This is The Way: Career Stories to Find Your Way–a video series created by Get Schooled. In this series, you’ll hear from professionals in all types of industries about how they found their way and the advice they have for young people starting their first jobs. We’re here to help you find your way!
Following Your Artistic Passion with Mary Elizabeth L!
Company: Custom jewelry/jeweler/goldsmith
Title: Business Owner
Experience at current job: 4 years as business owner, 28 years as goldsmith
Postsecondary: Kansas City Art Institute (4 year college of art and design)
Mary Elizabeth is a Goldsmith and entrepreneur. She went to college and was also an apprentice. Now she works with people to build custom jewelry!
No Bad Days at the Chocolate Factory with Nate C!
Company: Dandelion Chocolate
Title: Lead Chocolate Maker
Experience at current job: 3 years
Postsecondary: Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Nate is a Lead Chocolate Maker at Dandelion Chocolate. He says that solving problems every day and making a great product is what ensures that there is never a bad day at the chocolate factory!
While long-term studies show that higher education increases the likelihood of completing a degree and achieving long-term career success, we recognize that some students may choose a different path, such as entering the workforce. If you’re considering finding a job after high school, use the resources we list below to make an informed decision about your future.
Why students enter the workforce immediately
Some common reasons for entering the workforce right after high school may include:
Immediate financial need – The urgency to earn money quickly is real for many students.
Burnout from school – After years of education, some students feel exhausted and need a break.
Uncertainty about career goals – College is a significant investment, and not knowing what to study can make the decision overwhelming.
Gap years – Some students may take a gap year to work and save money or explore different careers.
It’s okay if you want to take a break from school or pivot in a new direction—sometimes, life circumstances change, or you simply need time to reassess your goals. However, having at least a general idea of your long-term plan is crucial. A clear direction helps you stay motivated, make informed decisions, and avoid feeling stuck. Employers and industries value experience and consistency, so having a roadmap—whether it’s a degree, certification, or skill-building—can keep you on track for career growth. Flexibility is important, but without a plan, it’s easy to lose momentum or miss opportunities that align with your future goals.
What you need to apply for jobs
Before you start applying for jobs, make sure you have these essential documents:
Resume – A clear summary of your skills, education, and experience.
Cover letter – A brief letter explaining why you’re interested in the job and what you can bring to the role.
References – Contacts who can vouch for your work ethic and skills.
Creating your first resume? Use one of our templates! Need a second opinion on your resume before sending it to employers? Send it to us for a FREE resume review!
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Create a job-ready resume in minutes with Resume Builder! No matter your job experience, our AI-powered Resume Builder will create a personalized resume for you! After a guided conversation, your skills and activities will be turned into a draft resume—no blank page, no stress. Click the image below to begin!
Job search strategies
Finding a job after high school requires strategic planning. Consider the following:
Utilize job boards and career websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and local city and state job resources.
Network with family, friends, and school counselors who may have job leads.
Research industries with high-growth potential in your area, such as healthcare, manufacturing, or technology.
The reality of career advancement without a degree
While it is possible to build a career without a college degree, certain barriers exist:
Many high-paying jobs require certifications or specialized training.
Career growth opportunities may be slower without formal education.
Some industries have limited advancement opportunities for those without degrees.
Jumping into the workforce may seem like the best option now, but think about the long-term payoff. A degree or certification often leads to higher wages, greater job stability, and increased autonomy in your career. If you need to work right away, consider employers who offer tuition reimbursement or opportunities for advancement.
It’s important to note that a degree is not the only path to a successful career. Many industries value skills, experience, and determination just as much—if not more—than formal education!
Finding good-paying jobs without a degree
If college isn’t in your immediate plans, look for jobs that offer stability and growth potential:
Union jobs – Employers like Safeway and Fred Meyer provide benefits like tuition reimbursement and health insurance.
Apprenticeships and trade jobs – Fields like electrical work, plumbing, and construction offer strong earning potential with proper training.
Entry-level corporate jobs – Companies in retail, customer service, and administrative roles sometimes offer opportunities for advancement.
Healthcare support roles – Jobs like medical assistants or pharmacy technicians require certifications and minimal college but offer room for growth.
Your path, your success
No matter the route you take, success is built through continous learning, adaptability, and perseverance. Whether through traditional education, hands-on experience, or self-directed learning, there are many ways to achieve your career goals.
