you'll still need money for food, lodging, books, trips home, entertainment and more. Taking a year or two off to work and save money, especially if you're able to remain living for free with your parents, can be a very wise idea.
LEARN TO APPRECIATE SCHOOL
Most kids who finish up their 12 mandatory years of school are pretty sick of it by the time they graduate. While college is quite a different experience than high school, it still involves classrooms, books and even more studying. Taking a year or more to work can really help you value your college education. A year away from school can make the heart grow fonder of thinking and learning, especially if your job is tedious menial labor. The monotony of certain jobs tops the monotony of a classroom any day.
GAIN LIFE EXPERIENCE
College is a fairly sheltered environment. Often, you end up hanging around with the same types of people you knew in high school. Even if personalities vary, you will most likely find yourself in a group of people who are the same age as you, doing the same things you do every day. Work, on the other hand, can expose you to a wider range of people. The ages, socioeconomic backgrounds and hopes and dreams of your coworkers will be quite different than your own, and this is a good thing. It won't hurt to bring a bit more life knowledge to college, when you do decide to attend.
GAIN INDEPENDENCE
Earning your own money is a great way to learn how to manage it. And managing your own money is one of the first paths to independence. If you live on your own while you work, you'll gain even more life skills, including paying rent, paying utilities, buying your own groceries, gas and more.
PUT MORE THOUGHT INTO YOUR FUTURE CAREER
So many kids arrive at college and immediately have to decide on a major field of study. Most schools don't require you to choose a major until the end of your second year, but having a major from the start will help you to graduate on time and get the classes that you need. However, not many of us know what we want to study when we first arrive at college. Taking time off to work will also give you time to think. And if your job is washing dishes or busing tables, your brain will have a lot of free time to wander and consider career choices. You'll also have time to do a bit of research on different professions or maybe even secure a paid internship at a company to find out what type of work you'd like to do.
DECIDE IF SCHOOL IS THE RIGHT PATH FOR YOU
It's possible you'll like working so much more than being in school that you decide to forgo college altogether. I know the common mantra is you can't get a good job without a college degree, but that is changing a bit. Some companies offer apprenticeships, and some professions favor work experience much more than a degree. Besides, you can always change your mind later on and attend a university. College isn't going anywhere.
Best of luck to you!
Working After High School • https://work.chron.com/six-advantages-working-after-high-school-15907.html
Attending college directly after high school isn't for everyone. Some students are tired of school or never really enjoyed it in the first place. Others may want a break before they return to full-time education. And for some high school graduates, working instead of attending college is a monetary decision. Here are a few reasons why waiting on college can be a good idea.
EARN MONEY INSTEAD OF SPENDING IT
Unless you've been offered a full scholarship, going to college will cost you or your family money. And even if your schooling is paid for, you'll still need money for food, lodging, books, trips home, entertainment and more. Taking a year or two off to work and save money, especially if you're able to remain living for free with your parents, can be a very wise idea.
LEARN TO APPRECIATE SCHOOL
Most kids who finish up their 12 mandatory years of school are pretty sick of it by the time they graduate. While college is quite a different experience than high school, it still involves classrooms, books and even more studying. Taking a year or more to work can really help you value your college education. A year away from school can make the heart grow fonder of thinking and learning, especially if your job is tedious menial labor. The monotony of certain jobs tops the monotony of a classroom any day.
GAIN LIFE EXPERIENCE
College is a fairly sheltered environment. Often, you end up hanging around with the same types of people you knew in high school. Even if personalities vary, you will most likely find yourself in a group of people who are the same age as you, doing the same things you do every day. Work, on the other hand, can expose you to a wider range of people. The ages, socioeconomic backgrounds and hopes and dreams of your coworkers will be quite different than your own, and this is a good thing. It won't hurt to bring a bit more life knowledge to college, when you do decide to attend.
GAIN INDEPENDENCE
Earning your own money is a great way to learn how to manage it. And managing your own money is one of the first paths to independence. If you live on your own while you work, you'll gain even more life skills, including paying rent, paying utilities, buying your own groceries, gas and more.
PUT MORE THOUGHT INTO YOUR FUTURE CAREER
So many kids arrive at college and immediately have to decide on a major field of study. Most schools don't require you to choose a major until the end of your second year, but having a major from the start will help you to graduate on time and get the classes that you need. However, not many of us know what we want to study when we first arrive at college. Taking time off to work will also give you time to think. And if your job is washing dishes or busing tables, your brain will have a lot of free time to wander and consider career choices. You'll also have time to do a bit of research on different professions or maybe even secure a paid internship at a company to find out what type of work you'd like to do.
