5 Things to Consider Before Graduating High School

The countdown to high school graduation is an exciting and challenging time in a student’s life, one where dreams and uncertainty coincide with important milestones, like attending prom, becoming a licensed driver, getting accepted into college, and setting other future plans in motion.

As you approach your senior year of high school, how can you make the most of this special time in your life and prepare yourself for what lies ahead?

Options Charter School in Indiana is here to explore 5 things every student should consider before graduating high school. Let’s dive into everything you need to know before graduation rolls around ‒ and if you’d like to tell us about what you’re doing to prepare for graduation, contact us today! We’d love to hear from you.

1. Education

How do you envision life after high school? If your plan is to go to college, now is the time to be proactive and take advantage of the resources around you. Start visiting colleges, gathering letters of recommendation, signing up for standardized testing, and building your resume for the application process.

College is not the only educational route to consider. If you’re interested in a trade, like plumbing, electrical work, or cosmetology, take a look in vocational schools in your area. Community college is another option that can help you accumulate undergraduate credit while you work part-time, save money, and figure out which major you want to pursue.

Some students need to take a break from school to figure out what they want to do. Research careers that interest you. Reach out to people who are in these fields and get a feel if it’s right for you. While you figure out your next steps, learn a foreign language, take an online course, or attend workshops, webinars, and conferences.

2. Savings

Saving money as a young adult is challenging, especially when you’re juggling work, school, sports, or other responsibilities.

Luckily, there are small steps you can take now to develop the smart saving habits you’ll need as an adult. Learn how to balance a checkbook. Consider opening a savings account and setting a monthly budget for yourself. If you don’t have a part-time job, earn money when and where you can by pursuing creative and flexible jobs like babysitting, house cleaning, tutoring, or yard work.

Allot money towards your necessities and set a limit on spending each month. As your savings accumulate over time, you’ll have more freedom to pursue and invest in your future.

3. Health

What are some other things you should consider before graduating high school?

When you’re young, it’s easy to feel like you’re on top of the world and can do anything ‒ but staying up late, consuming caffeine and junk food, being reckless, and living a sedentary lifestyle can easily catch up with you.

Now is the time to set safe and healthy habits for life. So, what can you start doing now for your best and healthiest life?

• Eat a nutritious, balanced diet.
• Exercise regularly for up to 60 minutes a day.
• Minimize caffeine & junk food consumption.
• Avoid cigarettes, alcohol, & drugs.
• Aim to get 8-10 hours of quality sleep each night.
• Wear sunscreen & seatbelts.

Make sure you visit your physician annually for a physical examination, as well as your dentist twice a year for teeth cleanings. Remember: Preventative care is essential to your long-term health and wellness.

Don’t forget to take care of your mental health! Do things that bring you joy, accept who you are, be open and honest with people you can trust, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you’re struggling.

4. Transportation

Whether you’re attending college or working after high school, how do you plan to get around? You may be used to having your parents drive you around or carpooling with friends. But by the time you graduate high school, you should have a reliable mode of transportation that will get you where you need to be in both the short and long-term.

A car is the go-to form of transportation for many, but depending on where you live, you may be able to rely on public transportation and save more money in the process. Getting around by bicycle is also a great way to save money and stay healthy. If you choose a bike as your primary mode of transportation, make sure you have a reliable alternative in the wintertime.

Even if you don’t have a car, it’s beneficial to get your driver’s license as soon as possible (so it’s one less thing you have to worry about down the road.) Aim to have your driver’s license by the time you graduate high school, or soon after.

5. Work-Life Balance

For the rest of your life, time management is of the essence. By establishing a healthy work-life balance before graduating high school, you can set yourself for an easier time as you transition into adulthood.

How do you achieve a healthy work-life balance? First, prioritize your most important activities and responsibilities and make sure you’re giving yourself enough time to fulfill them. Don’t overcommit if you don’t have the time to realistically get your priorities done. Keep track of how long it takes you to complete these and see how much time you’re able to free up each week.

Create daily and weekly goals, which account for your high-priority activities. Use a planner to schedule time for your responsibilities and commitments. Set boundaries and don’t be afraid to say “no” to people, places, and things that take you away from what you should be doing.

You don’t want to overload your schedule and leave yourself with little to no downtime. As much as you should prioritize work and school, you should also prioritize your health and well-being. Make enough time to exercise, see friends and family, and do things you enjoy.

High School Graduation Is Right Around the Corner

Once you toss your graduation cap into the air, the journey to adulthood will officially begin.

Education, savings, transportation, health, and work-life balance are the five things you should consider before graduating high school. By having a strong grasp of these things, you’ll be ready to throw your graduation cap with confidence for what lies ahead.

For more tips and information to help you prepare for the future, stay tuned to our blog! If you have any questions or liked any of these tips, contact Options Charter School today.