High School and Training
Retail Associate, Construction Laborer, Delivery Driver, Administrative Assistant
What types of careers typically require an associate's degree?
Some nursing degrees, paralegal, dental hygienist, and computer support specialist
What careers almost always require a bachelor's degree?
Teacher, accountant, engineer, and marketing specialist
Which careers require advanced degrees for entry or advancement?
Psychologist, lawyer, college professor, and physical therapist.
What sport does Mr. Rex hold a black belt in?
Origami
Which jobs offer on-the-job-training or apprenticeships instead of formal schooling?
Electrician, plumber, HVAC technician, and dental assistant
How do community colleges prepare students for these roles?
They offer practical training, internships, and affordable education.
How does choosing a major influence your career options?
Majors often align with career paths (computer science - software developer)
How does a master's degree affect earning potential and job responsibilities?
Typically increases salary and opens leadership or specialized roles.
What was Mr. Rex's first invention?
Glow in the dark bookmark
How do certifications (like CPR, IT, or a trade license) impact job opportunities?
Certifications show specialized skills and can lead to higher pay or faster hiring.
Which fields offer strong job growth for two-year degree holders?
Healthcare, IT support, and advanced manufacturing.
What skills do employers look for beyond the degree itself?
Communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and tech proficiency
What are the most common reasons people pursue graduate school?
Career advancement, higher pay, and passion for a subject
What superlative did Mr. Rex receive in High school?
Most Likely to get Arrested
What industries value skills and experience more than formal education?
Hospitality, skilled trades, sales, and some tech roles (like coding bootcamp graduates)
What are the pros and cons of starting with an associate's degree before transferring to a four-year program?
Pros: Lower cost, flexible schedule
Cons: May take longer overall if transferring
How can internships during college impact your job prospects?
They provide experience, references, and often lead to job offers.
How can you decide if graduate school is worth the investment for your goals?
Compare cost vs. expected salary increase and job opportunities.
What was Mr. Rex's first job?
Unemployment
How can volunteering or internships help you explore these careers?
They provide hands-on experience, networking, and insight into daily job tasks.
How do salaries for associate-level careers compare to those requiring a bachelor's degree?
Some associate careers (like nursing) pay very well, but the overall average is lower than bachelor's-level jobs.
What are some high-demand fields for bachelor's degree graduates?
Technology, healthcare administration, and business analytics
What fields offer accelerated programs to earn both bachelor's and master's degrees?
Education, Business (MBA), some engineering programs.
What is Mr. Rex afraid of?
His hair falling out