Comparing Your Four Pathways

Not sure which path is right for you? Here's a quick comparison to help you decide. Remember: these are national averages and can vary significantly based on location, specific field, school, and individual circumstances.

Pathway Total Cost Duration Avg. Starting Salary Job Placement
4-Year College $120,000–$200,000+ 4 years $45,000–$60,000 ~70%
Community College $7,000–$12,000/yr 2 years + transfer $35,000–$50,000 ~75%
Trade School $5,000–$25,000 6 months–2 years $40,000–$70,000 ~90%
Military Service $0 (paid salary) 2–6 years active $35,000–$50,000+ ~95%
Direct Workforce $0 Start immediately $28,000–$40,000 Variable

Key Terms & Concepts Explained

Senior year comes with new terminology. Here's a simple glossary so you understand what people are talking about:

College & Education Terms
  • Dual Credit / Co-enrollment: Taking college courses while still in high school. You earn college credits that transfer when you enroll. Saves time AND money.
  • FERPA: Federal law protecting student privacy. Once you're a college student, parents need written permission to access your records.
  • GPA: Grade Point Average. Calculated from your course grades. Important for college admissions and scholarships.
  • Transcript: Official record of all your courses and grades from high school. You'll need official copies sent to colleges, trade schools, or military.
Financial Aid Terms
  • FAFSA: Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The form that opens the door to grants, loans, and most scholarships. It's completely free.
  • Grants: Free money based on financial need. You don't repay grants. Federal Pell Grants are the most common.
  • Scholarships: Free money (merit-based, need-based, or competitive). You don't repay. Often have specific requirements or deadlines.
  • CSS Profile: Additional form required by some colleges for need-based aid. More detailed than FAFSA. Required by roughly 200 colleges.
  • Work-Study: Part-time job on or near campus where you earn money while studying. Helps pay for college costs.
  • Federal Loans: Money you borrow from the government and repay after graduation with interest. Protected with income-driven repayment options.
Testing & Academic Terms
  • SAT: Standardized test used for college admissions. Tests reading, writing, and math. Score: 400–1600.
  • ACT: Alternative standardized test for college admissions. Tests English, math, reading, and science. Score: 1–36.
  • ASVAB: Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery. Determines which military jobs you qualify for. Not for college admissions.
  • TSIA 2: Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2. College placement test (NOT admissions). Determines your math and reading course level AFTER admitted.
Military Terms
  • Active Duty: Full-time military service. Employed by the military with comprehensive training, salary, benefits, and career progression.
  • Reserve: Part-time military service. Attend training periodically; can be called to active duty if needed. Work or study simultaneously.
  • National Guard: Similar to Reserve but under state/federal control. Responds to emergencies and disasters in addition to national defense.
  • GI Bill: Educational benefit providing tuition coverage and stipends for veterans pursuing college or trade training after service.
Trade & Career Terms
  • Certification: Official credential proving you have specific skills or knowledge in a trade. Required for many skilled jobs.
  • Apprenticeship: On-the-job training program where you earn while learning a trade under a mentor. Usually lasts 1–4 years.
  • Accreditation: Official approval showing a school meets quality standards. Always choose accredited programs.
  • Job Placement Rate: Percentage of graduates who find jobs in their field within 6 months of graduation. Higher is better.

Preparation: Senior Year Foundation

Senior year is when it all comes together. Focus on academics, build your professional foundation, and start executing your post-secondary plan. Here's what to prioritize:

Maintain Strong Academics Through Senior Year

Colleges, trade schools, military, and employers all review your senior year grades. Finish strong—your final transcript matters.

  • Take all required senior year courses to meet graduation requirements
  • Enroll in advanced coursework if applicable to your pathway
  • Maintain strong attendance and class participation
  • Keep your GPA competitive through graduation
Build Your Professional Foundation Now

The groundwork you lay in senior year will support every pathway ahead. These items are essential for colleges, scholarships, military applications, and employers.

  • Create a professional personal email address (your school email ends after graduation)
  • Develop your resume with academics, work experience, and skills
  • Build your school profile understanding
  • Request letters of recommendation from teachers and mentors
Know Your Path & Start Your Applications

Whether college, military, trade school, or workforce, senior year is when applications and planning become urgent.

  • Research options aligned with your interests and strengths
  • Understand deadlines for college applications and other pathways
  • Start college essays and application work in fall
  • Meet with military recruiters or trade school advisors early
Standardized Testing (If Applicable)

If you're considering college, standardized testing happens in senior year or was completed in junior year.

