7 answers
Angie
Student
1
Question
Asked
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Where do I start ?
What could I do to start my career after I get my GED? Am I able to go to college if I get it still ? Will I be able to build a career still if I’m 19 and barely getting my plans together ?
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7 answers
Moises Quiteno
Consulting Intern
12
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Moises’s Answer
Absolutely, you can pursue college even with a GED! A GED holds the same value as a high school diploma, so don't worry about it being seen as less. Many individuals opt for a GED due to personal circumstances or because traditional high school just didn't fit their needs.
You can definitely apply to a university with a GED. The important thing isn't when you start, but that you start. Your career can flourish no matter when you begin. There are countless stories of people who've successfully built careers later in life or took some time to discover their true passions. If you need time to figure out your path, that's perfectly okay. It's always better to take your time and plan, rather than rushing into something without a clear direction.
You can definitely apply to a university with a GED. The important thing isn't when you start, but that you start. Your career can flourish no matter when you begin. There are countless stories of people who've successfully built careers later in life or took some time to discover their true passions. If you need time to figure out your path, that's perfectly okay. It's always better to take your time and plan, rather than rushing into something without a clear direction.
Thank you so much I appreciate it.
Angie
Jennifer Lygren-Snyder
Medical Laboratory Scientist
30
Answers
Kansas City, Missouri
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
At 19, you're perfectly positioned to start mapping out your life's journey. Are you considering college, trade school, or diving straight into the workforce? Uncertain about your future career? That's perfectly fine. If college is on your mind, starting at a community college is a great first step. Make an appointment with a counselor. They can provide you with valuable evaluation tests that can help identify your skills and passions, guiding you towards a suitable path. This method was incredibly beneficial for me. Remember, it's entirely possible to balance work and education. Don't pressure yourself to conform to someone else's timeline for life.
Cindy McAllister
retired Guidance Counselor
12
Answers
Syracuse, New York
Updated
Cindy’s Answer
I would set up an appointment with your local community college. Call their admission's office. They can help you figure out your path.
Thank you so much for the advice.
Angie
Jason Flint
Crisis Response and Workplace Experience
51
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Jason’s Answer
Hi Angie,
It really depends on your interests. In some cases, it may make sense to start work early and get some experience that you can add to your application for a 4-year college. You could also start off in a community college, trade school, certificate programs or take online courses that will help your application for larger schools. The important thing is that you make map out a long-term plan taking into account any life changes, financial aid, etc. so you set yourself up for success.
It really depends on your interests. In some cases, it may make sense to start work early and get some experience that you can add to your application for a 4-year college. You could also start off in a community college, trade school, certificate programs or take online courses that will help your application for larger schools. The important thing is that you make map out a long-term plan taking into account any life changes, financial aid, etc. so you set yourself up for success.
Thank you so much, Jason!
Angie
Cindy Jay
Supply Planner
1
Answer
Georgetown, Texas
Updated
Cindy’s Answer
Hi Angie,
Great question! It can be daunting to try and decide your whole life plan up front. Seeking advice from a guidance counselor is a great start and can help you decide what your passion is. Sometimes you know right away what that is and other times, it can just fall into your lap. Keeping an open mind when you are deciding what you want to do for the rest of your life is key.
I worked at a Fortune 500 company for 16 years without a college degree. I did get my degree at age 40 and have never regretted how things happened. You just need to take the time to figure out what you like to do and how you can turn that into a career and remember, good things come to those who wait. Do not get discouraged if you don't find your dream job right off the bat. Consider taking a "lower" position to allow yourself time to learn the job and to show what you are capable of.
Best of luck in your next steps!!
Great question! It can be daunting to try and decide your whole life plan up front. Seeking advice from a guidance counselor is a great start and can help you decide what your passion is. Sometimes you know right away what that is and other times, it can just fall into your lap. Keeping an open mind when you are deciding what you want to do for the rest of your life is key.
