Career Pathways
Our Next Step team has developed five distinct Career Pathways designed to assist you in planning your post-graduation career. After selecting the pathway that best aligns with your goals, our team will guide you through the necessary steps to advance.
We offer tailored support through a variety of resources, including workshops, events, monthly newsletters tailored to your chosen pathway, and personalized one-on-one consultations to develop a strategy that is uniquely suited to your needs.
What are the five career pathways?
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Grad to Work
Head into the workforce after you graduate
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Military
Enlist to serve in the Military after graduation
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Trade & Certificate Programs
Specialized career training and certification
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College Degree Seeking
Start your pursuit of a college degree
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University Rigor
Apply to a university after graduation
Grad to Work
The Next Step Grad to Work Pathway is designed for students who are ready to enter the workforce immediately after graduating from high school. This pathway offers a practical approach for students who prefer to gain hands-on experience and start earning right away, without pursuing further formal education. It is ideal for those who want to explore the workforce to gain real-world experience and build professional skills.
The Next Step team equips students with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to successfully enter the workforce and start building their careers.
Resources for you:
Find more Grad to Work resources on the “How do I get a job now?” page
Military
The Next Step Pathway for Military Enlistment is tailored for students who have decided to serve in the armed forces after graduation. This pathway provides comprehensive guidance and preparation for students planning to join any branch of the military.
Through this pathway, students can explore the different branches to gain a deeper understanding of the military's culture and values, allowing them to enter their chosen branch with confidence and a powerful sense of purpose.
Resources for you:
Find more Military resources on our Military page
Trade & Certificate Programs
The Next Step Pathway for Trade School and Certification Programs is specifically designed for students who wish to pursue specialized vocational training after high school. This pathway provides a focused route for those aiming to acquire practical skills and certifications in various trades and professions. By choosing this route, students commit to an accelerated educational path that combines technical knowledge with hands-on experience, preparing them for entry into the workforce in their chosen field.
Recognizing the unique needs of students entering trade schools or certificate programs, the Next Step team offers tailored support to ensure that each student achieves their career goals. This includes assistance in selecting the right program that matches their interests and career aspirations and helps with the application process. Our team also provides guidance on securing financial aid and scholarships, making vocational education more accessible and affordable.
Through this comprehensive support, the Next Step team empowers students to confidently pursue their vocational goals and thrive in their future careers.
Resources for you:
Find more Trade & Certification Program resources on the Trade School page
College Degree Seeking
The Next Step Pathway for College Degree Seeking is an essential route for students planning to extend their education beyond high school. This pathway is tailored for those who seek to deepen their academic foundations, whether to earn an associate degree at a community college or transfer to a four-year university. By choosing to attend community college, students open doors to numerous educational and career opportunities, enabling them to adapt and grow in the ever-changing job market.
Our dedicated Next Step team plays a pivotal role in supporting students who choose this pathway. We provide comprehensive guidance to help students navigate their educational journey, from understanding the value of an associate degree, to choosing the right community college and major, to the potential for transferring to a four-year university. Our support extends to helping students with the application and enrollment process. We ensure that each student receives personalized advice and support tailored to their individual academic goals and needs.
Additionally, the Next Step team assists students in securing financial aid and scholarships to make their education more affordable. Through the Next Step Pathway, we are committed to empowering students to successfully navigate their community college experience, thereby setting a solid foundation for their future academic and career pursuits.
Resources for you:
Find more College Degree Seeking resources on the College Exploration, Planning & Applications page
University Rigor
The University Rigor Pathway is specifically for students going directly to university after high school graduation aiming to make it a smooth transition into higher education. This pathway caters to those who are eager to immerse themselves in an academic environment that will challenge their intellectual capacities and expand their horizons. It is ideal for students who aspire to delve deeper into their chosen fields of study, contribute to academic discourse, and prepare for professional careers that require a university degree.
To support students opting for this pathway, our dedicated Next Step team provides extensive guidance and resources to ensure successful university admissions. From helping students select the necessary high school courses to meet admissions requirements, choosing the right fit university and a major that aligns with their career aspirations, and assisting in the application process, our team is there every step of the way.
Furthermore, the Next Step team aids students in navigating the financial aspects of university education through scholarship applications and financial aid. Our comprehensive support system ensures that students are well-prepared not only academically but also financially, paving the way for a successful and enriching university experience.
Resources for you:
Find more University Rigor resources in the University section of the College Exploration, Planning & Applications page
What Do I Do When I Have Decided My Pathway?
Selecting a Career Pathway with the Next Step team is not a final decision or weighted commitment.
Students can adjust or change their Pathway at any point; this is simply a way to begin to explore the Pathway, learn the steps it will take to be successful, and gain insight into whether it is truly a right fit for them or help to determine if they need to keep exploring.
For students who have made their decision about which Next Step Pathway they wish to pursue after high school, the next key step is to inform their mentor or advisor of this choice. By doing so, students will be connected to their selected pathway, enabling them to receive tailored information and resources specific to their future goals. This ensures that the support provided is highly relevant and customized, focusing directly on the necessary preparations for their chosen educational or career track.
Once assigned to a pathway, students will gain access to a wealth of resources specifically curated for their needs. This includes detailed newsletters, planning tools, resources, and direct contact with experts who specialize in their area of interest. Whether it is going directly to work, enlisting in the military, enrolling in a trade or certification program, attending community college, or preparing for university, each pathway offers unique support structures designed to facilitate a smooth transition and successful outcomes.
Additionally, our team is always ready to provide ongoing support throughout this journey. Students are encouraged to reach out at any point for further assistance, whether they need help with specific preparations, encounter any challenges, or simply require additional guidance to stay on track. Our commitment is to support each student in achieving their educational and career objectives, ensuring they feel confident and well-prepared every step of the way.