  • Complete SAT or ACT if not already done
  • Retake if you want to improve your score (early fall before college deadlines)
  • Explore free or low-cost test prep resources
  • Request score reports be sent to your schools
Complete Your 4-Year Plan

Your 4-Year Plan document shows your academic path, extracurricular activities, and post-secondary preparation throughout high school.

  • Update your 4-Year Plan with senior year courses and activities
  • Use this as reference for applications and college essays
  • Share with counselors and mentors for feedback and guidance

Summer Before Senior Year

This summer is a critical window before the intensity of senior year. Use it strategically to prepare yourself and your applications.

For the College Pathway
  • Take final SAT/ACT if you need to improve your score
  • Research and visit colleges you're interested in
  • Connect with college counselors and ask questions
  • Request letters of recommendation from teachers if you haven't already
  • Start your resume and begin brainstorming essays
  • Attend summer programs or camps at colleges if possible
For the Military Pathway
  • Research different military branches and career specialties
  • Connect with military recruiters in your area
  • Understand ASVAB testing and what to expect
  • Start physical fitness training if needed
  • Ask questions about enlistment bonuses and guarantees
For the Trade School Pathway
  • Research trade school programs and schools in your region
  • Visit technical schools and meet instructors
  • Talk to people working in trades you're considering
  • Understand tuition costs and financial aid eligibility
  • Gain hands-on experience (volunteer, apprenticeship exploration, or shadowing)
For the Workforce Pathway
  • Work a summer job or explore different industries
  • Build your resume and refine your professional email
  • Explore entry-level jobs in fields that interest you
  • Develop soft skills (customer service, teamwork, communication)
  • Network with professionals in your target field
Universal Summer Priorities
  • Create a professional personal email if you haven't already (not your school email)
  • Request letters of recommendation if you haven't already. Ask teachers, counselors, coaches, or employers who know your work well. Give them at least 2 weeks notice and provide context about where you're applying.
  • Build your application profile understanding who you are academically, what your interests are, your leadership roles, and your unique perspective
  • Build your resume with all your accomplishments, skills, and experience
  • Set up profiles (LinkedIn, college portals, military information sites)
  • Rest and reflect — Don't burn out. Use time to think about what you learned about yourself

Graduation Requirements & Senior Year Timeline

Before exploring post-secondary options, ensure you're on track to graduate. Meet with your school counselor to verify all requirements are complete.

Know Yourself First

Understanding your strengths and interests is the foundation of your post-secondary planning. Take career interest inventories to identify what energizes you and aligns with your goals.

  • Complete career interest inventories (Myers-Briggs, STRONG, CliftonStrengths)
  • Identify academic strengths and challenge areas
  • Document work experience and skills
  • Track extracurricular involvement and leadership roles
Build Your Professional Foundation

The groundwork you lay now will support every pathway ahead. These items are essential for colleges, scholarships, military applications, and employers.

  • Create a professional personal email address (your school email ends after graduation)
  • Develop your resume with academics, work experience, and skills
  • Build your school profile understanding
  • Maintain your GPA through senior year

Senior Year Timeline

Fall Semester (August - November)
  • Enroll in all required senior year courses and verify graduation requirements
  • Take career interest inventories and meet with counselor
  • Start college/university research and applications (if college pathway)
  • Request letters of recommendation from teachers
  • Create professional personal email address
  • Begin standardized testing prep (SAT/ACT) if needed
  • Meet with military recruiters (if military pathway)
  • Research trade school programs and certifications (if trade school pathway)
  • Start job applications (if workforce pathway)
Early Winter (December - January)
  • Submit college applications before deadlines
  • Complete FAFSA (opens October 1, complete by January for best aid)
  • Register for last standardized testing administration if needed
  • Finalize military service branch and processing dates
  • Submit trade school applications and financial aid forms
  • Continue job applications and schedule interviews
Late Winter (February - March)
  • Review college acceptance letters and financial aid packages
  • Complete CSS Profile if required by colleges
  • Begin cap and gown ordering process
  • Attend admitted student days and college visits
  • Confirm trade school enrollment and start dates
  • Finalize military enlistment paperwork and shipping dates
  • Secure job offer and start date confirmation
  • Check that all graduation requirements are on track
Spring Semester (April - May)
  • Complete cap and gown order (typically due by mid-April)
  • Finalize college choice and submit enrollment deposit
  • Confirm housing arrangements for college
  • Purchase required textbooks or materials for next pathway
  • Set up college email and portal accounts
  • Attend graduation rehearsal
  • Prepare for graduation ceremony
  • Maintain grades through the end of senior year
Graduation & Beyond (June)
  • Attend graduation ceremony in cap and gown
  • Request official transcripts for college/trade school/military
  • Transition official documents to your personal email
  • Begin your post-secondary pathway (college, military, trade school, or work)
  • Stay connected with teachers and counselors for future reference letters

