20 questions for high school graduates (that aren’t about college)
College isn’t the only path to success, and it’s important for the adults in teens’ lives—family members, teachers, coaches, and others—to acknowledge the value of diverse paths that don’t include a four-year degree. Below are 20 questions to ask soon-to-be graduates that celebrate a wider range of options for life after high school.
High school reflections:
Do you have a favorite high school memory?
Which teacher or staff member had the biggest impact on you? Why?
Which peers or friends had really positive influences on you? Why?
What extracurricular activity are you most proud of participating in?
Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your freshman self?
Looking forward:
What are you most excited about in this next phase of your life?
Do you have any travel plans or adventures on the horizon?
Is there a new skill you're eager to learn or a hobby you want to explore?
Do you plan to stay connected with your friends from high school?
In what ways might you help or care for others, whether it be through service or ordinary acts of kindness
“What are you most excited about in this next phase of your life? What are you most passionate about right now?”
Beyond school:
What are you most passionate about right now?
Is there a cause you'd like to volunteer for or support in the future?
What fictional character or celebrity do you identify with? Why?
What's your favorite book or movie? Why does it resonate with you?
If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
Just for fun:
Are there any NON-school related movies or books you're excited to dig into?
What’s one dish you’d like to learn how to cook?
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and how would you use it?
What's your dream vacation?
What's the one piece of life advice you wish someone had given you sooner?
Posted by Alison Cashin, Director of Communications
