Bridging the gap: a program to guide students beyond secondary education

Abstract

Upon graduation from high school, students in the United States are expected to make a decision about their future. These options range from entering military service, pursuing higher education, or entering the work force. In an effort to more appropriately prepare high school students for the choices they will make in the future, this project aims to offer research and proposals on a program guide to be implemented during a student’s third year of high school. The resources identified in this guide will offer a discussion on pursuing higher education, including a breakdown of various types of higher education and degrees, the financial responsibilities associated with pursing such degrees, preliminary area of study discovery, and holistic student development during these formative years. This project is aimed at a population that is not necessarily served by the student affairs field. However, in order to promote student success and wellness in higher education, preparing future students for higher education has much to offer. By preparing and equipping high school students with accurate information about higher education, before they enroll at a college or university, student affairs professionals will be able to more accurately assist first year students in the pursuit of their goals. This project aims to combine research and creativity to ease the transition between secondary school and higher education.