DECIDE IF SCHOOL IS THE RIGHT PATH FOR YOU
It's possible you'll like working so much more than being in school that you decide to forgo college altogether. I know the common mantra is you can't get a good job without a college degree, but that is changing a bit. Some companies offer apprenticeships, and some professions favor work experience much more than a degree. Besides, you can always change your mind later on and attend a university. College isn't going anywhere.
Best of luck to you!
Sheila recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Amber’s Answer
My best advice to this answer is to figure out what you are passionate about. I went to college right after high school, had a decent idea of what I wanted to do for a career, but changed my mind once I started working post college graduation. If you can start working for a company that offers tuition assistance, it may be best to work for a while and then start classes while working to help aid with funding your college education. If you know what you would like to do and know that it requires you to have your degree or an advanced degree (doctor, lawyer, etc) then I would start college right away. You can always do internships in the summer or a part time job while taking classes.
Updated
Moses’s Answer
The short answer, 100 %.
Its important to keep in mind that, yes , "gap years" are helpful to some ,but if you are sitting around moping and not actively seeking different opportunities that are beneficial to your future (which can be a broad array of endeavors),you are wasting your time. Simply finding a temporary job in the fast food industry as a simple means of income is a great way to build a foundation whilst you try to apply to colleges/universities. If school isn't for you, looking into trade schools where it is a more hands on environment is a good way to open up opportunities for the work force. Researching different jobs where a degree isn't required is an option you can also do whilst working or taking time away from school.
Its important to keep in mind that, yes , "gap years" are helpful to some ,but if you are sitting around moping and not actively seeking different opportunities that are beneficial to your future (which can be a broad array of endeavors),you are wasting your time. Simply finding a temporary job in the fast food industry as a simple means of income is a great way to build a foundation whilst you try to apply to colleges/universities. If school isn't for you, looking into trade schools where it is a more hands on environment is a good way to open up opportunities for the work force. Researching different jobs where a degree isn't required is an option you can also do whilst working or taking time away from school.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Noah!
Is it the best option to get a job right after high school ends?
Deciding whether to get a job immediately after high school or pursue further education is a significant choice that depends on various factors, including individual circumstances, career goals, financial considerations, and personal aspirations. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the considerations involved in making this decision.
1. Financial Considerations
One of the primary reasons students consider entering the workforce directly after high school is financial independence. Many graduates face student loan debt if they choose to attend college. According to the Federal Reserve, as of 2021, student loan debt in the United States exceeded $1.7 trillion. By opting for immediate employment, individuals can start earning money right away, which can help them avoid or minimize debt.
However, it is essential to evaluate the potential earnings from jobs available without a college degree versus those that require higher education. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates that individuals with only a high school diploma earn significantly less over their lifetimes compared to those with a bachelor’s degree—an average difference of about $1 million according to various studies.
2. Career Goals and Job Market Trends
The decision also hinges on one’s career aspirations. Some fields do not require a college degree and offer good salaries and growth opportunities; for example, skilled trades such as plumbing or electrical work often provide lucrative careers without requiring extensive formal education.
Conversely, many professions—especially in technology, healthcare, engineering, and business—typically require at least some level of post-secondary education for entry-level positions. The BLS projects that jobs requiring higher education will continue to grow faster than those that do not.
3. Personal Development and Skills Acquisition
Entering the workforce immediately may provide practical experience and skills development that are valuable in any career path. However, attending college can offer more than just academic knowledge; it provides networking opportunities, internships, and exposure to diverse ideas and cultures that can enhance personal growth.
Additionally, college often helps develop critical thinking skills and specialized knowledge that can be beneficial in many careers. For instance, research from Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce shows that individuals with degrees tend to have lower unemployment rates compared to those without degrees.
4. Alternative Options: Gap Year or Part-Time Work
Some students opt for a gap year before deciding whether to pursue higher education or enter the workforce full-time. This time can be used for travel, volunteering, or internships—experiences that can enrich one’s resume and clarify future goals.
Part-time work while attending college is another viable option for those who want both immediate income and educational advancement. This approach allows individuals to gain work experience while also pursuing their long-term career objectives through education.
5. Conclusion: Weighing Pros and Cons
Ultimately, whether getting a job right after high school is the best option depends on individual circumstances:
If financial independence is crucial and there are viable job opportunities available without further education.
If you have clear career goals aligned with immediate employment.
If you prefer gaining practical experience over academic learning at this stage in your life.
On the other hand:
If you aspire toward careers requiring advanced degrees.
If you want broader experiences that come from attending college.
If you are willing to invest time in education for potentially greater long-term benefits.
