Mike Smith:
Instead of heading off to college at the end of high school, some highschool grads may want to travel, go on a mission trip, join the military, or get a job. Today we’ll discuss some practical ways to think outside of box when considering post-high school options.

It might surprise you to hear that a number of careers don’t require a college degree. Your teen can find a rewarding job and financial stability in areas from crafts and trades to technology. So, where does your high schooler start?

Internet resources can jumpstart your search for college alternatives. For example, if your teen is interested in working or traveling abroad, check out websites such as BackDoorJobs.com or TransitionsAbroad.com.

Is your teen interested in the military? Take a look at www.military.com or www.GoArmy.com. Take a trip to the local library for books on career assessment or jobs that don’t require a degree. What Color Is Your Parachute? by Richard Bolles offers some great tips for finding the right career.

Even without a degree, your high schooler should learn basic skills to be a marketable employee. This includes familiarity with the most common computer software, basic accounting, and strong writing skills. Although some jobs don’t require a degree, they may require certification, some college, or job experience.

Listeners, tune in next time to hear about some specific alternatives to college, and about one homeschooled graduate who struck out on his own path after high school.

And until then, I’m Mike Smith.