When it comes to high school education, students sometimes encounter situations where they need to consider alternatives such as GED testing, high school credits, or community colleges. For a 17-year-old facing high school academic delays, the decision between taking the GED test and continuing with high school can significantly impact their future.
This article delves into the pros and cons of each option and how community colleges can serve as a bridge to four-year universities.
The GED Option
The General Educational Development (GED) test is an alternative credential that measures an individual’s high school-level academic skills. Taking the GED can be a quicker route to obtaining a high school equivalency diploma. For students who are struggling to keep up with the traditional high school pace or have personal reasons for not completing high school on time, the GED offers a chance to move forward. However, some colleges and employers may view a GED diploma differently than a traditional high school diploma. According to ETS, the organization that administers the GED, while many institutions accept GED graduates, certain competitive programs may prefer traditional high school graduates.
Sticking with High School Credits
Continuing with high school credits has its own advantages. Students who stay in high school have the opportunity to engage in a more comprehensive educational experience, including extracurricular activities, which can enhance college applications. High schools also provide a structured environment with teachers and counselors who can offer support. On the downside, academic delays might mean a longer time to graduate, and students may face increased pressure to catch up. For example, they may need to take additional courses during the summer or after school to meet graduation requirements.
Making the decision between GED testing and high school credits requires careful consideration of one’s goals and circumstances. Once this decision is made, community colleges can offer a valuable path to further education. Many community colleges have programs designed to transfer credits to four-year universities. As stated on the American Association of Community Colleges website, these institutions provide an affordable and accessible way for students to start their academic journey and eventually transfer to a four-year institution.
Readability guidance: By presenting the options clearly and using short paragraphs, we can better understand the choices between GED testing, high school credits, and the role of community colleges. Each option has its own set of pros and cons, and it’s important for students to weigh them carefully. Whether choosing the GED route or sticking with high school credits, community colleges can be a great stepping stone to achieving long-term academic goals.