Final thoughts
No matter your path, the key is to keep learning and growing. Whether through work experience, trade certifications, or eventually pursuing a degree, investing in yourself is the best way to build a stable and rewarding career.
Understanding what is needed to work in the United States can be confusing for anyone applying for a job for the first time. This can potentially be even more complicated depending on your immigration or legal status in the country. Fortunately, there are job options available for both undocumented youth and youth who have specially protected legal status, such as DACA recipients. In this piece we’ll break down what your job options are and where to find job resources!
Immigration and work authorization policies can change due to court decisions and federal action, so it’s important to stay informed using trusted, up-to-date sources.
Determining your right to work
There are a few categories of legal status that you may fall under according to the federal government. Depending on your status, you’ll have different legal options in terms of what kinds of work you can obtain. We’ll break down the most common statuses below and link to great resources to learn more.
DACA and TPS recipients
The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program provides young people who were brought to the U.S. as children with protection from deportation, a social security number, work authorization, and more. DACA, however, is facing some legal challenges. If you currently have DACA status, your right to work is still in place. While new recipients are not being processed, you still may be able to process a renewal so be sure to check your status before you apply to any jobs.
Because DACA remains subject to ongoing legal challenges, recipients should regularly monitor renewal deadlines and policy updates before applying for or changing jobs.
Even if you currently have valid work authorization, delays in renewals or processing may occur, so planning ahead is especially important.
The Temporary Protective Status (TPS) program provides temporary immigration status to people of certain countries experiencing problems that make it difficult or unsafe for their nationals to be deported back to those countries. TPS designations and extensions are determined by the federal government and may change, so be sure to confirm your country’s current status and eligibility.
Both of these programs offer recipients the ability to work legally in the United States. Here are some key terms and documents you’ll need to know to work successfully with these statuses:
Employment Authorization Document (EAD) – As a DACA or TPS recipient, you will be eligible to receive an employment authorization document, or EAD. This document is all the legal proof you need to work! In order to keep your EAD valid, be sure to make sure that your DACA or TPS status is up to date and active.
Form I-9 – This is a legal form that employers are required to have all new employees complete. The federal government uses this form to ensure that all employers are hiring employees who are legally entitled to work in the United States. Your EAD is a valid form of identification and proof of your legal right to work and should be the only proof you need when you fill out your I-9 form.
Social Security Number (SSN) – A Social Security Number is a government-issued identification number that is used to track earnings, file taxes, and can be used as a part of loan applications among other things. As a DACA or TPS recipient, you may be eligible to receive a SSN. While a SSN is not required to legally work in the U.S., it is highly encouraged to obtain one because it can make things like filing taxes, applying for financial aid for college, and obtaining further employment easier.
Undocumented individuals
If you do not have legal work documents in the United States, like the ones a DACA or TPS or green card holder have, your path to employment can be a bit more complicated – but there are still ways for you to earn money! While securing employment can be difficult for undocumented people, since all employers in the U.S. require new hires to submit an I-9 form, there are still ways for them to earn money legally. Here are some key things to know before you start earning money:
Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) – An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax processing number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). An ITIN is given to people who are required to pay taxes but who do not have, and are not eligible to obtain, a SSN. The ITIN allows people to report earnings to the IRS, open interest-bearing bank accounts with certain banks, and even start a business in the U.S. Getting an ITIN is the first step in earning money legally as an undocumented individual!
Form W-7 – This is the form you’ll need to complete in order to get an ITIN from the government.
Given increased immigration enforcement concerns in some areas, undocumented individuals should be exercise caution when sharing personal information and seek guidance before pursuing new work opportunities
A good practice to have is to avoid employers or job postings that promise “guaranteed” work authorization or ask for unnecessary personal or immigration documents.
How undocumented individuals can earn money in the U.S.
Because employers in the U.S. cannot hire employees without legal authorization, the best way to earn money as an undocumented youth is as an independent contractor, freelancer, entrepreneur, and through worker cooperatives. Once you have an ITIN, you can legally earn money (and pay taxes) in these ways:
Independent Contractor or Freelancer – The “gig economy” refers to a segment of the labor market in which clients contract with workers, often via apps, for specific tasks and activities. This includes things like being a driver for a ride share app like Uber or Lyft, working as a freelancer on apps like TaskRabbit, or even jobs such as computer programmers.