🎂 Turning 18: Legal Rights & Preparation

When your student turns 18, they are legally recognized as an adult, and parents immediately lose automatic rights to access medical records, speak with doctors, make healthcare decisions in an emergency, or manage finances without written consent.

Many families are surprised by this during a crisis when clarity and access matter most. Preparing ahead of time with the proper legal documents ensures you can step in to support your young adult if a life-threatening or urgent situation arises.

You can save 20% on essential legal forms, including a Medical Power of Attorney, HIPAA Authorization, and Durable Power of Attorney using this link: Mama Bear Legal Forms

Taking this simple step provides peace of mind and keeps you empowered to help when it truly counts.

College Pathway

Explore four-year universities and community colleges. The college path involves applications, standardized testing, and financial aid planning.

Application Process

Most students start research in junior year. Key deadlines occur in fall and winter of senior year.

  • Research colleges that match your academic fit, size, and interests
  • Choose application platform (Common App, Coalition, or school-specific)
  • Decide on Admission Options (Regular, Early Action, or Early Decision)
  • Request letters of recommendation from teachers
  • Complete essays and submit applications
Standardized Testing

Most colleges accept either the SAT or ACT for admission. Plan to test in junior year and early senior year.

  • SAT — Measures Evidence-Based Reading/Writing and Math. Score range: 400-1600. Used for college admissions decisions.
  • ACT — Tests English, Math, Reading, and Science. Score range: 1-36. Used for college admissions decisions.
  • Performance Acknowledgement — An optional tool that allows you to provide context to colleges about personal challenges or hardships that may have affected your test performance.
  • TSIA 2 — A separate Texas placement exam used by Texas public colleges to determine math and reading course levels AFTER you're admitted. This is not used for admissions decisions.
Alternative Pathways

Consider these options to reduce cost and get ahead on your degree.

  • Community College — Start with 2 years at lower cost (~$3,800/year), then transfer to a 4-year university.
  • Dual Credit Programs — Earn college credit while still in high school. Texas OnRamps and co-enrollment options available.

⚠️ Critical: Maintain Your Grades After Acceptance

Your college acceptance is NOT final until you graduate high school and enroll. Colleges can rescind (withdraw) acceptance offers if there are significant changes between your application and graduation.

What can trigger rescission:

  • Significant drop in grades or GPA
  • Failing a class (especially required courses)
  • Not taking classes you listed on your application
  • Disciplinary issues or conduct violations
  • Misrepresenting information on your application

What to do: Maintain your current level of academic performance through graduation. If something changes, contact your college's admissions office immediately to discuss it honestly.

📋 FERPA for Dual Credit & College

When students enroll in dual credit courses or attend college, they become college students in the eyes of the institution, which means federal privacy laws immediately apply to their records. FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) protects student privacy, but it also means parents lose automatic access to grades, schedules, billing statements, and financial records unless the student grants permission.

Completing the FERPA authorization form is essential because it allows students to give their parents permission to access important educational information. Families are often surprised to learn that they cannot call the college to ask about a balance, a missing assignment, financial aid questions, or a transcript issue unless this form is on file.

Taking a few minutes to complete the FERPA authorization at the start of dual credit enrollment or college attendance ensures parents can stay informed, support their student, and help navigate any issues that may arise.

♿ Access Office & Accommodations

A College Access Office, often called Disability Services or Student Accessibility Services, is the department responsible for coordinating accommodations for students with documented learning differences, medical conditions, or disabilities after high school graduation.

Important: This office does not automatically receive IEP or 504 information. Students must contact the Access Office directly, submit documentation, and request accommodations themselves.

Learning how to work with this office before graduation builds confidence, independence, and ensures support is ready on the first day of college classes. Families should locate the Access Office on each college website during the application process to understand documentation requirements and procedures early.

