Sep 21, 2016 08:35 AM EDT By Beth Golden, UniversityHerald Reporter

A brand new school year usually means making minor adjustments but for senior high school students, it means making life-changing decisions.

Taking the right direction after high school is daunting since most students don't know what they really want right off the bat. Since this is a decision that will affect your lifestyle for the next few years, it is important to know your education options.

Most schools have projects which aims to guide students through the decision-making process. Both parents and students can also check online resources to get some ideas on how to get started.

Now is the best time to begin searching if you haven't made up your mind yet.

Here are some tips to help you take steps in the right direction:

1. Determine the degree. What do you want to learn? How much time can you commit? After high school, students have the option to choose the next step in their education in terms of what you want to learn. It can be a specific trade or vocation or an associate degree if not a bachelor's degree. Those who are keen on serving can also choose to join the military.

2. Major is not a problem. Knowing what you want for your major is good but it's not necessarily required. Remember that going to college exposes you to more fields of specialization and career options. This is something that you can identify and pick up as you go.

3. Get the experience. While most colleges and universities have websites that offer information about their programs and student life, it better to visit the campus when possible. The experience can help but if this is not an option, you can also try and talk to someone who attended these schools that you hope to get into.

4. Get some head start. Some high schools offer dual-credit classes. Here, students earn units that are creditable both for their high school and college requirements. There are different kinds of these programs and you can talk to your guidance counsellors about these since these can definitely save you time and money.

5. Taking time off. It's not unusual for high school graduates to postpone their education. There are a number of reasons behind this. For some it's financial challenges, others take internships and do social work, while some takes the time to explore and travel. If you have plans to take time off, ask your prospective schools for their policies on delayed admissions.

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