Graduation is the end goal of practically every high school student. There are many options for a high school graduate, and choosing the right one can be difficult for some. The four most common paths are college, trade school, the military, and the workforce.

For students at MIA, students most commonly attend college after graduation. Receiving post-secondary education and potentially a degree is important in more specialized fields. If you are a motivated student and have a passion for a field requiring a degree, college is probably the best choice for you.

Trade school is a good option for students who are interested in a specialized element of the workforce, such as electrical or plumbing work. Some companies will pay for part or all of an employee’s trade school. For someone who is interested in a more blue collar job with a decent wage, trade school might be the way to go.

Serving our country in the military is a brave and noble action. For some, military service is an important aspect of their self identity. Understanding the commitment and potential sacrifice is incredibly important for people looking at any of 6 military branches. If this sounds interesting to you, talking to a recruiter for further tips and potential service might be the way to go.

Depending on your academic and financial situation, jumping directly into the workforce can be beneficial. For an individual who knows which job they want after graduation that they can secure without a degree, this might be the best option.

No matter what, making sure you are happy with your situation after graduation is important. It is the first step into your adult life.