🎓 Students with Learning Differences

Students with learning differences can thrive in college with early planning, strong self-advocacy skills, and the right supports in place. High school is the time to understand personal accommodations, practice communicating needs, and gather documentation that colleges may require.

The Texas Workforce Commission offers powerful resources that many families overlook, including funding for evaluations, training programs, assistive technology, career preparation, transition services, and in some cases even a student's college education. Reach out near the end of your student's sophomore year to learn about available resources and schedule a meeting.

Ready to Explore College?

Dive deeper into college pathways, applications, financial aid, and success strategies.

Learn More About College

Military Pathway

Military service offers training, steady income, healthcare, and education benefits. Explore Active Duty, Reserve, or National Guard options. The military has one of the highest job placement rates (95%+) and pays for all training.

Five Steps to Military Service
  • Explore Branches — Research Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force. Each offers different career paths and benefits.
  • Understand Requirements — Pass medical exam, background check, and achieve security clearance. Must be in good health and meet age/citizenship requirements.
  • Take the ASVAB — Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery determines which military jobs you qualify for. Often offered at high schools.
  • Meet Recruiters — Attend information sessions and speak with recruiters about training, education benefits, job opportunities, and service length.
  • Understand Benefits — Military provides free training, steady income, housing, healthcare, and the GI Bill for education after service.
Active Duty vs. Reserve/National Guard

Active Duty is full-time military service with comprehensive training, steady career progression, and full benefits. Reserve/National Guard allows part-time service while continuing school or work, with access to many of the same benefits.

Military Branch Comparison
  • Army: Largest branch, diverse career opportunities, focus on ground operations and worldwide deployment.
  • Navy: Naval operations and submarine service, career focus on maritime security and global presence.
  • Air Force: Aviation and space operations, technological focus, high-tech career opportunities.
  • Marine Corps: Elite combat force, leadership emphasis, intensive training and esprit de corps.
  • Coast Guard: Maritime law enforcement and rescue, smaller branch with strong community focus.
  • Space Force: Newest branch, space operations and cyber warfare, cutting-edge technology focus.

📝 When is the ASVAB Offered?

The ASVAB is offered at most high schools throughout the year, often multiple times per semester. Test dates vary by school and location.

Ask your teacher or school counselor when the ASVAB will be offered on campus this year. They can provide the exact date, time, and location so you can register and prepare. You can also contact your school's military liaison or a recruiter for test information.

Getting the test date on your calendar early ensures you don't miss this important step in the military pathway.

Ready to Explore Military Service?

Learn about military branches, the enlistment process, training opportunities, and benefits packages.

Learn More About Military

Trade School Pathway

Accelerated training programs (6 months to 2 years) leading to high-demand, well-paying careers with strong job placement rates (90%+). Total cost: $5,000–$25,000 vs. $120,000–$200,000 for a 4-year degree.

Five Steps to Trade School Success
  • Explore Options — Research trade school programs: electrician, plumbing, welding, HVAC, automotive, healthcare, construction, cosmetology, dental hygiene, and more.
  • Find Schools — Locate accredited technical schools and community colleges. Compare costs, duration, job placement rates, and starting salaries.
  • Plan Financing — Trade school programs typically cost $5,000–$25,000 total, which is much less than $120,000+ for college. Explore FAFSA, scholarships, and employer sponsorship.
  • Get Certified — Complete program and pass certification exam. Industry credentials prove competency to employers.
  • Enter Workforce — Skilled trades offer strong job security, competitive salaries ($40,000–$70,000+), and business ownership opportunities.
Why Choose Trade School?

Quick Entry — Graduate in 6 months to 2 years and start earning much sooner. Lower Cost — Total cost of $5,000–$25,000 vs. $120,000+ for college. Graduate with little to no debt. Strong Demand — Skilled trades face worker shortages, ensuring job security and steady income.

Popular Trade Programs & Earning Potential
  • Electrician: Average starting salary $35,000–$45,000; grows to $60,000–$80,000+ with experience and licensing.
  • Plumber: Average starting salary $35,000–$45,000; grows to $55,000–$75,000+ with experience and own business.
  • HVAC Technician: Average starting salary $32,000–$40,000; grows to $50,000–$70,000+ with experience.
  • Welder: Average starting salary $30,000–$40,000; grows to $45,000–$65,000+ with specialization.
  • Dental Hygienist: Average starting salary $55,000–$65,000; average experienced salary $75,000–$95,000.
  • Automotive Technician: Average starting salary $28,000–$38,000; grows to $45,000–$65,000+ with specialization.
Dual Credit & Stackable Credentials

Start credentials before graduation. Many technical schools offer dual credit enrollment programs where you earn trade school certifications while still in high school, getting a head start on your career.