Entrepreneurship – Working for yourself is never a bad idea! This could include selling products on Etsy or eBay, providing services in your neighborhood, tutoring, babysitting, and more. Read our list of side hustles you can start today for some inspiration!
Key Resources to Help –
If you have questions about your rights or work options, consider reaching out to a trusted nonprofit or legal aid organization for personalized guidance. Immigrants Rising is an amazing organization that helps young people earn money and know their rights. They have tools about getting started as an independent contractor, brainstorming your next business, and even offer grants to help you start your own business. If you are in college, be sure to talk to someone at your career center. Many schools have specific programs to support youth with a range of immigration statuses. They may have specific internships or fellowships that you can apply for.
Knowing your rights and figuring out ways to make money can be confusing and challenging, but we’re here to help! Do you have a question or need further assistance with finding or securing a job as a DACA recipient or undocumented person? Connect with a Get Schooled Advisor.
Some U.S. states provide their own financial aid applications or offer in-state tuition for undocumented students. Here’s a list of states that help make financial aid more accessible for students not eligible for FAFSA.
Before applying to colleges and universities, it’s important to know that some schools have different policies when it comes to taking a student’s financial information into consideration during admissions. To help you understand what these policies are, known as need-blind and need-aware, we break them down for you!
How do colleges determine financial need?
Colleges access students’ financial information through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), state aid application, or the CSS Profile. On these applications, you will list your family’s size, income, and asset information to help the federal government and your college determine the right amount of aid for you. Regardless of your family’s financial situation, we highly recommend completing the FAFSA or your state’s application to receive the most amount of financial aid possible for college!
Need-blind
A need-blind admissions policy means that colleges will not take a student’s financial situation into consideration when making an admissions decision. There are a little over 100 colleges in the U.S. that have need-blind admissions policies. Need-blind colleges are typically elite schools that have the financial means to approach admissions in this way. Examples of need-blind colleges include Harvard University and Brown University.
It’s important to know that just because a college has a need-blind admission policy, it does not mean they will automatically give you a financial aid package that covers all of your costs. Need-blind is only for admissions purposes.
Need-aware
Need-aware means that colleges may or will take a student’s financial information into consideration when making an admissions decision. Every college handles this differently. A need-aware admissions policy can make a difference for students whose application may not be as competitive. If a school has this policy, a student’s financial need might be taken into consideration for an admissions decision.
Meeting financial need
Now that you know the difference between need-blind and need-aware admissions, be sure to research the financial aid policies of schools you’re interested in before applying. If a college says they will “meet demonstrated financial need,” it means that they’ll ensure your financial aid package reflects your demonstrated need.
For example, if the total cost of attendance for a school is $20k per year, and the school determines that your family can contribute $5k to your education, it will offer you a financial aid package that makes up for that needed $15k. For example, the Husky Promise at the University of Washington guarantees that full tuition and fees will be covered by grants or scholarships for income eligible Washington state students.
If you are set on attending a specific college but have some concerns about affording it, be sure to apply for scholarships early to help offset any educational costs that may not be covered by financial aid.
Financial questions to consider when researching colleges
What is this school’s admissions policy concerning financial need?
Does this college meet full financial need?
What financial aid options are available to students?
Does this college award merit and need-based aid and scholarships?
Strategies to maximize your financial aid
Apply to a mix of need-blind and need-aware schools.
Research promise programs in your area to see if any colleges near you offer free or reduced tuition programs.
Apply for different forms of financial aid (FAFSA, state aid, CSS Profile, and scholarships).
If you are still weighing your post-high school options or are waiting to make a decision, know that you are not alone and you still have time to decide! In this article, we’ll break down different post-high school options to choose from.
If you haven’t yet completed the 2025-2026 FAFSA, there’s still time, but it’s important to do it soon. While the federal FAFSA deadline is June 30, colleges and states have their own individual deadlines. Completing the FAFSA is the most important thing eligible students can do to receive most forms of federal, state, and institutional financial aid, such as scholarships, grants, and loans. Completing the FAFSA is free, safe, and can open you up to even more financial aid and college options. If you need help completing the FAFSA, text us! We’re here to support.
Check your FAFSA status
If you’re unsure about whether your FAFSA has been processed, log into your StudentAid.gov account and check its status under the “My Activity” tab. The status of your FAFSA will fall under one of the following categories:
In Progress: Application has been started but not submitted.
