Career Planning for Your Homeschooled High School Students

8 Real-Life Tips for the Road Ahead

1. A GED Isn't the Worst Case

In our family, a GED represents graduation, not failure. Yes, some people hear "GED" and equate it with dropping out of high school. But we see it from an employer's perspective. A high school diploma often means the student sat in class, which is important, but not enough. A GED proves a student met measurable math, writing, and reading comprehension standards—skills we've seen missing even in diploma holders.

2. Make College an Intentional Choice

College isn't a default next step—it's an investment. With rising tuition and uncertain job prospects, your student needs a clear purpose before enrolling. Does his calling or career path require a degree? Then yes, college might be essential. But if not, don't waste time and money. Learning should always serve a purpose.

3. Recognize the Value of On-the-Job Training

The second—and now third—generation Timberdoodlers started working before they even hit double digits. By age 10, they could restock inventory, assemble kits, manage product counts, and handle more than just taking out the trash. Real-world experience shaped their skills, taught them how to learn by doing, and prepared them to support themselves (and maybe even buy a round of milkshakes at the state fair). Around here, we know on-the-job training can be just as powerful—sometimes more—than a classroom ever could be.

4. Encourage Entrepreneurship

The second generation pooled some of their income into a family venture—Solid Rock Farm. While they didn't strike it rich raising livestock, they learned about investment, risk, yield, and hard work. Whether your teen launches a computer repair business or a cleaning service, encourage him to use his skills to build something real. Even if the business fails, the lessons stick for life.

5. Start Planning Early

Don't wait until senior year to think about the future. Find out what your teen's field of interest requires. Some careers want transcripts; others care more about SAT scores, portfolios, resumes, or hands-on tests. Schedule interviews with industry professionals. Read trade magazines. Take notes. Map it out. The earlier you start, the more prepared your teen will be.

6. Plan Smart—But Start Moving

Planning matters, but don't get stuck in it. Some teens research endlessly and never take action. Others leap into a program only to discover their credits won't transfer. Find the balance, do the research, make the call, and then move forward.

7. Match the Career to the Kid

Some teens know what they want and already show natural talent. Others feel lost. Take an honest look at your teen's strengths and preferences. Does your child hate reading? Don't aim for med school. Love working outdoors? Skip the desk job. Compassionate teens might thrive as EMTs, teachers, or caregivers. Align his work with who he is, not just what sounds impressive.

8. Volunteer Early and Often

Find a real-world need your teen can meet, and let him serve. The future chef can volunteer in a soup kitchen. The organizer can help a nonprofit. We loved volunteering at the hospital and the fire department. Not sure where to start? Try your church or neighborhood. Assign volunteer hours as part of school—they count. Volunteering reveals what your teen enjoys, where he excels, and what kind of work might surprise him. Better to learn now than after years of training!