If you think there's only one educational path to success, think again.

#QuestionTheQuo

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Check out our latest survey data

Our 2023 national survey of Gen Z teens shows that shifts in high schoolers’ needs and wants for their future education and careers extend beyond the pandemic.

What does it mean to Question The Quo?

There is no single “right” way to achieve educational goals. Students need to know their options.

Featured resource

The U.S. Department of Labor offers a free tool called My Next Move that helps students uncover career possibilities and identify education pathways related to their interests.

Gen Z teens share their thoughts about the future

High school students share their stories and the challenges they face when deciding on a path for their future.

WE PARTNERED WITH VICE TO ASK TEENS ABOUT THEIR FUTURE.

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More than 50% of teens are open to something other than four-year college.

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65% of teens believe education after high school is necessary–but half aren’t considering four-year college.

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68% of teens are confident in their future–Now they just need to find the right path.

WHAT'S THE RIGHT PATH FOR YOU?

Choosing an education path after high school can be daunting, but there are options that can get you started in your career quicker than others.

The most common pathways are four-year college, community college or junior college, and career and technical education. If you're hoping for a shorter pathway that helps you graduate with less debt and a specific career in mind, it might be time to look into your options.

Explore your options using this free tool.

Some possible careers that don't require a four-year degree:

HEALTHCARE
BUSINESS
TECHNOLOGY
AGRICULTURE
CONSTRUCTION
MANUFACTURING

WHY QUESTION THE STATUS QUO IN EDUCATION?

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Only 13% of teens feel prepared to make a decision about their education and career path after high school.

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Nearly half of teens say their ideal education path would take three years or fewer to complete.

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62% of teens worry about how they will pay for education after high school.

WHAT ANSWERS?

Check out ECMC's free student resources.