If you think college is the only way to get experience, you might be missing out on some cool chances to learn and earn money at the same time! The Hire Gulf Coast Youth (HGCY) program is a great place to start. It helps kids and teens learn job skills, try out real work, and get paid, without needing to borrow money for school by for example enrolling into an internship or an apprenticeship.
What’s the Difference? Internships, Apprenticeships, and Cool Paths After High School
Not everyone needs to go to a big, expensive college to have a great job one day. There are other fun and smart ways to learn and start a career.
Internship vs. Apprenticeship
An internship is like a short test-run of a job. You might do it in the summer or during school. It helps you learn what it’s like to work in a real job, and sometimes you even get paid! But it doesn’t always lead to a full-time job.
For example, you can be a Social Media intern this summer and create content related to the local zoo for TikTok and Instagram.
An apprenticeship is a longer program (1 to 4 years). You get paid from the beginning and learn a job by doing it, like being a chef or an electrician. You also go to classes. At the end, you usually get a certificate and a full-time job.
For example, you can land into an Electrician Apprenticeship and then learn to fix wiring, install light fixtures, and solve electrical problems.
Other Learning Options After High School
- Community College: Takes about 2 years. You can learn about lots of different things and maybe transfer to a big college later. For example, at a community college like Austin Community College, you can take courses in business, arts, or science, and after two years, you can earn an Associate’s Degree. You can also transfer your credits to a big university later, like the University of Texas.
- Trade School: Teaches you how to do one job really well, like fixing cars or doing hair. It’s faster and gets you ready to work right away. For example, at Texas State Technical College (TSTC), you can enroll in their Welding Technology Program. In just 9-12 months, you’ll learn welding techniques and get hands-on training in state-of-the-art labs.
- Certification Programs: Short classes (a few weeks or months) that prove you’re good at one thing, like computer stuff or first aid. For example, you can take a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) course at a place like Lone Star College. This certification shows you know how to take care of patients and can help you get a job in hospitals or nursing homes.
How Long and How Much?
- Community College: Around 2 years, usually the cheapest
- Trade School: Less than 2 years, cost depends
- Certifications: Just weeks or months, cost varies
Build Your Future with Workforce Solutions
At Workforce Solutions, we believe every kid and teen deserves a chance to find a job they love. That’s why we have programs to help you learn job skills, try out real jobs, and get ready for your future, especially if you have a disability and need extra support.
- The Summer Earn and Learn (S.E.A.L.) gives students with disabilities paid jobs during the summer! You’ll work with local businesses and get help from caring adults who want to see you succeed.
- Not sure what job you want? Our Career Exploration site lets you discover cool careers, watch videos, and learn what it takes to do different jobs, like working with animals, computers, or in healthcare.
- Want to finish your GED and learn job skills at the same time? NextGen Youth helps you do both. You can also get certifications, internships, and even help finding money for college. Plus, you’ll build leadership skills and meet coaches who’ll guide you along the way.
Your Future Starts Here. No matter where you’re starting, Workforce Solutions has tools, mentors, and fun ways to help you find the right path. We’re here to help you dream big, and make it happen!
