3 Ways to Explore Career Paths with Your Experimental Learner

3 Ways to Explore Career Paths with Your Experimental Learner

It's the fall semester - a time when many high school seniors juggle college application deadlines and thoughts about choosing a major. But not everyone is interested in taking a traditional route. (And that's OK!) Some students don't want to learn by sitting in a lecture hall. They prefer to work outdoors. Others might dream of being their own boss.

For parents of experimental learners, the key to success, as with the college prep path, is careful research and planning. It's never too early to help your child explore their postsecondary options, whether they want to build and sell their own furniture, learn to install HVAC systems or manage a restaurant. And if you have saved for their postsecondary education with a Florida 529 Prepaid Plan or 529 Savings Plan, the great news is that the savings can be applied to lots of scenarios, including trade or technical school.

To help you out, we consulted the experts, who shared three tips for parents helping experimental high school students navigate the next chapter:

• Know What's Possible. The sooner you talk to your child about what they want to do after high school graduation, the better. Factors to consider include their interests, skills and personality. For students in Florida, a great starting place is Get There, a statewide workforce education initiative that connects experimental learners to vocational and technical schools and programs.
• Explore the World of Skilled Trades. Some students prefer working with their hands - and they are good at it. If this is your child, introduce them to the idea of a skilled trade or apprenticeship. Many industries are experiencing skilled worker shortages, so the timing couldn't be better. Jobs in welding technology, aircraft mechanics, and construction management are expected to grow steadily in the next decade.
• Consider Entrepreneurship. The current job market has grown increasingly reliant on gig workers and freelancers filling all kinds of niches. If your student has dreams of monetizing a unique talent, service or product, resources abound for building their own business. Across Florida, there are entrepreneurial certificate and degree programs at Florida State University, Eastern Florida State College, the University of South Florida and Florida Gulf Coast University.

No matter how uncertain their path might be right now, you're doing the right thing by helping them explore all the options!

Have more questions? We've got answers! Explore our Frequently Asked Questions to learn more about our Prepaid Plans and Savings Plan. And click here to start your savings now!