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Navigating Post-High School Choices: Essential Tips for Students and Families

KVIA•Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 9:19 AM•Stacker

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As high school seniors approach graduation, many face uncertainty about their future paths. Purdue University psychology professor Shannon Pickett offers four practical tips to assist students and their families in making informed decisions. These include shadowing professionals to understand potential careers, analyzing the financial implications of college tuition, considering alternative education routes like trade schools, and the option of taking a gap year to explore personal interests. With rising tuition costs and a significant percentage of students relying on loans, careful planning is crucial for ensuring a successful transition into adulthood.

Key Details: • Students should consider shadowing professionals to gain insights into potential careers. • Average annual tuition costs in 2025 are $10,340 for public colleges and $39,307 for private colleges. • Enrollment in trade schools has increased by nearly 20% from 2020 to 2025. • Only 2-3% of high school graduates take a gap year, which can enhance college performance.

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Shannon PickettPurdue University

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