  • Enroll in high school dual credit trade school programs (cosmetology, welding, healthcare certifications)
  • Earn industry-recognized certificates while graduating high school
  • Apply credentials toward associate or bachelor degrees later if desired
  • Start earning immediately after graduation in your skilled trade

Ready to Explore Trade Schools?

Discover different trade school programs, certification pathways, school options, and earning potential.

Learn More About Trade Schools

Workforce & Career Pathway

Start working immediately after graduation with on-the-job training and skill development. Build your career while continuing education part-time.

Direct Workforce Entry
  • Immediate Income — Start earning right away and build financial independence immediately after graduation.
  • On-the-Job Training — Learn industry skills while earning. Many employers provide paid training and professional development.
  • Career Growth — Advance through promotions, take leadership roles, or specialize. Build work history that attracts future opportunities.
Workforce Development
  • Education While Working — Pursue certifications, associate degrees, or bachelor's degrees part-time while working. Many employers sponsor employee education.
  • Professional Network — Build relationships, find mentors, and establish industry connections.
  • Skill Specialization — Discover strengths and interests. Specialize in high-value skills that increase earning potential.
Soft Skills & Workplace Readiness

Employers value these skills as much as technical abilities. Start developing them now:

  • Communication — Writing clear emails, speaking professionally, listening actively in meetings
  • Teamwork & Collaboration — Working with different personalities, contributing to group projects, supporting teammates
  • Problem-Solving — Identifying issues, thinking creatively, proposing solutions
  • Time Management — Meeting deadlines, prioritizing tasks, organizing your work
  • Professionalism — Showing up on time, dressing appropriately, maintaining a positive attitude
  • Digital Literacy — Using email, Microsoft Office, basic computer skills confidently

Workforce Entry Checklist

Research entry-level job opportunities in fields of interest
Develop a strong resume and cover letter
Identify soft skills to develop (communication, teamwork, time management)
Build professional LinkedIn profile
Start job applications 2–3 months before graduation
Practice interviewing and professional communication
Attend career fairs and networking events

Ready to Start Your Career?

Explore job search strategies, career development resources, and building your professional brand.

Learn More About Career Development

Funding Timeline & Financial Aid

Whether college, trade school, or workforce, understanding your financial options matters. Here's a month-by-month guide to not missing opportunities.

Key Financial Aid Terms (Demystified)
  • FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) — The form that unlocks federal grants, loans, and most scholarships. Complete it to qualify for aid.
  • Scholarships — Free money you don't repay. Grants are usually need-based; scholarships are often merit-based or competitive.
  • Work-Study — Part-time college jobs that help you earn money while studying.
  • Federal Loans — Money you borrow and must repay after school. Federal loans have protections; private loans don't.
  • CSS Profile — An additional financial aid form required by some colleges
Federal Grants & Funding Opportunities

The U.S. Department of Education offers a wide variety of grants and programs to support students and families pursuing post-secondary education. These opportunities go beyond just FAFSA-based aid. Explore what's available for your pathway.

Browse Available Federal Grants

Month-by-Month Financial Aid Calendar

September (Senior Year)
  • Start scholarship searches (Fastweb, Scholarships.com, local community foundations)
  • Talk to your school counselor about available aid and deadlines
  • Gather documents you'll need for FAFSA (Social Security number, tax documents)
October 1 - FAFSA Opens
  • FAFSA opens for the upcoming academic year
  • Complete FAFSA as early as possible for maximum aid consideration
  • If your parents file taxes, wait until they're done (late January) to file FAFSA for most accurate info
  • Apply for private scholarships (local, state, national)
December-January (Deadline Crunch)
  • Complete FAFSA (deadline varies by state, but January is ideal for federal aid)
  • Complete CSS Profile if required by your colleges
  • Apply for state and federal financial aid in your state
  • Continue applying for scholarships
  • Research employer tuition assistance programs
February-March (Aid Packages Arrive)
  • Check your email and college portals for financial aid awards
  • Review award letters carefully (grants vs. loans, work-study)
  • Appeal financial aid if you have extenuating circumstances
  • Compare costs between schools and aid packages
  • Make final school choice based on overall cost
April-May (Finalize & Prepare)
  • Submit college enrollment deposit (usually due May 1)
  • Sign loan promissory notes if borrowing federal loans
  • Set up payment plans if paying out of pocket
  • Check for scholarship requirements (grades, essays, timelines)
  • Explore employer tuition reimbursement for working students
June (Post-Graduation)
  • Request official transcripts from your school
  • Confirm financial aid for your chosen institution
  • Understand your loan repayment obligations (if applicable)
  • Prepare for orientation and first semester
Real Talk: Affording Your Pathway

