Life After High School

Before you graduate from high school you should know how to:  

Set Long-Term Goals

• Consider career possibilities

• Take appropriate courses in high school and strive for academic achievement

• Attend college and career fairs

• Participate in an internship, apprenticeship, job shadow, or other career exploration opportunities

• Develop life goals and map out a plan with a knowledgeable adult

Manage Your Money

• Create and live within a budget

• Open and manage a checking account

• Establish a savings plan

• Practice good spending habits

• Understand how to build good credit and avoid bad credit

• Obtain a summer/part time job

• File taxes as required

• Protect personal information

Manage Your Living Space

• Prepare healthy balanced meals

• Perform basic cleaning tasks such as dusting, vacuuming, mopping

• Know how to do laundry and dishes

• Understand contracts and leases before you sign

• Learn basic vehicle maintenance

• Learn basic first aid and CPR

• Organize and maintain important personal documents (health and immunization records, birth certificate, religious records, social security card, etc.)

 Manage Your Time

• Develop a system to plan and keep a schedule (calendar, app, etc.)

• Be on time for commitments you’ve made

• Prioritize and follow through with commitments

Think Critically 

• Develop problem-solving skills

• Use logical reasoning

• Apply knowledge learned in classroom

• Research and make informed decisions

Present Yourself Properly

• Strengthen professional written and verbal communication skills

• Develop appropriate relationships and respect boundaries

• Be aware of and respect dress codes

• Practice interview techniques

• Use proper etiquette (eye contact, handshake, manners, body language)

• Build a resume

• Maintain a respectable image on social media sites

• Acquire conflict resolution and negotiation skills

Balance Your Life

• Participate in extra-curricular, cultural, and community service activities

• Be responsible and accountable for your behavior

• Pursue hobbies and interests

• Be responsible and accountable for your behavior

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle

• Develop self-confidence

Download the Life After High School PDF:

Know Your Options