Next step: Complete all required sections and submit as soon as possible.
In Review: Application has been submitted but has not been processed.
Next step: No action needed, processing can take several days.
Action Required: There is an error with the application that needs to be fixed. Errors can include missing a signature on the application or not consenting for tax information to be transferred from the IRS.
Next step: Log in immediately to review and correct errors to avoid delays.
Processed: Application was successfully processed and information is being sent to the colleges listed on it. Colleges will now create and send financial aid offer letters to admitted and enrolled students.
Next step: Monitor your emails and your college portals for financial aid offers or to submit any additional informations college(s) might require.
Complete state-based financial aid applications
In addition to the FAFSA you should also apply for state financial aid. If you are ineligible to complete the FAFSA, you may be able to apply for state financial aid instead. If your state offers financial aid, be sure to complete and submit the application ahead of its deadline to be considered for financial aid.
Apply for scholarships
Any free money you can get for college helps! Once you submit your FAFSA or state-based aid application, it’s a great time to find and apply for scholarships. Check out our Scholarship Finder for access to 21,000+ college scholarships!
You can still be accepted to college
Wondering how you can be accepted to college later in the school year? Here are a few options to explore to determine your best path forward.
Colleges with rolling admission
Some colleges have rolling admission, meaning that they accept and review applications as they are received until all spots in a given year are filled. This means that you can apply to college later in the school year and still have a chance of getting accepted! Different colleges will have different time frames of when you can submit your application and how long it will take to hear back from them. Check with each school you’re interested in applying to for specific dates and deadlines.
Community colleges
Generally, community colleges have much more fluid application cycles and timelines for new students compared to four-year colleges. This means that you can potentially apply and be admitted to a community college later in the school year. Community college is a great option to consider if you want to save money on tuition fees, are unsure about what you want to study, or weren’t originally planning on applying to college.
Additionally, community college may be a good option for students who experienced FAFSA-related challenges. If you were admitted to a college but haven’t received your financial aid offer letter, leaving you feeling unsure about whether it’s financially realistic to attend with aid, you may be able to defer your admission for up to one year. Your ability to defer will depend on your college’s policy, so check in with them to learn more before making a decision.
If you are able to defer your admission and still want to make progress toward your degree, you may be able to take gen ed, or introductory, classes at a local community college. Once you have a better idea of whether the school where you deferred your admission will be realistic to attend, you can transfer there the following year with some credits!
Trade schools
If you’re looking for practical, hands-on training that can prepare you for the workforce in one to two years, consider enrolling in a trade school. Trade schools offer programs that prepare students for careers in fields such as healthcare, cosmetology, technology, and more. Also, with careful planning and preparation, students can continue their education toward a college degree after completing a trade school program. For example, you can attend trade school to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), then move on to earn your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at a four-year college. No matter what your career interests are, it’s important to research trade schools thoroughly and consider whether the programs they offer align with your career goals.
If changes to your personal or financial circumstances lead you to consider taking a break from attending college, it’s important to know that you have options. We share what you should know about the differences between deferring your admission and taking a leave of absence, and what steps to take if you’re considering either.
Deferring admission
Deferring your admission to college means accepting your offer letter to attend a school, and then requesting an extended period of time off before starting. It’s important to know that you must accept your offer of admission before requesting to defer it. This way, your school can hold your spot for you; and in most cases, you will not have to re-apply when you’re ready to start.
Here are some important questions to ask your college before deferring your admission:
What is the deadline to defer?
Will deferring affect my financial aid package?
Will I need to document my time spent away from school?
What will I need to start school next year?
Leave of absence
Students who are already attending college and want to take time off can take a voluntary leave of absence. During a leave of absence, students are not enrolled in any classes but are still considered students of their school.
Here are some important questions to ask your college before taking a leave of absence:
How often do I need to update you about when I plan to return?
Will I need to re-apply for admission when I’m ready to return?
Will I have to pay back the financial aid I’ve already received for the following term or year?
What will show up on my transcripts while I’m not in school (an “incomplete” or “withdrawal from classes”)?
Finishing college is an incredible journey to see through! If you have any questions about deferring your admission, taking a leave of absence, or returning to school after either, we’re here to support you! Connect with a Get Schooled Advisor.
If you’re considering taking a gap year, it’s important to be informed about your options and any potential consequences so you can make an informed decision. We’ll break down what you should know about taking a gap year, like pros, cons, and ways to make it effective.
