Best Careers for High School Graduates Who Don’t Want to Go to College

Graduating high school is an exciting milestone, but it also brings a big question: what comes next? For decades, the default answer was college. Yet the reality is that college is not the right fit for everyone. The cost of tuition has skyrocketed, student loan debt has reached record highs, and many young adults are realizing that a four-year degree is not the only path to success.

If you are a recent graduate who is unsure about going to college, or a parent supporting your teen as they explore their options, you may be wondering: what are the best careers for high school graduates who don’t want to go to college? The good news is there are plenty of opportunities that allow you to earn a good living, gain independence, and build a fulfilling future without spending years in a classroom.

Let’s break down some of the top career paths to consider, including one that has been changing lives right here in Chicago.

Why More Graduates Are Skipping College

Before we look at career options, it is important to understand why so many young adults are choosing a different route.

• Financial concerns: The average cost of tuition and fees at a public four-year university is over $10,000 a year, not including housing or books. Private schools can cost more than $40,000 annually. For many families, this is simply not realistic.
• Student debt: According to the Federal Reserve, the average student loan borrower owes over $30,000. Many spend decades paying it off.
• Uncertainty about career goals: Some students go to college without a clear plan and graduate with debt but no direction.
• Growing industries outside of college requirements: Many fields, especially in the trades and beauty industry, do not require a degree but still offer financial stability and growth.

Skipping college does not mean skipping success. It means being smart about choosing a career path that fits your skills, interests, and lifestyle.

Career Options for High School Graduates Without College

Here are some of the most popular and rewarding options for those ready to start building their future right away.

Skilled Trades

Jobs in fields like plumbing, electrical work, welding, and HVAC are in high demand. Many of these careers offer apprenticeships, meaning you can earn while you learn. Skilled trades also tend to pay well, often starting at $40,000 to $50,000 a year, with the potential to reach six figures as experience grows.

Technology Certifications

Not all tech jobs require a degree. Certifications in areas like cybersecurity, coding, or IT support can be completed in less than a year and open the door to high-paying positions. The tech industry continues to grow, making it an attractive option for those interested in computers and problem-solving.

Real Estate

Becoming a real estate agent requires licensing but not a degree. Real estate is ideal for those with strong people skills and an entrepreneurial mindset. Income can vary, but successful agents often make well above average earnings.

Entrepreneurship

Many young people are launching their own businesses through e-commerce, digital marketing, or freelancing. While this path takes discipline and risk, it offers independence and unlimited potential.

Beauty Industry and Lash Artistry

One of the fastest-growing and most accessible career paths for high school graduates is the beauty industry, especially lash extensions. Unlike traditional jobs, lash artistry combines creativity with business ownership potential. It does not require years of school, but it can provide a steady income and the freedom to build your own schedule.

Why Lash Artistry is a Top Career Choice for High School Graduates

The lash industry has exploded in the last decade, and the demand for lash artists continues to grow. Here’s why it stands out as one of the best careers for graduates who are not interested in college.

• Low barrier to entry: Lash training can be completed in a matter of days, not years. At LucyLu Lash Academy, our courses are designed to prepare you to start working immediately.
• Affordable investment: Instead of spending tens of thousands of dollars on college, lash courses are a fraction of the cost and provide skills that lead directly to income.
• High earning potential: Lash artists in Chicago can earn anywhere from $50 to $150 per client. With just a few clients a day, many make more than traditional entry-level jobs.
• Flexibility: Whether you want a full-time career or a side hustle while pursuing other goals, lash artistry allows you to set your own schedule.
• Entrepreneurship opportunities: Many lash artists go on to open their own salons, build their brand, and even train others.

For creative, ambitious graduates who want freedom and financial stability, lash artistry checks all the boxes.

What Parents Should Know

If you are a parent reading this, you may have concerns about your child not going to college. That is understandable, as we all want our children to have a secure future. Lash artistry offers that stability in a way many do not realize. It is not just a “beauty trend.” It is part of a billion-dollar industry that continues to expand every year.

Unlike fast food or retail jobs, lash artistry provides a professional skill set that can grow with your child. It teaches responsibility, entrepreneurship, customer service, and financial management. Many parents are surprised to learn that their child can start earning a solid income within months, without the crushing burden of student debt.

How to Get Started with LucyLu Lash Academy

If you or your child are considering a career in lashes, the first step is proper training. At LucyLu Lash Academy in Chicago, we specialize in helping beginners become confident, certified lash artists.

Our programs are designed with students in mind:

• Hands-on training with real models
• Small class sizes for personalized attention
• A professional kit included so you can start practicing right away and have enough material to make back your investment
• Guidance on building your business, finding clients, and marketing your services

Whether you want to make lashes your full-time career or a part-time side hustle, our academy gives you the tools to succeed.

The Bottom Line

College is not the only way to build a successful future. Skilled trades, certifications, real estate, and beauty careers all offer exciting opportunities for high school graduates who want to start working right away. Among these, lash artistry stands out as one of the most flexible, creative, and lucrative options available.

If you are ready to take the first step toward a career you can be proud of, LucyLu Lash Academy is here to guide you. Our courses fill quickly, and many students start booking paying clients within weeks of graduation.

Call or text us today at 773-870-2816 to learn more about upcoming classes, pricing, and how to enroll. Do not wait another year feeling stuck. Your career in beauty can start now.