For all of you recent graduates out there and those who want to start later in life, the next big question is, what’s next? It’s a big question that we have all had to face, and sometimes it isn’t easily answered. From being burned out of school, unsure of what direction you want to go in life, and the list can go on. Don’t worry though, we are here to help you out a little by showing what our local community has to offer you. Your first thought may be college, many people will tell you it is the only way to get a reasonably good-paying job. While college isn’t for everyone it definitely can help you in showing that you are capable of learning and growing. Listed below are options for local colleges and what they offer.
Austin Peay is a local staple as many of our residents, some of whom have come from other states and countries have gone here and graduated. Austin Peay State University offers both traditional in class learning and online learning depending on the courses. They offer over 200 courses of study! From Accounting and Agriculture, Business to Teaching, and even World languages, with much more in between. Here you can pursue your associates, bachelors, masters, or even your doctoral degrees. Plus its proximity to downtown gives you an influx of our local culture with music, food, and hospitality.
Next on the list is actually in McKenzie, Tennessee, with a satellite school here in Clarksville. Bethel University offers a smaller program list but has many options for online learning. Their online programs are set up so that you can succeed in your journey by offering a limitless supply of writing and researching help, and an online library to compare to no other. So, if you’re living a busy life but still want to pursue higher education, Bethel is a great option to look into.
Maybe prolonged school isn’t for you, or you want to be able to have technical skills that can land you those higher paying hourly jobs. Nashville State offers 7 different programs in the associate level that focus on getting you ready for the job market or to help extend those skills you may already have. What’s even better is that many can be completed in up to two years!
Still looking for something that is more skills and trades focused? TCAT has 19 different programs that all focus on certifying you in the field of your choice. Aesthetician, welder, HVAC systems? These are just a few of the programs that can help start your journey into a great career.
If classrooms aren’t your thing but you still want to learn a trade then perhaps the union trades is for you. While there is some classroom work that has to be done, the majority of your training is done on the job under a journeyman.
- IBEW – Electrical
- UA – Pipefitters
- Boilermakers
- Bricklayers
- Carpenters
And many, many more. Just visit tnbctc.org for more info.
Whatever your path is, I wish you the best of luck!
