Traditionally, success in today’s society is determined by whether or not you go to college, what your job is and how much money you make. However, Gen Z has been open to new ideas of what success is.
Whether it is creating new jobs that accommodate their lifestyles or choosing an untraditional career path, success after high school no longer has one restrictive definition in today’s world.
Many students have been told a very specific version of what success looks like after high school: go straight to college, get a degree, land a high-paying job and live happily ever after. But in today’s world, success after high school looks a lot different.
Ayden Alger (he/him), 11, said, “To me, success is being rich. I want to take over my dad’s business after high school and help it grow.”
More students are realizing that there isn’t just one “right” path to a successful life. Some graduates go to four-year universities, while others head to community college, join the military or start working full-time. Take a gap year to travel, volunteer or just figure out what they want before making their next move.
The truth is, success is undefined, and that’s a good thing. For some people, success might mean getting a degree and building a career. For others, it might mean pursuing a passion, starting a family, learning a trade or simply feeling fulfilled in everyday life.
“There are many ways you can be successful, you don’t just have to go to college or take a traditional path, not everyone finds has to that way. After high school, I’ll be doing what I love,” said Alger.
Teachers, counselors and even employers are starting to recognize that real success isn’t just about how impressive your résumé looks, but it’s about skills, determination and the ability to adapt and keep growing.
As students prepare to leave the halls of high school, it’s important to remember that it’s okay if your future isn’t linear, but what truly matters is important to you.
