If Traditional 4 Year College Isn’t For You

College is a huge, time-consuming, expensive commitment. Maybe you can’t afford it, or maybe you just don’t want to go. A four-year school isn’t your only option. Consider some of the following paths if you’re not ready for a 4 year college:

Gap Year:

Take some time off school while you work. Find organizations to volunteer with, travel, save money, read a lot, and discover what really interests you.

Community College:

Students who want to attend school but aren’t sure what to study should consider community college. Community colleges are low cost, offer several courses, and if students meet all curriculum requirements, they’ll receive an associate’s degree after two years. Most classes will transfer to whatever four-year program students choose.

Trade or Vocational School:

Typically completed in two years or less, trade or vocational Schools prepare you for a specific job, including occupational therapy assistant, sound engineering technician, web developer, crane operator and more.

 
“There are students that didn’t do so well in high school and then they get to community college and they find success. It is a great equalizer. You have students that are bound for university and have every advantage in the world, then you have students that have stumbled along the way who are looking for a way to reset. It is a supportive, diverse place.”
--- Beth Wright – Career, Advising and Personal Counselor, Central Oregon Community College
 

Enlist in the Military:

Gain confidence, discipline and leadership skills. If you decide to go back to college later in life, completing your service can provide benefits such as financial aid and home purchase assistance.

Cosmetology School:

If hair, skin and nails call to you, consider cosmetology school. Programs are flexible and can be completed in as little as 12 months.

Entry-Level Job:

Explore different fields and see if you can get your foot in the door with an entry level position. At six months to a year, you will have a pretty good idea about whether or not this is the career path you want. Don’t forget to save!

 
“Gap years come in all shapes and sizes, including travel to experience other cultures, enrolling in adventure programs such as NOLS (the National Outdoor Leadership School), working, participating in Americorps, etc. Opportunities are endless.”
--- Lauren Covington – Bozeman High School College and Career Center Coordinator