At Shadow Ridge High School, the pressure to choose a path after graduation is real. As graduation approaches, seniors at Shadow Ridge are faced with one of the biggest decisions in their lives: what to do after high school. Whether it’s going to college, attending trade school, or joining the military, each option comes with benefits and drawbacks, and students are weighing them carefully.
College has long been seen as the traditional path. It promises a higher education, better job opportunities, and a shot at financial success. Many students feel pressure to go this route simply because it’s what’s expected.
“People make it seem like college is the only way to be successful,” says senior Mikayla Thompson, senior at Shadow Ridge. “But college debt is real, and not everyone wants to be in school for four more years.”
That debt is one reason why trade schools are starting to appeal to more students. Trade schools allow students to quickly enter the workforce by focusing on specific skills like plumbing, electrical work, or auto repair. These careers are often high paying and in demand, with little to no student loans required.
“Trade school just makes sense,” says senior Trey Robinson. “I can start making money faster without the stress of college loans.
But while trade school may offer a faster track to a job, some students worry it might not provide the same flexibility or long term growth as a college degree. Still, it remains a strong option for those who want to enter a hands-on career right away after high school.
Then there is the military, which offers a unique mix of structure, benefits, and service. Students who enlist can earn money for college, receive healthcare, and develop leadership skills. For some, it’s the perfect mix of discipline and opportunity.
The military is about more than just a job, says William Townsend, a sophomore considering the air force. “It’s a commitment to something bigger.”
However the military also comes with risk, including the possibility of deployment and students being prepared for that lifestyle.
Some students are also looking into careers in public service, like becoming firefighters, EMTs, or police officers. These first responder jobs often require special training or academies instead of traditional college. Vocational programs can help prepare students for these careers while still in high school.
At Shadow Ridge, students are encouraged to think for themselves. Counselors, teachers, and parents all play a role, but ultimately the decision lies with the students. Whether it’s pursuing a degree, mastering a trade, or serving the country, what matters most is choosing a path that fits their goals, values, and dreams.
