Now What? Non-College Opportunities for High School Graduates

The title of this guide to post-high school opportunities is slightly misleading, as further education (such as junior college or vocational/technical school) is actually emphasized throughout the program, which is structured as a series of testimonials from real-life young people who have built viable careers without four-year degrees. Viewers will meet a plumbing apprentice, a custom cabinetry draftsman, an aircraft technician, a medical center manager, a Coast Guardswoman, and a small-business manager, who all talk about their career decisions, what steps they took for preparation, and the skills required for their jobs. Proficiency in communication, math, and computer literacy are also emphasized, and the program underscores the importance of matching personality and individual interests with a potential career when considering options (in addition, joining the military is presented as an alternative means of gaining on-the-job training, as well as helping to fund a future college education). While not as practical as it might have been—the program serves up personal stories as examples rather than “how-to” specifics—this title does fill an important need for high school students who are not planning to take the traditional four-year university route right out of high school. Recommended. Aud: H, P. (E. Gieschen)