Ever wonder if there is a way to gain career experience while still in high school? Well, according to a recent New York Times article there exists a way to gain career preparation prior to college (or without going to college), but the importance of a college education is still emphasized.

This new high school program, known as a career academy, has recently gained extra attention and popularity. The National Academy Foundation (www.naf.org) heads the program and there are more than 2,500 career academies in the US today. Career academies, found mostly within low-income areas, combine job placement, college preparation, and classes to go beyond the old high school non-college track. The academies offer paid internships and jobs. The programs also include emphasis on subject areas that are usually not studied before attendance at a college. The areas include business, tourism, accounting, and much more.

A recent study performed on students who participated in these career academies showed that there are significant and lasting affects among these low-income teenagers, who many times believe they cannot have career success and experience self-doubt about pursuing a college education . With the help of these career academies, these high school students are able to build the confidence they need to attend college. So even though many are career ready, college is still part of the plan. And this is the message high schools which participate in this program hope to relay.

Remember these important facts. College allows you to explore your career field in a more in depth way. You’re able to meet people along the way who share your interests and therefore you are able to network. Also, college graduates make much more than those with a high school diploma or GED. These are the reasons why everyone continues to stress the importance of college.

To read this New York Times article in its entirety and learn more about this study, click here .

- Priscilla Rodriguez