My Future
How can I get help to complete my education?
Have you heard of the term “social capital?” It’s not necessarily something you’re born with; rather, social capital is intangible things of value that you possess and can use to advance in life. Things like education, skills, mastery of language, and your social networks are all social capital.
The fact is, education plays a huge role in your future because it impacts your economic potential. It’s one of the best things you can do to be more upwardly mobile (move above your current life circumstances) and help break the cycle of poverty.
High school, trade school, and college degrees help determine the kind of job you can get.
People who have a post-secondary degree, such as a bachelor’s degree from a college, earn about 65% more per week than those with just a high school diploma. Children of college graduates are also more likely to go to college. So, the choices you make now affect your future and the life of your future family.
Would completing your education make a difference in your life? In this video, the Life. As Told By Youth contributors give their opinions as to why they—and other young people—might want to finish high school and then go to college or trade school. Do you agree with their thoughts? Tell us more.
You obviously landed on this page of the Life. As Told By Youth website for a reason: you’re thinking about your future and how education influences that. We’ve put together some tips to help you take the next step to complete your education and then find a good career.
Have you graduated from high school? If you’re at least 17 years old and you don’t want to return to a traditional school, take a look at getting your GED.
Research your financial aid options. Taking a GED prep course and the test costs money. Attending trade school or college costs even more.
Apply for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or aid through the State of Colorado.
Do you have some college credits, but didn’t graduate? The Finish What Your Started program combines financial support with connections to resources to help Colorado students obtain a college degree.
If you’re working right now, talk with your employer about your plans to go to school—Some companies offer reimbursement programs for employees to continue their education. Education makes you a more valuable employee and will open up better, more high paying jobs for you.
Make an appointment with an admissions counselor—These staff members can give you an inside look at life at the college, including areas of study and financial aid / scholarship opportunities. Trade schools, community colleges, and universities all have financial aid centers that can help you learn more about how to pay for school.
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