As the tassels turn: Local seniors prepare for the future

May 15, 2025

Nyana Whitelaw,

JACKSON, Tenn. — It’s graduation season, which means high school seniors are making important decisions about their futures. We sought out to learn more about the different options students are considering

Seniors have several career options to choose from, whether they are college-bound, going into trades, the military, or straight into the workforce.

We spoke with Caroline Yarborough, a local guidance counselor, who shared insights on the paths recent graduates are taking.

“I’d say about 80% go to a 4-year school, and we have a lot that are going into different variations of engineering. We have a couple electrical, we have one biomedical. We have a lot that go into education, specifically elementary education,” said Yarborough.

Educators say there’s been a noticeable shift in recent years with more emphasis on real-world readiness and certifications.

“So, a lot of the students that are coming into our door, they are looking for something that’s affordable education, but still a good quality education. So, a lot of students coming through our doors, at least, are looking to go to a 4-year institution, but a lot of them are trying to get a career now and get into the workforce as quick as possible,” said Yarborough.

While some seniors already have a career path lined up, others may still be contemplating.

We spoke with Travis Pugh, alderman and TCAT instructor, who shares some words of wisdom.

“I would encourage them just to seek out some things. Sit down, meditate, and think about what their passion is because sometimes we don’t know what our purpose is, and sometimes when we can just sit back and talk to other people. Think about what makes your heart beat, that might be the passion and the road to success that you can take,” said Pugh.