As graduation and college acceptance season rolls around, you’ll hear more upperclassmen begin to fret about making it in the real world. Many of them don’t feel as though their educational career so far has helped them develop most of the necessary skills they’ll need to thrive independently.
While school has taught students how to work in teams, meet a deadline, and maintain academic standards, most students have never been taught how to write a check, how to read a pay stub, or even basic cooking and car maintenance skills. A lot of high schools offer some type of family and consumer science classes; however, they are high demand electives. A majority of kids who sign up fail to get the course on their final schedule due to limited space or a shortage of teachers.
“We have economics, but you have to wait until senior year to take it,” said junior Madi Cassidy. “[Students should have access to] a wider range of options.” Her point is also the opinion of many students who want to feel confident to live an independent life as an adult but feel that their needs aren’t being met.
Some believe that there should be a required class that teaches young adults financial literacy, housing and career planning. Since so many students are too busy building transcripts to appeal to the standards of colleges and universities, they often forget to nourish their own needs first.
High school should not only prepare kids for the college courses and tests they’re going to take but also prepare them for their home life, how to look for and purchase a house, understanding family and future relationships, budgeting and so much more.
You can’t learn everything at school, but there is definitely room for improvement so graduates don’t feel so overwhelmed during the beginning of their adult life.