What is a gap year?
When a student takes a gap year, they do not attend college for a year between their senior year of high school and freshman year of college. There are many reasons a student may take one, like saving money, focusing on family, defining their educational and professional goals, or traveling.
How do I take a gap year?
If you’re thinking about taking a gap year, it’s best to make a decision as soon as possible, as it may affect your college and financial aid plans. If you’re certain you want to take one, you may want to consider not applying to college your senior year or deferring your admission to the college you want to attend.
What are the pros of taking a gap year?
Earn and save money
The high cost of attending college means that most students take on debt to receive their education. Working and saving money for a year can help reduce the overall amount of financial aid you need to apply for or borrow.
Determine your college, career, and life goals
Taking some time off before starting college can bring students clarity about what they want to do after high school. Time is money in college, and taking a break from school can help you save both while deciding what college, career, and life paths you are interested in pursuing.
What are the cons of taking a gap year?
You might lose momentum
During your gap year, it’s possible that you may lose the desire or momentum to attend college altogether. When considering taking one, set a timeline and stick to it as much as you can. Setting an end date to the year will help you prepare to take the necessary steps to begin college.
Note: If you decide to take a gap year, be sure to stay in touch with someone at your college’s admissions office throughout the year. They can keep you updated on what you will need to do in order to start school when you’re ready.
You will lose the help of a school counselor
If you decide to take a gap year, your high school counselor won’t be able to support you through the college application process (if you decide not to apply while you’re a senior). This means that it will be completely up to you to keep track of college application requirements and deadlines, find scholarships and understand your financial aid options, and navigate any issues that may arise throughout this process.
How can I make my gap year effective?
Take classes at a community college
Committing to four years of college can be intimidating for some. If you still want to work toward a degree but aren’t ready to commit to a four-year university, deferring your start and earning credits at your local community college is a great way to do so! Community colleges are great places to receive an education at a more affordable cost.
CityYear places volunteers in schools working directly to support students. You’ll earn a living stipend and build education-related professional skills.
Travel to experience other countries and cultures
Here are two examples, but you can search “Gap Year Programs” online to discover even more:
Australia’s Work and Holiday Visa Program offers a year-long travel and work visa to Australia for young adults (18-30) willing to work in high-need industries like conservation, construction, brush fire rehabilitation, and tourism/hospitality.
Before making a big decision, it’s important to talk with a parent or guardian. They can offer you advice and perspective, and together you can make a decision that works best for you.
Are you interested in attending one of the United States’ five military academies, but are not sure which one could be a good fit for you? Get to know a bit more about each of the academies below!
There are many career paths you can choose from to tap into your creativity, passions, and interests. Lots of them also might not need a four-year college degree to reach! A vocational trade school is a great option if you want to explore a certain career path while cutting down on the cost of a traditional four-year degree! If you are interested in serving others and have a passion for wellness and beauty, you might be a great candidate for working in the cosmetology field! Here are some important things to keep in mind if you’re considering attending a cosmetology school.
Who goes to cosmetology school?
Cosmetology is a broad term for services including hairdressing, makeup artistry, skin care, barbering, and manicuring. If you find yourself interested in any of those professions, enrolling in a cosmetology program may be right for you! Cosmetologists are creative, entrepreneurial, enjoy having a flexible schedule, and love to work with and serve people.
What does a cosmetology program entail?
There are three main types of cosmetology programs you might find: programs attached to community colleges, dedicated cosmetology schools, and apprenticeship programs. These programs will vary in the length of time they take to complete depending on their scope and focus. For example, while some programs will be part-time and specialize in a specific area of cosmetology, like hairdressing, others may take a more holistic approach. These types of programs may require students to study multiple different areas of cosmetology for completion, resulting in a longer amount of time spent in school. Community college programs might be shorter-term (six months to a year), while dedicated cosmetology schools like Sasoon Academy or Empire Beauty Schools may take a bit longer (1-2 years). There are also 21 states that have official apprenticeship programs for cosmetology that give students the opportunity to work in a salon and learn their trade from a mentor.
What kinds of classes are offered?
No matter what program you choose, you can expect to receive an education directly tied to jobs in the beauty and wellness industry. In addition to learning about core cosmetology skills and practices, these programs will likely also include classes about health and safety, customer service, and relationship building. These are important practical skills to have, especially if you plan to work in a public-facing business or dream to own a business after finishing your program!
