In the 21st Century, HS Graduates have a Host of Next-Stage Education Options. Having Choices is Helpful, but Makes the Decisions More Complex

In the mid-1980s, the American economy shifted rapidly from manufacturing-based to knowledge based. This was the beginning of the digital era that brought desktop-computing,, revolutionary software capability, and the internet.  The workplace upheaval led to loss of 2/3rds of American manufacturing jobs, many obsoleted by technology, many others lost to overseas competitors. 

        A dark period of job search began.  The idea of wide-spread vocational education was in its infancy, and the concept was harmed by for-profit schools that overpromised and overcharged, ITT Institute being a much publicized example. 

1. Alternative education can be a direct avenue to a career role, in a skill requirement sense possibilities include well established roles such as "the trades" or newer certificate program leading to beginning role in fields such as coding and cybersecurity. 
2. Two or more alternative avenues can be combined in your "Multi-Path" plan. Purpose might be specific skill requirements, personal and technical, and a period of growth and preparation before stepping into a 4-year degree program. 
3. Use of Gap Years as a positive part of the plan. Reasons can include employment to build financial resources, ideally connected to the eventual career category, a period of recognized need for personal growth, with time management and study habits being examples that might be needed before tackling the next educational level.