Six Reasons to Explore Careers BEFORE Applying to College

Six Reasons to Explore Careers BEFORE Applying to College

Since people spend so much time working, earning a degree should translate into personally and financially fulfilling opportunities that allow people to live their best lives.

Reasons to Explore Careers Before College

REASON ONE: $25,707 per year or $102,828 over 4 years is the average cost of attendance for students living on campus attending public 4-year in-state institutions

REASON TWO:  $44,014 per year or $176,056 over 4 years is the average cost of attendance for out-of-state students living on campus attending public 4-year in-state institutions

REASON THREE: $54,501 per year or $218,004 over 4 years is the average cost of attendance for private, nonprofit university students 

REASON FOUR: 39.8% of bachelor’s degree-seeking students graduate within 4 years

REASON FIVE: 60.9% of bachelor’s degree-seeking students graduate within 6 years

REASON SIX: $207,384 is the 6-year average cost of attendance for a bachelor’s degree

*Source: The Education Data Initiative, 2022

How Can College-Bound Students Maximize their Chances of Graduating in Four Years? 

High school students who want to maximize their chances of earning a degree in four years and landing in a field they love should identify and explore interests.

Pro tip #1: Try to avoid the five or six-year plan unless typical for your major (e.g., engineering and B.Arch programs)

One way to ensure one is on the right path is to learn about the connections between personality, values, abilities, and career fit. Start by understanding personality types (click HERE to take the free Myers Briggs test) and HERE for a free Holland Code Career Test. Next, invest time and energy into basic career analyses.

Pro tip #2: Consider the education required, salary, career outlook, informational interviews, and informal shadowing opportunities.

Working with a professional with expertise and access to tools only available to counselors is recommended for those interested in a comprehensive and strategic college and career exploration process. 

Pro tip #3: Don’t wait until a mid-life crisis to really think about what you’d love to do!

Ultimately, when selecting a college and a major, it is essential to be realistic about the time it will take to earn a degree and acknowledge that the return on investment for a college degree varies. 

For more information on why and how to explore degree and career options while in high school, feel free to reach out at  kathy@fineeducationalsolutions.com. 

Tune in next week for tips for students who have no idea what to major in.