The Workforce Path is ideal for students who want to enter the working world after completing high school. Entering the working world, however, has different meaning for different people, largely based on their professional contacts, their level of education, and the quality of their job skills. The Workforce Path is inherently risky because students won't be entering the job market with the same level of education and experience as their peers are. However, students who go right into the working world may be able to skip some of the disadvantages of post-high school education, like loan debt and lack of professional experience.
General Characteristics Of The Workforce Path
Like we said above, your experience on the Workforce Path will vary depending on what you bring to your employers in terms of education, skills, and training. All jobs can be divided into full-time jobs, which involve working at least 40 hours a week, and part-time jobs, which entail working less than 40 hours a week.
Full-time jobs, the focus of this Path, are preferable. For the most part, full-time jobs offer greater job security and better salary. You also may get benefits such as health insurance, paid vacations, or a retirement/pension plan. Keep in mind, however, that it may be difficult to secure full-time employment right out of high school.
Part-time employment has certain advantages. For example, less time at work gives you more time to spend with friends and family. You can also attend college while working part-time. What's more, part-time employment can give you the experience you need to gain full-time employment.
However, there are some disadvantages to part-time employment. Part-time employment may not be as stable or as financially rewarding as a full-time job. In fact, you may have to work multiple part-time jobs to equal the income you would receive from a full-time job. You also may not be eligible for benefits such as health insurance and a retirement plan, which means you'll have to pay for these things yourself.
Students Who Choose The Workforce Path Are...
Up for a challenge. During periods when the economy is strong, securing employment without a college degree may be easy. However, when the economy slows, even many college graduates find it hard to gain employment, which may mean it will be nearly impossible for someone with only a high school diploma. Students who choose to work after high school must be committed to controlling their finances, following a detailed career plan and able to stand out from other applicants in their field, all of which are very challenging tasks.
While some students may thrive taking this Path, many will find it difficult to stay afloat. The majority of students who don't have a college degree simply won't make that much money, at least early on. So if you choose the Workforce Path, know that you may struggle for several years until you further develop your professional credentials.
People Who Choose This Path Usually End Up...
Well...working. Again, this is the Path for people who want to get their life started and want to start earning money right away.
But a lot of students who choose this Path also go on to earn an Associate's or Bachelor's degree to further their career options. This, in fact, may be a good option for people who cannot afford college now. By working after you complete high school, you can spend a few years saving money to help pay for your education. Even better, many employers will help qualified employees pay for further education.