A new K12-commissioned survey reveals today’s high school grads are thinking differently about the future. While 90% plan to attend college, many are also eyeing nontraditional paths—34% feel social media pressure to become influencers, and 56% say their schools encouraged them to explore careers like gig work, trades, or content creation. As grads step into adulthood, financial literacy and real-world skills are top of mind, especially in a rapidly evolving economy.
Destinations Career Academy of New Mexico student Konner Yessilgh is gaining hands-on entrepreneurship experience through Orchard Park’s Makers Market, where he is building business skills while selling his own products. With support from mentors and the youth entrepreneurship program, Konner is developing confidence, customer service skills and real-world experience as he explores his future career goals in game development.
