Its getting close to some application deadlines, which might mean you're considering college/grad school. Some people seem like they have it all figured out. They've known their life plan since they were six years old and have mapped out class schedules for college. Chances are that you're not that person. You might be sitting there thinking "I don't know, maybe I want to pursue higher education?" And that is perfectly fine. You don't need to have your life planned out, but maybe I can help you make your next big decision.
1. Do you enjoy school? If you are considering higher education then you should probably be okay with more school. If you wake up every day dreading going to class, then higher education is not for you. At least not a four year/graduate program. Instead look at trade school or look for a career that only requires a high school education. Its out there, you just have to search a little bit.
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2. Do you have an idea of what you want to do for a career? You don't have to know exactly, but it helps to have an idea. For college I advise you to explore options you might not have considered. Take a variety of electives and gauge your interests. Do quick Google searches for careers in that field. College is a time for exploration, and its a great time to experiment with different paths. Grad school, however, is not the time for exploring. You should know your field going into grad school. Don't just go to grad school because its the "next step." If you're unsure, take a year to explore your options.
3. Can you afford more school? Look into grants and scholarships first. Take time to search for all available methods of obtaining free money for school. Once you've exhausted those options, look at loans. Are you willing to pay those back after school? Higher education is extremely expensive, so you should take time to weigh in on this.
4. Visit! See what the campus is like. Talk to students. Sit in on a class. If you're going to have a meal plan, eat the food. Can you tolerate all the things you've seen for the next four years? If so, then maybe you should apply to the school.
This doesn't seem like much, but for me these were at the core of me deciding to go to graduate school. I spent hours considering the pros and cons of more school. By the time I graduate I will have been in school for 21 years. You really have to be committed to school to pursue higher education. Take your time before jumping into anything. I wish you the best of luck in course you choose!
