1. Community Colleges & Certificate Programs… other options that work! Senior Class Advisory February 1, 2016

2. Is Community College for me?  A bachelor’s degree is not for everyone. Community colleges offer programs for students who simply aren’t looking for a four- year degree or for students who are looking for specialized education.  Check out a recent U.S. News & World Report article on attending a community college http://www.usnews.com/education/communit y-colleges/slideshows/10-reasons-to-attend- a-community-college http://www.usnews.com/education/communit y-colleges/slideshows/10-reasons-to-attend- a-community-college

3.  Of the new U.S. jobs in this decade, 65% will require technical education beyond high school. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)  Nearly 12 million students are enrolled in America's community colleges. These students make up 44 percent of all undergraduates. (National Center for Education Statistics - 2010) Two-thirds of community college students attend part- time.  In 2010-11, average tuition and fees for a full-time student enrolled in a public two-year community college are $2,713, compared to $7,605 at public four-year institutions and significantly higher levels at private for-profit and nonprofit institutions. Research and Statistics

4. Options after high school include many paths….

5. One Way includes: The FOUR YEAR Degree… This path is not for everyone… Ask yourself these questions: 1) Does the job I am seeking require this? 2) Am I a dedicated student capable of competing for SELECT jobs that require a bachelor’s degree? 3) What is the job outlook for my career of study? 4) Can I start with an associate degree?  If you choose the path of the bachelor’s degree, really make sure you focus on a career and understanding what career choices you have once you’ve earned your degree. The last thing you need to do is earn an 4-year degree and not have a clue what jobs are available to you after you graduate.

6. Another Way Includes …Certificate Programs Offered at Community Colleges 18 months or less to attain most certificates Focus education on specific skills needed in industry or profession Get the skills needed in professions that are in high demand Get direct link to the job market with your specific course of study

7. More on Certificate Programs Check out this link describing the 15 best certificates for today’s job market http://www.onlinecollege.org/2012/ 07/19/the-15-best-certificates- todays-job-market/ http://www.onlinecollege.org/2012/ 07/19/the-15-best-certificates- todays-job-market/

8. What do you need to consider when deciding on what career to pursue? JOBS AVAILABLE JOB PLACEMENT CAREER LADDERS TRAINING REQUIRED YOUR SKILLS YOUR INTERESTS

9. Explore Careers by… Interviewing people you come into contact with….if a job looks interesting… learn more Websites Volunteering Job Shadowing TV Shows Career Fairs

10. When deciding on a path after high school…. Focus on post-secondary success not on college admissions If the goal is a better job, then do not confuse education with occupational skills Know the odds and know the costs Certificate programs at community colleges offer many paths to many different in-demand careers If you are still undecided for life after high school, investigate the community college system. There are many rewarding career opportunities available through certificate programs.