What Now? A Teen Guide to Life After High School

July 15, 2023
A practical survey of post-high school options including, but not limited to, higher education. Sheen offers a straightforward and readable discussion of life after high school, warmly encouraging personal exploration in the introduction: "It is normal to be uncertain about the future....No decision is irrevocable....Even those individuals who seem to know exactly what they want frequently wind up veering onto a different path." Five chapters outline a range of possible next steps, their pros and cons, multiple anecdotes, and suggestions for further research. "Preparing and Exploring" offers advice for decision-making, with tips for understanding personal strengths and weaknesses and concrete ideas on resources and timelines. "Going to College" discusses continuing education in both four-year and two-year settings, with practical tips for finding a good fit and introductory information on the application process and financial aid. "Opting for Technical and Vocational Training" discusses program basics in technical and creative fields. "Joining the Workforce" surveys the pros and cons of going straight to work and the opportunities teens can expect, including entrepreneurship and joining the military. "Taking a Gap Year" defines this option for an American audience and lists possibilities such as traveling, learning new skills, and volunteering. Stock photography depicting racially diverse individuals matches the text throughout. Pull quotes highlight important points in each section and enhance readability. A slim volume of serviceable suggestions to shape a teen's next steps. (source notes, organizations and websites, further research, index, picture credits) (Nonfiction. 14-18)

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February 1, 2024

Gr 9 Up-Thinking about life after graduating high school can be a source of turmoil for many teens. Choosing a college or university, deciding to find a job, or considering attending a trade school are all viable options but not always presented as post-secondary possibilities. In this slim but thorough book, Sheen walks teens through each of these choices, while also introducing them to other options, such as taking a gap year to explore passion projects. The material is well organized and easy to follow. Engaging quotes and stories from real teens help bring the information in the text to life, and while the book uses many stock images, it evenly displays teens from various ethnicities and cultures. Back matter includes websites, U.S.-based organizations, and books that offer more information about finding scholarships and financial aid or on seeking a job or apprenticeship. VERDICT A solid introductory guide to options a teen can pursue post-high school, this is recommended for all high school collections.-Chelsey Masterson

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