Aging out of foster care comes with a lot of new responsibilities—and a lot of opportunities too. One of the biggest decisions you’ll face is what path to take after high school. Should you go to college? Learn a trade? Or start working right away?
The truth is, there’s no “one right way” forward. What matters most is choosing the path that fits your goals, interests, and strengths. At Impact Living Services, we want to help you explore your options so you feel confident about your next step.
Option 1: College
College can open doors to careers that require a degree, such as teaching, nursing, business, or social work. It also offers chances to meet new people, build networks, and develop life skills.
Pros:
- Access to higher-paying career opportunities
- Opportunities for scholarships and financial aid (especially for youth from foster care)
- Personal growth and independence
Considerations:
- Tuition and living expenses can be high, so it’s important to explore grants, scholarships, and work-study programs.
- College usually takes 2–4 years to complete, depending on your program.
👉 Tip: If you’re unsure about a 4-year program, community colleges offer affordable 2-year degrees and credits that can transfer later.
Option 2: Trade School
Trade schools focus on hands-on careers like plumbing, electrical work, cosmetology, automotive repair, or welding. Programs are often shorter than college and can quickly lead to stable, good-paying jobs.
Pros:
- Training is career-focused with practical skills
- Shorter time commitment (months to 2 years)
- High demand for skilled trades across the country
Considerations:
- You’ll usually need to buy tools or equipment for your trade
- Jobs may be physically demanding
- Career growth can depend on certifications or apprenticeships
👉 Tip: Many states have programs that cover trade school costs for youth aging out of foster care—ask about these before applying.
Option 3: Workforce
Some youth choose to go straight into the workforce after high school. This may be the right fit if you want to start earning money immediately, gain experience, or explore different industries before committing to school.
Pros:
- Immediate income to support yourself
- On-the-job training opportunities
- Chance to “test drive” different jobs to see what you enjoy
Considerations:
- Entry-level jobs may not pay as much or offer benefits
- Long-term career growth may require additional training or education later
👉 Tip: Look for employers who offer tuition reimbursement or professional development—it’s a great way to work and learn at the same time.
Choosing What’s Right for You
When deciding between college, trade school, or jumping into the workforce, ask yourself:
- What are my long-term goals?
- Do I want to keep learning in a classroom, or would I prefer hands-on work?
- What kind of lifestyle do I want in the future, and what path best supports that?
There’s no wrong answer—only what’s right for you. Some people even combine options: working part-time while going to school, or starting in the workforce and later returning for training.
Support for Your Journey
At Impact Living Services, we know that transitioning out of foster care comes with unique challenges—but you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Our Independent Living Program helps youth explore education, career, and life skills so they can step into the future with confidence.
👉 Ready to explore your next step? Connect with us to learn how Impact supports youth making the HUGE steps into adulthood!