After High School

Your child is getting ready to graduate from high school, or maybe has just graduated, now what?  If your son is 18, he needs to register for Selective Service.  He can do that online by going to the Selective Service System website.  After high school, there are many choices for your child:  going to work, continuing their education, entering the Armed Forces, starting an apprenticeship, and so on… 

Entering the Workforce 

If your child is preparing to enter the world of work, here are some tips:

Job Listings

Many people use Want Ads to search for a job.  This is a great place to start, but don't limit yourself!  If you are looking for a state job in Missouri, visit the Missouri Division of Personnel website and be prepared to complete an online application.  If you want to find a job with the federal government, visit USAJOBS to search for jobs nationwide.  Again, you will need to complete an online application.  Missouri Career Source is a state-supported job search engine where you can enter your information, and where employers may look for potential candidates.

Networking

Another great way to look for job is by networking.  Networking is critical, as most jobs are found by talking to people you know.  They may know of unpublished jobs, or call you the minute one is posted.  The people in your network also make for great references.

Don't be embarrassed to ask everyone you know at church, at your child's school, or within the organizations to which you belong, if they know about any job openings. 

Resources

Below are some links to ideas and resources that you may find helpful as you look for work:

Education

Preparing to Enter College

If your child is considering going on to further his or her education, be sure to have them complete the application for federal student aid (FAFSA) to see if they qualify for assitance.

Also, be sure they talk to the financial aid department at the schools they are interested in attending, and that they talk to their guidance counselor about opportunities for scholarships.

Financial Aid

Entrance Testing

Armed Forces

If your child is considering a career in the military, check out the military website for information on the ASVAB test they will need to take.

For information on each branch of the service, to help your child choose the branch that is best for him or her, visit http://www.military.com.

Apprenticeship

If your child is considering learning a trade through an apprenticeship program, the Department of Labor website has information on how to do this.  You can always check with your local Missouri Career Center for local opportunities.