Not everyone has family support for education. Here's what to know about making post-secondary affordable:

  • Work-Study & Jobs — Many students work while in school or training. Employers and schools often support this.
  • Community College First — Save 2 years of tuition, then transfer to university. Massively reduces total cost.
  • Trade School Cost Less — $5,000-$25,000 total vs. $120,000+ for a 4-year degree.
  • Employer Sponsorship — Some employers pay for training or tuition reimbursement after you work for them.
  • GI Bill — The GI Bill covers education costs after military service.
  • Free & Low-Cost Resources — Khan Academy, YouTube tutorials, and open-source learning exist. You don't need expensive programs for all skills.
Foster Youth: Special Support & Resources

If you're in foster care or have experienced the foster care system, you have access to specialized support and funding designed specifically for your success in post-secondary education.

  • Dedicated Support — Organizations and programs understand your unique challenges and provide mentorship, housing assistance, and financial aid navigation.
  • Extended FAFSA Support — You may qualify as an independent student, which can increase financial aid eligibility. You don't need parental information to complete FAFSA.
  • College Housing Programs — Many schools offer housing support for foster youth and students experiencing homelessness.
  • Scholarship Opportunities — Specific scholarships exist for foster youth pursuing post-secondary education. Some offer full tuition coverage plus living expenses.
  • Transition Support Services — Organizations provide case management, life skills training, emergency funding, and ongoing mentorship through age 26.
Explore Foster Youth Resources
Step-by-Step Guide: Becoming an Independent Student (Foster Youth)

Foster youth may qualify as independent students for FAFSA purposes, which significantly increases financial aid eligibility. Here's how:

  • Understand Independent Status: If you were in foster care at any point after age 13, you automatically qualify as an independent student on FAFSA.
  • Gather Documentation: Have evidence of foster care placement (court documents, letters from social workers, or from your states' child welfare agency).
  • Complete FAFSA Accurately: On FAFSA, answer "Yes" to questions about foster care status. You won't need parental information.
  • Contact Your College's Financial Aid Office: Notify them of your foster care status. They can provide additional resources, emergency funds, and connect you with support services.
  • Access College Resources: Many colleges have dedicated Foster Youth Coordinators or Older Youth in Care programs. Ask your financial aid office for connections.

Networking & Mentorship

Your network is one of your greatest assets. People who know you, believe in you, and have connections can open doors. Build relationships now across all four pathways.

Why Mentorship Matters

Mentors are people ahead of you who've walked a path you're considering. They offer guidance, encouragement, honest perspective, and sometimes connections. Everyone needs mentors—in school, work, and life.

How to Find Mentors (For Each Pathway)
  • College: Talk to college alumni from your school. Ask college counselors to connect you with current students. Email professors or join college clubs before attending.
  • Military: Speak with military recruiters and veterans. Ask about mentorship programs in your chosen branch. Connect with current service members in your community.
  • Trade school: Job shadow tradespeople in your field. Talk to trade school instructors and recent graduates. Connect with people in your target trade on LinkedIn.
  • Workforce: Talk to professionals in fields you're exploring. Ask your current boss for guidance. Connect with people at companies you admire on LinkedIn.
Building Your Professional Network
  • LinkedIn Profile — Create a professional LinkedIn profile with a real photo and honest summary. Connect with teachers, coaches, employers, and people in your target field.
  • Informational Interviews — Ask people in fields you're interested in for 15-minute conversations. Most people are happy to share their experience.
  • Attend Events — Career fairs, industry conferences, college open houses, military information sessions—show up and talk to people.
  • Volunteer & Join Groups — Volunteer work and professional associations help you meet people in your field.
  • Stay Connected — After graduation, stay in touch with teachers, counselors, colleagues, and mentors. Send thank-you notes and updates. These relationships matter lifelong.
What to Ask a Mentor
  • "How did you get started in this field?"
  • "What skills were most important to your success?"
  • "What would you do differently if you started over?"
  • "What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?"
  • "What advice would you give someone like me just starting out?"
  • "Can you suggest other people I should talk to?"