In summary, there is no one-size-fits-all answer; each individual’s situation should be carefully evaluated based on their goals and resources available.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - A government agency providing comprehensive data on employment trends across various sectors which helps inform decisions regarding job prospects based on educational attainment.
Federal Reserve - Offers insights into economic conditions including statistics related to student loan debt which impacts decisions about entering the workforce versus pursuing higher education.
Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce - Conducts research analyzing labor market outcomes based on educational attainment which aids in understanding long-term benefits associated with different educational paths.
Probability of correctness: 95%
God Bless You!
JC.
Is it the best option to get a job right after high school ends?
Deciding whether to get a job immediately after high school or pursue further education is a significant choice that depends on various factors, including individual circumstances, career goals, financial considerations, and personal aspirations. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the considerations involved in making this decision.
1. Financial Considerations
One of the primary reasons students consider entering the workforce directly after high school is financial independence. Many graduates face student loan debt if they choose to attend college. According to the Federal Reserve, as of 2021, student loan debt in the United States exceeded $1.7 trillion. By opting for immediate employment, individuals can start earning money right away, which can help them avoid or minimize debt.
However, it is essential to evaluate the potential earnings from jobs available without a college degree versus those that require higher education. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates that individuals with only a high school diploma earn significantly less over their lifetimes compared to those with a bachelor’s degree—an average difference of about $1 million according to various studies.
2. Career Goals and Job Market Trends
The decision also hinges on one’s career aspirations. Some fields do not require a college degree and offer good salaries and growth opportunities; for example, skilled trades such as plumbing or electrical work often provide lucrative careers without requiring extensive formal education.
Conversely, many professions—especially in technology, healthcare, engineering, and business—typically require at least some level of post-secondary education for entry-level positions. The BLS projects that jobs requiring higher education will continue to grow faster than those that do not.
3. Personal Development and Skills Acquisition
Entering the workforce immediately may provide practical experience and skills development that are valuable in any career path. However, attending college can offer more than just academic knowledge; it provides networking opportunities, internships, and exposure to diverse ideas and cultures that can enhance personal growth.
Additionally, college often helps develop critical thinking skills and specialized knowledge that can be beneficial in many careers. For instance, research from Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce shows that individuals with degrees tend to have lower unemployment rates compared to those without degrees.
4. Alternative Options: Gap Year or Part-Time Work
Some students opt for a gap year before deciding whether to pursue higher education or enter the workforce full-time. This time can be used for travel, volunteering, or internships—experiences that can enrich one’s resume and clarify future goals.
Part-time work while attending college is another viable option for those who want both immediate income and educational advancement. This approach allows individuals to gain work experience while also pursuing their long-term career objectives through education.
5. Conclusion: Weighing Pros and Cons
Ultimately, whether getting a job right after high school is the best option depends on individual circumstances:
If financial independence is crucial and there are viable job opportunities available without further education.
If you have clear career goals aligned with immediate employment.
If you prefer gaining practical experience over academic learning at this stage in your life.
On the other hand:
If you aspire toward careers requiring advanced degrees.
If you want broader experiences that come from attending college.
If you are willing to invest time in education for potentially greater long-term benefits.
In summary, there is no one-size-fits-all answer; each individual’s situation should be carefully evaluated based on their goals and resources available.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - A government agency providing comprehensive data on employment trends across various sectors which helps inform decisions regarding job prospects based on educational attainment.
Federal Reserve - Offers insights into economic conditions including statistics related to student loan debt which impacts decisions about entering the workforce versus pursuing higher education.
Georgetown University Center on Education and the Workforce - Conducts research analyzing labor market outcomes based on educational attainment which aids in understanding long-term benefits associated with different educational paths.
Probability of correctness: 95%
God Bless You!
JC.
Todd Shilling, PhD, NRP
Paramedic, Safety/HSE, Graduate education
5
Answers
Updated
Todd’s Answer
There are many options, dependent on your location, but it really depends on what you want or are willing to do. You can always find a spot in fast food or similar, while not glamorous, its a paycheck and will give you a work history to help with finding your next job. If your parents, have friends that own companies, maybe they would have an entry-level position you could fill. As long as you are willing to put away personal pride keep your mouth shut and ears open and work hard, there are many options. Maybe not the job you "want" but a job is better than no job when you're young and trying to get started.
Updated
Vitus’s Answer
Hey Noah!
This is a great question. An interesting way to answer this is - "do the benefits outweigh the cons if I we're to get a job?" "What do I have to lose?"
This is a great question. An interesting way to answer this is - "do the benefits outweigh the cons if I we're to get a job?" "What do I have to lose?"
