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Congrats Philly Grads! Lets Talk About What Comes Next


Hey Philly Class of 2025 — you did it! 🎓 Whether you graduated from Central, Girls High, Frankford, CAPA, or anywhere in between, take a minute to soak it in. This is your moment. The city is proud of you. This year, the District celebrates over 7,200 students who have successfully completed their graduation requirements.


Now what?


Graduating from high school is a huge milestone, but it also opens a door to a new, sometimes uncertain, chapter. Whether you know exactly what's next or you're still figuring things out, here’s a guide to help you navigate the road ahead.



1. Take a Breath and Celebrate

First things first: take a deep breath. You’ve just completed a major achievement. Spend time with your family and friends, reflect on what you’ve accomplished, and take pride in your achievements. Celebration doesn’t have to mean a big party — it can be a walk through Fairmount Park, a trip to Reading Terminal, or just a quiet night at

home.


2. Make a Game Plan (Even If It’s a Rough Draft)

Ask yourself: What do I want to do next? Its an important question - but remember plans change, nothing is permanant, and it's never too late to start down a new path. Just having a basic outline of your goals can be incredibly helpful in helping to fight the stress and uncertanty after graduation. Here are some common routes and tips to get started:

  • College Bound? Confirm your enrollment, register for orientation, and discuss your major with your advisor. Ensure that your financial aid (FAFSA, PHEAA, scholarships) is all in order.

  • Trade School or Apprenticeships? Philly has amazing opportunities — from carpentry and plumbing to culinary and cosmetology. Consider institutions like Philadelphia Youth Network, JEVS, Orleans Technical College, or the Finishing Trades Institute.

  • Taking a Gap Year or Working? That’s valid. Try to set some goals: save money, gain work experience, or volunteer. Just keep learning and growing.

  • Undecided? You’re not alone. Consider part-time work while you explore your interests. Free career counseling is available through places like the Free Library of Philadelphia and YouthBuild Philly.



3. Build a Resume and LinkedIn Profile

Even if you’ve only worked part-time or volunteered, start building your resume now. A resume is the most critical tool you'll need to find your first career move after school so its important you have one - even if it just has a few part time job or extracurricular experiences. There are a ton of tools online to help you build your first resume - and local organizations like PYN and CareerLink offer workshops and free resume help. Creating a LinkedIn profile is also smart — it’s your digital handshake in the professional world. Check out our other blog posts for more guidance on LinkedIn!


4. Get Your Money Right

Money opens doors and gives you more options for your future. Even if you don't have much at all - now is the perfect time to learn how to manage your finances. Trust us - the future you will thank you. Start by:

  • Opening a bank account if you haven’t yet. (Check out PYN's Banking Blueprint Resource!)

  • Download a budgeting app (like Mint or EveryDollar) to help get a sense of where you spend your money and hw you can save up.

  • Watching free financial literacy videos from the Philly Fed or Khan Academy.

Even if you’re not earning a ton yet, building smart habits early pays off.

5. Keep Learning (On Your Terms)

Not all learning happens in school. Read books, take free online courses (Coursera, edX, Skillshare), and stay curious. If you want to explore tech, healthcare, business, or creative fields, there’s a free resource or low-cost program out there for you.


6. Stay Connected

Keep in touch with the mentors, teachers, coaches, or anyone who supported you! These connections matter. You never know who might offer a job lead, a reference, or great advice down the line. LinkedIn is another great way to do this as well!


7. Take Care of Your Mental Health

This is a time of big change. It’s okay to feel anxious or uncertain. If you’re struggling, talk to someone. Philly has free mental health resources for youth, including:

Taking care of your mind is just as important as chasing your goals.



8. Remember: Your Path Is Yours

There’s no one “right” way to do life after high school. Everyone moves at their own pace. Whether you're starting college in August, jumping into a full-time job, or still figuring it out, keep moving forward.



Final Thoughts: You’ve got Philly grit in your blood! That means you know how to hustle, how to care, and how to bounce back when things get tough. Keep showing up. Keep growing. And know that your city is rooting for you every step of the way.


Congrats again, Class of 2025 — your future starts now.


✌️ — Best wishes, from a team who believes in you!




 
 
 

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