When I was assigned this article I was very hesitant and shocked at the thought of doing anything after high school that wasn’t university oriented! Post-secondary education was something I knew I was going to do directly after high school, and that was that. If you are in the same boat that I was in a few weeks ago -  where you're set on some form of post-secondary education as your intermediate life plan, you will find this piece very useful. Whether you plan on attending university or college, let me share some of the endless opportunities out there for us that doesn’t necessarily involve education.

Before I start listing all of the youth opportunities I have discovered within the past few weeks of research on this topic, let me start by saying something important that needs to be taken into account when planning your next step in life: Discover yourself. After high school you are probably as free as you’ll ever be. Take a year off to grow and discover you! Get to know yourself by examining your interests, strengths, weaknesses, passions and values. You never know what path you will walk down or where you will end up. Truly consider this advice.

There are several avenues in addition to traditional colleges or universities after high school. One option is traveling. I am sure you all have seen the movies or listened to your parents or a family friend talk about their experience backpacking through Europe or visiting Africa. Break out of the ordinary and submerge yourself in a world of wonder and self-discovery. Also, when you travel, don’t just immerse yourself in the hotels of different countries. Immerse yourself with the people and get the true exotic experience!

If you’re not up for travel, why not work for a year? Nothing says “cha-ching” like a bank account full of money for your future plans. If you haven’t had a chance to look at the average cost for a semester of post secondary education, brace yourself; it's high. The average cost of post-secondary education is no joke and is an investment worth researching. It might be a good idea to work to earn some money to help finance your future. Students leaving high school are encouraged to visit their local youth employment center for help finding a job that best suites their needs.

Don’t need a job? Why not volunteer? There are endless opportunities out there for youth to volunteer. Volunteering can be done locally or even abroad. How sweet is that?!? If you don’t want to volunteer for a specific organization, why not be the founder of something new? Think about it, you could be the next Craig Keilburger! Volunteering after high school gives you a chance to compose a plan and make your dreams come true.

Need a job but want to learn a skilled trade at the same time? Take an apprenticeship. An apprenticeship is a workplace-based training program for people who want to work in a skilled trade. There are over 1000 different types of apprenticeships offered in Ontario. Apprentices earn while they learn. They also fuel the engine of a strong economy. Check out www.apprenticesearch.com for more details.

Not interested in apprenticeships? You can train in a specific sport for a year. To have what it takes to play sports in a post-secondary institute or professionally requires a great deal of commitment to training. A year off can give you the time and peace of mind you need to participate in exceptional training.

Thinking of a more heroic use of your time after high school? Why not join the Canadian Forces? Make history serving your country while earning some cash to finance your future. The men and women in the Canadian Forces allow the military to play an important role both at home and abroad. The Canadian forces offer unique, challenging and rewarding careers. Check out www.forces.ca for more detail.

Not thinking of a big step like the Canadian Forces? Consider an exchange program. There are so many exchange programs in many different areas. You can take an international language studies exchange. Learn French, German, Chinese, Spanish, etc. while also living in the culture with the language of your choice. If a language exchange is not your interest, take an exchange program with a religious focus. Learning more about your religion or someone else’s religion can be the light you need for a bright future ahead.

Want to be the next inspiring leader? Why not spend a year in a leadership position. Think of applying to represent Canadian youth with the United Nations. Or how about applying to a mentorship program that helps other youth in areas of your strengths? More options include applying to be a youth ambassador across Canada. Like politics? Why not voice the concerns of youth by working with a local MP? Like children? Why not take leadership positions to guide youth? Taking a leadership opportunity after high school can be a life changing experience that will give you a chance to leave a footprint behind.

Graduating high school students have many options after high school that do not necessarily involve college or university. The above ideas are just a mere snapshot of countless things you can do. Consider taking the time after high school to get to know yourself better. Gain knowledge in subjects you will never experience in any textbook. This experience of self-discovery may paint a clearer picture of your future or even reroute your current plans. Always remember your future is unlimited. Be honest with yourself and do what your heart tells you. You only live once. Why not start after high school?