Graduation Plans: Managing Pressure for College & Non-College Paths

It’s important to plan for high school graduation, because the event itself and the overwhelming understanding that you’re being “set free” from an institution to float into the universe on your own can be debilitating. One way to make the transition from school to college (or to non-college) is to be organized. Planning is everything, especially if you want to feel safe and secure about your decisions. The following list includes items for college-bound students as well as for those high school students who want to take a year off, travel, or just start working.

You can see that many of the planning phases are the same whether you intend to go to college or not. You can print this page out and fill in the blank circles as you complete each task, or cross out any task you feel doesn't pertain to you.

Pressures on Students Heading to College

1. Academic Pressure Tips:
o  Create a study schedule for final exams and major projects.
o  Use school resources like tutoring or study groups.
o  Regularly meet with a counselor to ensure all graduation requirements are on track.

2. Future Uncertainty Tips:
o  List pros and cons for each college or career option.
o  Schedule time for college visits or informational interviews with professionals.
o  Develop a flexible plan that includes backup options.

3. Social Expectations Tips:
o  Prioritize important social events and set boundaries to avoid overcommitment.
o  Budget time and money for these events.
o  Encourage meaningful participation rather than feeling obliged to attend every event.

4. Financial Planning Tips
Scholarships and Financial Aid:
o  Create a calendar of application deadlines.
o  Dedicate weekly time slots for scholarship searches and applications.
o  Consult with school counselors for local and national opportunities.
Budgeting:
o  Start a savings plan for college-related expenses.
o  Track expenses using apps or spreadsheets to prepare for independent financial management.

5. Graduation Event Planning
Cap and Gown Orders:
o  Check deadlines and place orders early.
o  Consider borrowing or renting to save costs.
Graduation Announcements:
o  Design or order announcements well in advance.
o  Set aside time for addressing and mailing them.
Celebration:
o  Plan parties or gatherings with a clear budget and guest list.
o  Delegate tasks to family members to reduce the workload.

6. Emotional Preparation
Managing Stress:
o  Practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques.
o  Maintain a balanced routine with time for hobbies and rest.
Reflecting on Achievements:
o  Create a memory book or photo album to commemorate high school experiences.
Preparing for Change:
o  Discuss the upcoming transition with family and friends to foster emotional support.
o  Attend orientation sessions or connect with future peers online.

Pressures on Non-College Bound Students

1. Academic Pressure Tips:
o Create a study schedule for final exams and major projects.
o Use school resources like tutoring or study groups.
o Regularly meet with a counselor to ensure all graduation requirements are on track.

2. Future Uncertainty Tips:
o List pros and cons for each option you have outside college.
o Schedule time for informational interviews with professionals and counselors.
o Develop a flexible plan that includes backup options.

2. Social Expectations Tips:
o Prioritize important social events and set boundaries to avoid overcommitment.
o Budget time and money for these events.
o Encourage meaningful participation rather than feeling obliged to attend every event.

3. Financial Planning
Savings:
o Start saving for future goals, such as further education or starting a business.
Budgeting:
o Learn basic budgeting skills to manage personal finances.
o Explore financial literacy courses to build a strong foundation.

4. Graduation Event Planning
Cap and Gown Orders:
o Check deadlines and place orders early.
o Consider borrowing or renting to save costs.
Graduation Announcements:
o Design or order announcements well in advance.
o Set aside time for addressing and mailing them.
Celebration:
o Plan parties or gatherings with a clear budget and guest list.
o Delegate tasks to family members to reduce the workload.

5. Career Planning
Vocational Training:
o Research and apply to vocational schools or programs.
o Visit trade schools or attend job fairs to explore opportunities.
Apprenticeships:
o Seek apprenticeship programs in industries of interest.
o Network with professionals or join relevant groups.
Job Hunting:
o Develop a resume and cover letter with the help of school resources.
o Practice interview skills through mock interviews.
o Create a job application tracker to manage submissions.

6. Emotional Preparation
Building a Support Network
o Stay connected with peers who are also pursuing non-college paths.
o Join community groups or online forums related to their interests.
Navigating Uncertainty:
o Emphasize the value of adaptability and lifelong learning.
o Encourage setting short-term goals to build confidence.

Conclusion

Students who go on to college or who decide to take another path both experience stresses that can be mitigated with planning. If you used any of the tips above and it helped, let us know in the comments. Also, if you have some tips to add, please comment with your advice. We hope you have a great graduation experience, and we wish you luck!