When a student is ready for some aspects of college but not all, how does a family decide what will the next step after high school be that will most benefit the student? This is a complex question, and the answer is different for each student. Is the student getting poor grades? If so, it is important to understand why. This article talks about this issue in more depth by asking, among other things, if the low grades and/or SAT/ACT scores are a reflection of the student’s true ability. Such an important question to explore in determining next steps after high school. Check out the article for additional insights.
Another student profile is a student with good grades and SAT/ACT scores, but difficulties with independent living skills. This is an important area to explore with a student, because attending college away from home will require independent living skills, and the ability to know when help is needed and where to get the support. Talking about these skills for college success is important to ensure the student clearly understands what will be expected from him or her when living away from home. It allows for conversations about building skills and finding a college that will provide the support needed for success.
With both of these profiles, options are available for students to attend 4 year colleges, but finding the right fit is critical. Therefore, when wondering if college is the next step for a student after high school, spend time considering what supports the student would need to be successful in a college setting. That will be the best way to start to explore options. It might turn out that college needs to wait a year while the student spends time building the necessary skills for success, but at least the student has a path to follow that fits his or her needs.
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