This time of year high school seniors are getting excited about earning their high school diploma and making plans for life after high school. The academic knowledge, skills and work habits they have developed play a big part in their college and career readiness. But what about all of the choices for what’s next? Knowing their options is another big part of being ready.

That is why the Federal Reserve Banks of Richmond and San Francisco have created an online financial education resource called Invest in What’s Next: Life After High School that helps students explore their options and build a plan that is right for them.

Students have a lot to consider — their interests, career options and different education paths that include four-year college, community college or technical training for a specific career. Students also have to think about the lifestyle they want, their earning potential and the financial obligations they may have from paying for school. Put it all together, and it is the first major financial decision in a student’s life.

“Invest in What’s Next” is designed to help students make this decision one step at a time. In Lesson 1, students can explore their education and career options. In Lesson 2, released this month, students can start putting their plan together. They identify education funding options and practice managing student loans. They also work to balance the lifestyle they want with their expected income.