The Senior Year Game Plan Podcast: Internships and Certifications

Summary In this episode of the Senior Year Game Plan, host Michele Ehrlich, US Army veteran, educator, career author and strategist discusses the importance of exploring career opportunities beyond traditional four-year college degrees. Joined by high school senior Amarie Biroo, they delve into the value of learning skills, vocational training, and alternative pathways such as apprenticeships and CTE programs. The conversation emphasizes the need for hands-on experience, the benefits of skills-based careers, and actionable steps for students to take in their career exploration journey. Keywords career opportunities, vocational training, high school seniors, skills training, college alternatives, CTE programs, apprenticeships, internships, job shadowing, online certifications Takeaways Learning a skill can be as valuable as a degree. High school seniors have options beyond college. Vocational training can lead to high-paying jobs. Hands-on experience builds confidence and skills. CTE programs offer career-focused education. Free training programs like Per Scolas exist. Internships provide real-world experience. Exploring careers can be done without long-term commitment. Online certifications are affordable and accessible. It's important to take proactive steps in career exploration. Sound Bites "Don't despair if you missed college applications." "There are alternatives to four-year colleges." "You can earn money sooner with skills-based careers." "Per Scolas offers free IT training." "CTE programs can lead to high-demand jobs." "Hands-on experience builds confidence for the future." "You can explore careers without long-term commitment." "Take one step at a time in your career exploration." "Explore options beyond the four-year college path." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Career Opportunities 01:00 The Value of Learning Skills vs. Degrees 03:44 Exploring Alternatives to College 10:35 The Importance of Skills-Based Careers 14:46 Programs for Skills Training 21:43 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Programs 27:13 Hands-On Learning and Internships 32:09 Exploring Career Options Without Long-Term Commitment 46:11 Actionable Steps for Career Exploration