As students begin developing clearer goals for their future, they might feel frustrated with the lack of career-oriented courses at Diamond Bar High School. Students should be more conscious of this problem and consider enrolling in classes outside of DBHS.

High school offers a very limited selection of courses that address more specialized majors. Those who are not planning on majoring in biology or mathematics will be affected by a lack of class options. Lack of classes orientated toward their dream jobs may deprive students of valuable knowledge that could be critical to their future careers.

If students never take a class relevant to their interests, college admission officers may interpret this as a lack of interest in that field. Another disadvantage is that students may go into college with very limited knowledge of their major. This may lead to a realization that possible careers in that field isn’t something they’re willing to do for the rest of their lives, resulting in changes of their major and a loss of valuable time and money.

Extra classes aren’t all expensive; many community colleges offer certain courses to high school students for free—meaning individuals who are not financially stable or not willing to spend money can also sign up for these classes.

Some might wrongfully assume that an individual is only taking extra classes to boost their GPA or look more competitive compared to other college applications. However, these are just basic reasons for taking classes outside of DBHS.

Not only do community colleges allow students a chance to learn about a topic not offered at school, they also give high school students the opportunity to experience a real college course in a college classroom while better preparing them for their future.

In addition, for those who have more financial freedom, there are numerous online schools that offer students a variety of courses. Online classes are flexible to accommodate students’ schedules, giving them the option of waking up later, taking days off or finishing multiple chapters or units in just a few hours.

Most schools offer courses that are transferable to your current school or are weighted into your entire GPA, which if you do well in your class, can only help you. The large variety of additional classes will fit your schedule, interests or any other needs. If you are willing to put more time into your education and expand your knowledge, taking additional courses at a local community college or online can only be an advantage and help you in the long run.