Life After High School: It's Not About College, It's About Self-Awareness

This article delves into the ever-debated topic of life after high school, specifically addressing the “college or not?” question. Gary Vaynerchuk's message, often interpreted as anti-college, is actually about self-awareness and understanding that everyone's journey is unique.

• The article presents diverse perspectives from individuals aged 19 to 31 who have taken different paths to achieve their version of success.
• It aims to help high school students, those applying for college, and those trying to decide whether to return to school, find valuable insights and direction.

Life After High School: The Gap Year - Glorian's Story

Glorian, a 19-year-old immigrant from Venezuela, highlights the importance of patience and planning when it comes to pursuing a college degree. She emphasizes that life after high school doesn't have to be immediate. She chose to prioritize earning money for tuition and improving her English before pursuing her dream career as a psychologist.

• She emphasizes the value of a college education in providing a solid foundation for her dream career.
• Her journey demonstrates that success can be achieved through deliberate planning and perseverance.

Life After High School: The Traditional Student - Megan's Story

Megan, a 21-year-old Long Island native, shares her experience as a traditional student attending Columbia University. Her story emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and goal setting in navigating life after high school. She recognizes the significance of prestigious education for her future ambitions and credits her education for fostering critical thinking and self-growth.

• Megan underscores the importance of aligning education with passion, rather than solely focusing on practicality.
• She sees college as a tool for self-expansion rather than solely a preparation for the workforce.

Life After High School: Community College - Glorimar's Story

Glorimar, a 28-year-old Venezuelan immigrant, advocates for community college as a stepping stone for those seeking a solid educational foundation, particularly for those new to the English language. She credits community college for providing the necessary groundwork for her subsequent transfer to Columbia University.

• She shares her journey of changing her major, pursuing a passion for creative writing after three years of studying a less-fulfilling field.
• Her experience emphasizes the importance of tenacity and following your dreams, despite what others may say.

Life After High School: The Workforce - Sydney's Story

Sydney, a 21-year-old who joined the workforce after dropping out of cosmetology school, offers a perspective on the realities of Gen Z's experience in the current economy. She highlights the need for multiple income streams and the pressure to succeed, often amplified by social media.

• She emphasizes the importance of hustle and resilience in navigating the challenges of the workforce.
• Her story challenges the perception of Gen Z as lazy and entitled.

Life After High School: All of the Above - Eunice's Story

Eunice, a 28-year-old executive assistant from New Jersey, showcases the fluidity of post-high school paths. She shares her experience of going to college, dropping out, trying community college, finishing cosmetology school, and ultimately returning to a four-year university.

• She highlights the importance of exploration and trying different things to find your fit, regardless of conventional expectations.
• She encourages students to understand that a college degree isn't the only path to success in the workforce.

Life After High School: The Apprentice - Frank's Story

Frank, a 31-year-old former apprentice from New Jersey, shares his journey of becoming a barber through apprenticeship. He highlights the importance of networking and taking initiative to gain valuable skills. He emphasizes the power of pursuing your passion and ignoring limitations imposed by others.

• His story underscores the importance of hands-on experience and learning through mentorship.
• He encourages students to be proactive and seek out opportunities outside of traditional education settings.

Life After High School: The Self-Starter - Scott's Story

Scott, a 30-year-old entrepreneur, highlights the importance of soft skills in navigating life after high school. He emphasizes the value of building relationships and being known for reliability and trustworthiness.

• He shares how his experience working at Apple instilled in him the importance of building a positive reputation that transcends specific skills.
• He advocates for focusing on interpersonal skills as a key factor in achieving success.

Life After High School: The College Intern - Frederick's Story

Frederick, a 19-year-old college student, offers a perspective on the role of educators in supporting students' journeys. He advocates for educators to prioritize empathy, understanding, and building genuine connections with students.

• He calls for educators to move away from rigid, legalistic approaches and instead focus on creating a supportive and inclusive environment.
• He encourages educators to model empathy and support, making a positive impact on students' lives.

Life After High School: Gary Vaynerchuk's Message

Ultimately, Gary Vaynerchuk's message encourages individuals to embrace their individuality and pursue their dreams, regardless of traditional expectations. He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and understanding that there is no one-size-fits-all path to success.

• He encourages students to be proactive, find mentors, and leverage their unique skills to achieve their goals.
• His message resonates with the diverse voices presented in the article, highlighting the importance of individual exploration and personal growth in navigating life after high school.