Wednesday, June 29, 2016

TO GO TO COLLEGE, OR TO NOT GO TO COLLEGE - THAT IS THE SIX FIGURE QUESTION


Graduations at every level have taken place throughout the Bay Area and the country. From completion of preschool to post graduate degrees, proud family and friends get together to offer congratulations and best wishes. Then comes the stark reality of moving on to the next chapter. Okay, maybe not so overwhelming for preschoolers, but many young adults are concerned about career opportunities and many parents are stressed about becoming encumbered with large sums of financial debt. The truth is, not every high school graduate wants or needs to go to a very expensive, very exclusive university. There are still many careers that afford very comfortable life styles and don’t require a 4-year college degree and do not necessitate encumbering mounds of financial obligations.

So how does one decide what career path is right? You can check out the Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov, to see what occupations have the largest job growth. You can also look for appealing internship opportunities, which expose you to the day-to-day ups and downs of a profession. Also, think about how your part-time job or summer job enhances your work skills and might further your goals.

Whatever you decide, don’t leave your career options to luck or fate. Professional success is about putting yourself in the most advantageous position for numerous and varied opportunities.  
Last, but certainly not least, if you’re actively job-hunting, clean up your social media portfolios! Employers can conduct social media background checks going back seven years. Do you remember what you posted 7 years ago? 7 days ago? Review your photos, videos, and other posts and remove any that can be misconstrued or damaging to your reputation.

Contact Margaret Lavin at elementarydays@gmail.com.


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