Post-Graduation Transition Week & Month

Graduation day is exciting—and then reality hits. Here's what to expect and how to prepare for your first weeks after high school.

The Week After Graduation
  • Rest & Celebrate — You've earned it. Spend time with family and friends. Processing big transitions takes energy.
  • Organize Your Documents — Gather transcripts, diploma, diploma frame (if getting), financial aid acceptance letters, work offer letters, military paperwork, trade school acceptance letters.
  • Request Official Transcripts — Order them from your school to send to your next institution or employer if needed.
  • Update Your Email & Phone — Make sure your personal email and phone number are current on all your college/trade/military/work documents. Clean up your email address if needed.
  • Join Online Groups — If college-bound, join your class's Facebook group or Discord to connect with future classmates. Start building friendships early.
First Month After Graduation (July)
  • For College: Attend orientation, meet your roommate, buy required textbooks, set up your dorm, start college email, complete registration requirements
  • For Military: Confirm your shipping date, complete pre-enlistment paperwork, say goodbyes, prepare physically and mentally, understand what to bring
  • For Trade School: Confirm start date, buy required tools or materials, complete enrollment, arrange transportation, connect with instructors
  • For Workforce: Confirm first day and time, set up work email if applicable, plan your commute, buy professional clothing, prepare to meet your team
What to Expect Emotionally

Leaving high school is a major transition. It's normal to feel excited, nervous, scared, and overwhelmed—sometimes all at once. Here's what many students experience:

  • Relief — High school is done. The college/military/trade school decision is final. There's a sense of completion.
  • Uncertainty — "Did I make the right choice? Can I really do this?" These doubts are normal and don't mean you made a mistake.
  • Grief — Even when excited about what's next, you might miss the familiar (friends, school, routine, home). This is okay.
  • Anticipation — You're about to start something new. That's scary and exhilarating.
  • Imposter Syndrome — "I don't belong here" or "Everyone else is smarter than me." Many successful people feel this. It passes.
Practical First-Day Tips
  • Arrive early (not rushed) so you can find parking, restrooms, locations without stress
  • Eat a good breakfast and bring water—hydration matters for managing nerves
  • Wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable (not what you think you "should" wear)
  • Introduce yourself to people near you—most others are nervous too and relieved when someone starts a conversation
  • Ask questions. First-year students are expected to not know everything. Asking shows engagement.
  • Take notes on important information (names, dates, expectations, where to find help)
  • Be patient with yourself. You're not supposed to know everything on day one. Give yourself grace as you learn.
Remember: You've Got This

You made it through high school. You navigated four (or more) years of classes, transitions, changes, and challenges. You walked at graduation. Whatever pathway you've chosen, you're ready for the next chapter. You have skills, support, and resources. When things get hard (and they will sometimes), remember: hard doesn't mean you can't do it. Hard just means you're growing. Reach out for help when you need it. There are people who want to support you. Take the first step. You've got this.

Additional Resources & Special Support

Important information for all pathways and special support programs available to you.

Special Programs & Support
  • NCAA Athletic Scholarships — Register with NCAA Clearinghouse in junior year. Maintain required GPA and test scores.
  • Comprehensive Transition Program (CTP) — For students with developmental disabilities. College pathway through age 22 with certificate-earning programs and life skills training.
  • Texas Workforce Commission VR Services — For students with disabilities. Funding for evaluations, training programs, and assistive technology. Contact near end of sophomore year.
  • College Application Fee Waivers — If eligible (free/reduced lunch, low income), request waivers through NACAC to save hundreds on applications.
Important Reminders
  • Email Update — School email access ends after graduation. Create a professional personal email TODAY for all future communications.
  • Privacy Laws: FERPA & DC FERPA — FERPA protects your educational records. Complete forms to give parents access during dual credit enrollment.
  • Parent & Student Roles — You drive your planning. Parents provide support with transportation, review, and encouragement.
  • Still Undecided? — Many seniors haven't chosen a pathway yet. That's okay. Start with community college, a gap year, or exploring part-time. Pathways aren't permanent—you can change direction anytime.
Ready to Get Started?

Schedule a personalized planning session with Ms. Thrash to discuss your goals, create an action plan, and build confidence in your post-secondary journey.

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