Updated
Chirayu’s Answer
Getting a job right after high school can be a good option for some students, depending on their individual goals and circumstances. Here are some factors to consider:
Pros:
Earning money: Getting a job right after high school can provide you with a source of income that can help you save for college, pay for living expenses, or start building your financial independence. Gaining work experience: Working can help you develop valuable skills such as teamwork, communication, time management, and problem-solving, which can be useful in your future career. Exploring career options: Getting a job can give you the opportunity to explore different career fields and gain insight into your interests and goals.
Cons:
Limited job opportunities: Without a college degree or specialized skills, job opportunities may be limited, and you may have to settle for low-paying jobs with limited growth potential. Lower lifetime earnings: Studies have shown that individuals with college degrees typically earn more over their lifetimes than those without degrees. Delayed career advancement: Without a college degree, it may be more difficult to advance in your career or move into higher-paying positions. Ultimately, the decision to get a job after high school depends on your individual goals and circumstances. If you're not sure what you want to do in the long term or if you're considering college in the future, it may be beneficial to take a gap year to explore your interests, gain new experiences, and save money. If you have a clear career path in mind or if you're not interested in pursuing a college degree, getting a job right after high school may be a good option for you.
Pros:
Earning money: Getting a job right after high school can provide you with a source of income that can help you save for college, pay for living expenses, or start building your financial independence. Gaining work experience: Working can help you develop valuable skills such as teamwork, communication, time management, and problem-solving, which can be useful in your future career. Exploring career options: Getting a job can give you the opportunity to explore different career fields and gain insight into your interests and goals.
Cons:
Limited job opportunities: Without a college degree or specialized skills, job opportunities may be limited, and you may have to settle for low-paying jobs with limited growth potential. Lower lifetime earnings: Studies have shown that individuals with college degrees typically earn more over their lifetimes than those without degrees. Delayed career advancement: Without a college degree, it may be more difficult to advance in your career or move into higher-paying positions. Ultimately, the decision to get a job after high school depends on your individual goals and circumstances. If you're not sure what you want to do in the long term or if you're considering college in the future, it may be beneficial to take a gap year to explore your interests, gain new experiences, and save money. If you have a clear career path in mind or if you're not interested in pursuing a college degree, getting a job right after high school may be a good option for you.
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
Why not? It's never too early to start earning money, saving for retirement, building up your portfolio of skills and experience, making contacts, etc.
Work and college and fun are not mutually exclusive. You can get a full time job right out of high school and have plenty of fun while taking one or two college courses a semester. Or you can work part time and have a few more hours a week for school or fun or both.
If you are asking this question because after being in school for 18 years the thought of spending another four doing more of the same sounds awful, consider the skilled trades (carpenter, electrician, plumber, mason, etc.) There's a shortage of skilled workers out there and there are plenty of opportunities right now to work and make money while learning a highly in demand skill and making as much or more as a college graduate. You can always go to college later and earn your degree in Construction Management, or Civil Engineering, or Theater Technology, or Business.
Ultimately, my advice is don't limit yourself. What you do at 18 does not dictate what you will do for the rest of your life. As you learn more about the world and more about yourself and grow as a person your goals and interests will change and should always remain open to new opportunities for growth and advancement as they present themselves. 40 years ago, there were no such things as Influencers or Twitch Streamers or EV repair techs or Internet Cafe owners. Keep growing, keep learning, and keep an open mind and you'll be fine.
Work and college and fun are not mutually exclusive. You can get a full time job right out of high school and have plenty of fun while taking one or two college courses a semester. Or you can work part time and have a few more hours a week for school or fun or both.
If you are asking this question because after being in school for 18 years the thought of spending another four doing more of the same sounds awful, consider the skilled trades (carpenter, electrician, plumber, mason, etc.) There's a shortage of skilled workers out there and there are plenty of opportunities right now to work and make money while learning a highly in demand skill and making as much or more as a college graduate. You can always go to college later and earn your degree in Construction Management, or Civil Engineering, or Theater Technology, or Business.
Ultimately, my advice is don't limit yourself. What you do at 18 does not dictate what you will do for the rest of your life. As you learn more about the world and more about yourself and grow as a person your goals and interests will change and should always remain open to new opportunities for growth and advancement as they present themselves. 40 years ago, there were no such things as Influencers or Twitch Streamers or EV repair techs or Internet Cafe owners. Keep growing, keep learning, and keep an open mind and you'll be fine.
Updated
Jeanne’s Answer
It all depends what you want to do for a career. If you choose a career that requires a degree college would be a good first step. You can get your first 2 years of college free in California. If you are interested in careers that don't require a degree then investigate what certifications are needed.