8 Things You Should Know Before Leaving Secondary School

You should know that there’s more to life after secondary school than choosing a Polytechnic or University to attend. A secondary school graduate needs to know the options available when planning his/her future and the expectations of adult accountability as he/she enters the real world as responsible young adults.

Personal Passions

As graduation approaches, it’s time for students to take a hard look at their true passions, whether academic subjects, extracurricular activities or an outside interest. Knowing their personal passions helps teens find career paths to which they can happily devote their lives.

Career Possibilities

Whether they’re mad about fashion, movies, science, sports or planning parties, students should learn all they can about career opportunities in fields they’re passionate about. They should be able to link their passion to a position, such as a clothing designer for fashion fans and jobs in public relations for those interested in staging celebrations.

College Choices

Students need to consider not only the top universities available, but also the school’s academic reputation in the professional world.

Academic Alternatives

Traditional college alternatives, such as technical, trade or fashion schools, are good options for students who would rather forgo academia in favour of training to prepare them for careers more quickly.

Emergency Etiquette

When graduating teens leave their parents’ homes for the first time, they’ll have to rely on themselves if emergencies arise. So knowing what to do doing emergencies is very relevant.

Adult Accountability

It’s important for young adults to fully understand that the freedom they’ll have after high school comes with the price of a greater accountability for their actions. Parents and high school graduates need to engage in frank conversations regarding issues including alcohol abuse, drunk driving, drug usage and sexual activity, as teens may encounter these temptations in a college setting.

Social Responsibility

High school students should also understand that adulthood comes with the responsibility to become a contributing member of society. Young adults need to look beyond themselves to discover ways to improve the world around them through opportunities such as volunteer work.

Life Skills

Moving away from home means teens will no longer have a parent around to make their meals or do their laundry. While academics are important, high school seniors should also know the basic skills needed to maintain their personal health and hygiene.