It is common to feel uncertain after high school graduation. Many people might have expectations for you that are not in line with what you want to do. Some former students choose to apply for colleges or universities and secure a job to pay for continuing their education. Others decide or are obligated to serve their country for several years, and sometimes even make a career out of it. Still other former students take time off school, put off work, and relax. After a decade or so of compulsory education, depending on the country, there is usually nothing wrong with taking a breather to decide what is next for you.
Some parents encourage their children to have fun for six months to a year before moving on with their livs. Other parents are against the idea because of their beliefs that putting off post-secondary education makes attending in the future less likely. While considering your parents’ thoughts on the matter is important, the decision is ultimately yours. On the other hand, rushing into a degree or career that is not what you want may seem like a waste of time, but it can turn into a learning experience that leads you to something more substantial.
A significant portion of young adults apply for college after high school graduation. Often, they are unsure of what they want to learn but know they can choose a major later or even switch majors. Once again, there might be people who expect you to attend college soon after high school graduation, but this is also your choice. While it is generally recommended to get post-secondary education, successful people like Bill Gates of Microsoft® and Mary Kay Ash of Mary Kay Cosmetics® are college dropouts. These people are the exception rather than the rule, however.
In some cultures, it is considered normal for a young adult to move away from his or her parents after high school graduation. Other cultures expect the child to stay until moving closer to a school or job or until the child wants to have a family of his or her own. There is no right or wrong here, but it is probably best to talk with your parents about the living situation, especially if you have decided to take a break from school.
After high school graduation, some people decide to serve their country by joining a military. Others are obligated to receive some sort of training, though it is often considered an honor. Either way, it is common to put off post-secondary education for military training. Generally, a military recruiter can answer questions about what a military is like, how to join, and if military life is for you.