Most high school seniors have already made post-graduation plans which may include college in September, entering the workforce, or perhaps a career in the military. By this time in the spring, even those who have had trouble making up their mind have reached a decision. For some students, deciding what to do is relatively easy.  College-bound students may have weighed the pros and cons of several of their top choices before making a commitment. Some have waited until the last minute for word from their number one preference, hoping to get that all-important letter saying “You’re accepted.’’

Every year, there are students who feel a great deal of pressure from parents and peers to plan on a college career and sometimes are even steered  toward a particular college or career path even though it may not be what they really want.We’ve known quite a few in our lifetime who did what others wanted rather than argue.

Today’s society is all about getting a good education. We impress it upon children from a young age. We point out the lifetime earnings differences between having a college education and not. There’s nothing wrong with harping on the rewards of a good education, but we should all remember that each young man and woman is different, and what’s right for one may not be for another.

We also have to accept the fact that college isn’t for everyone, and that it’s not the only way to get ahead in this world. Some high school graduates are very successful in the military, where they can also train for special careers. Others are equally as successful in training programs or technical schools and sometimes make it up the income ladder quicker than the college graduate. Likewise, the high school graduate who chooses to embark on a new business venture stands an equal chance of becoming a financial success in life.

Some graduates this spring will decide to take a year off and weigh their options before taking the next step in their lives. We hope high school graduates everywhere follow their hearts and remember that the future offers many possible paths; if they don’t like what they find on one, they can always switch gears and follow another.  It’s never too late, and remember, you’re never too old to seek ways to further educate yourself. Life should always be a learning process in progress.