The most important end goal for any program, no matter what career you choose to pursue within the wider cosmetology field, is that you feel prepared to take your state’s licensing exam– an exam you will need to pass in order to work. When researching programs, be sure to ask about how they’ll prepare you for this exam!
Each program will tailor your course of study to the requirements that your state has in place to receive a cosmetology license. You’ll likely take classes in facials, hairdressing for different types of hair, nail care, skin care, and makeup. If you want to open your own salon someday, you might also get to take classes in business management and entrepreneurship. No matter what program you end up choosing, your education will be hands-on, experimental, and tied directly to a job once you complete it!
How can I pay for cosmetology school?
Generally, cosmetology schools and programs are more affordable than most four-year colleges and universities. When deciding which cosmetology school or program to enroll in, it’s essential to ensure that it’s accredited. Only accredited schools and programs in the U.S. are eligible for federal financial aid. This means that if you attend an accredited school, you are able to complete the FAFSA and receive any federal aid you’re eligible for, such as scholarships, grants, and loans. Receiving federal aid can significantly reduce the money you spend attending school. You should be able to find out whether a school is accredited directly on their website or by checking out the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences.
Have you ever wondered what an apprenticeship is and what it can offer to your career? We’ll dive into what you need to know about apprenticeships, exploring their benefits and where to find opportunities in various high-demand industries near you!
An apprenticeship, also sometimes referred to as a “registered apprenticeship,” is a blend of education and career experience that allows someone to gain on-the-job training, paid work experience, classroom instruction, and a nationally recognized credential within their industry. Apprenticeships are common in the trades, such as carpentry, cosmetology, technology, and many more. However, as the demand for alternative pathways to careers has increased, apprenticeships are now being offered in industries such as health care, green energy, maritime, and education. These are great opportunities to learn, get paid, and earn crucial skills that can set you up for a successful career!
How do I find an apprenticeship?
If you’re interested in becoming an apprentice, you can look for an opportunity near you through Apprenticeship Finder. You can also contact employers or program sponsors directly for more information about their apprenticeship opportunities.
What are the benefits of an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships can open doors to hundreds of occupations, and are pathways to stable, well-paid, in-demand careers! According to Apprenticeship.gov, the average starting wage for an apprentice during training is more than $20 per hour, but can increase as an apprentice spends more time on the job and gains more skills. 90% percent of people who complete their apprenticeships retain employment with an average starting salary of $80,000. Compared to peers who don’t complete an apprenticeship program, apprentice graduates earn $300,000 more over their lifetime.
In addition to professional and financial benefits, apprenticeships also contribute to personal growth. Apprentices learn the value of discipline, responsibility, and continuous learning. These can be critical for long-term career success and personal development, regardless of the jobs you work!
What are some careers offered through apprenticeships?
Here are a few examples of jobs that typically have apprenticeships:
Succeeding in an apprenticeship involves a combination of preparation, active engagement, and continuous learning. Here are some essential tips to help you thrive:
Understand the commitment
Apprenticeships require a commitment of time and effort, similar to completing a bachelor’s degree in college. Be prepared to balance on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Understanding the demands and expectations of your specific program from the beginning can help you manage your time effectively.
Communicate proactively
Good communication is key in any workplace. Regularly communicate with your supervisors, expert apprentices, mentors, and colleagues. Don’t hesitate to ask for feedback and clarify any doubts you have about your tasks or the skills you’re learning. Effective communication will also help you build strong professional relationships. This is a proactive process, so your initiative will keep you engaged.
Seek mentorship
Having a mentor can provide valuable guidance and support. Normally in an apprenticeship, you will have the same instructors and experts in the field guide you for years. These are experienced professionals who may be willing to share their knowledge and guidance with you! A mentor can help you navigate the challenges of your apprenticeship, provide career advice, and be a key piece of your early career network.
Network and build relationships
Networking is an important part of professional growth. Take advantage of opportunities to meet and interact with professionals in your field. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with colleagues and mentors on LinkedIn.
Embrace challenges and stay resilient
Apprenticeships can be challenging, so it’s important to stay resilient. Embrace each challenge as a learning opportunity. Develop problem-solving skills and a positive attitude toward overcoming obstacles. Resilience will help you adapt to the demands of your apprenticeship and succeed in your career.