I worked at a Fortune 500 company for 16 years without a college degree. I did get my degree at age 40 and have never regretted how things happened. You just need to take the time to figure out what you like to do and how you can turn that into a career and remember, good things come to those who wait. Do not get discouraged if you don't find your dream job right off the bat. Consider taking a "lower" position to allow yourself time to learn the job and to show what you are capable of.
Best of luck in your next steps!!
Steph Beasley
Manager, Renewals
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Steph’s Answer
What I want to tell you is that you have plenty of time. You will find that in the real world that most people will not care how or when you accomplished certain milestones in your life, and everyone is on a different path.
I think that the recommendations to get in touch with a community college advisor is so great. They'll be able to help you figure out how to get some of the basic courses under your belt and also show you a wide range of career paths and vocations that you may be interested in across lots of different professions.
I think that the recommendations to get in touch with a community college advisor is so great. They'll be able to help you figure out how to get some of the basic courses under your belt and also show you a wide range of career paths and vocations that you may be interested in across lots of different professions.
AAMIR PENKAR
Business Ops
6
Answers
Round Rock, Texas
Updated
AAMIR’s Answer
Hi Angie,
You've just asked one of the most vital questions in the early stages of life, and I commend you for that. As you've probably noticed from the responses, there are several ways for you to seek higher education by way of community colleges and Universities (in-person or online).
It's crucial to take some time to reflect on who you are - your interests, your circumstances, and your aspirations. I've had the privilege of knowing a diverse group of individuals, from those with PhDs, Master's, and Bachelor's degrees, to those with associate degrees, and even those who've chosen the path of self-learning, particularly in fields like technology and sales.
Moreover, I've met a significant number of people who opted for a trade school path and are now thriving in their lives.
Before embarking on any path, I encourage you to assess your current situation and consider which route would most likely lead you to success. If your aim is financial stability and a fulfilling family life, some paths might be more straightforward than others.
In essence, ensure that your choice of higher education aligns with your goals, interests, and abilities. For instance, if you aspire to be a master plumber, run your own small business, and manage a team of plumbers, you'll likely enjoy a comfortable income, lower stress levels, and career stability, compared to if you were to earn a degree without a clear plan.
Remember, it's often more effective to take smaller, steady steps towards your life goals rather than attempting giant leaps. You could start with a job that provides some income while you're attending community college, then evaluate the benefits of a bachelor's or higher degree before pursuing it. Alternatively, a trade might be a more fitting and comfortable path for you.
Seeking advice from a guidance counselor is always a good idea, and it's an easily accessible resource for you. But remember to keep your mind open to all possibilities. Best of luck!
You've just asked one of the most vital questions in the early stages of life, and I commend you for that. As you've probably noticed from the responses, there are several ways for you to seek higher education by way of community colleges and Universities (in-person or online).
It's crucial to take some time to reflect on who you are - your interests, your circumstances, and your aspirations. I've had the privilege of knowing a diverse group of individuals, from those with PhDs, Master's, and Bachelor's degrees, to those with associate degrees, and even those who've chosen the path of self-learning, particularly in fields like technology and sales.
Moreover, I've met a significant number of people who opted for a trade school path and are now thriving in their lives.
Before embarking on any path, I encourage you to assess your current situation and consider which route would most likely lead you to success. If your aim is financial stability and a fulfilling family life, some paths might be more straightforward than others.
In essence, ensure that your choice of higher education aligns with your goals, interests, and abilities. For instance, if you aspire to be a master plumber, run your own small business, and manage a team of plumbers, you'll likely enjoy a comfortable income, lower stress levels, and career stability, compared to if you were to earn a degree without a clear plan.
Remember, it's often more effective to take smaller, steady steps towards your life goals rather than attempting giant leaps. You could start with a job that provides some income while you're attending community college, then evaluate the benefits of a bachelor's or higher degree before pursuing it. Alternatively, a trade might be a more fitting and comfortable path for you.
Seeking advice from a guidance counselor is always a good idea, and it's an easily accessible resource for you. But remember to keep your mind open to all possibilities. Best of luck!
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Angie