As graduation approaches, seniors at The Columbus School are preparing to take their next steps, whether it’s targeting higher education, starting a business, or following their passions into universities.

With high school coming to an end, students are looking forward to their futures. Some have had their career paths planned for years, while others have discovered their passions along the way. The journey doesn’t matter—each student is preparing for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

“I always knew I wanted to do something with computers, but only recently did I decide to become a computer engineer,” Esteban Barrios said.

For many, deciding on a career path is about more than just picking a profession—it’s about recognizing their strengths and identifying what truly interests them. Some students have a natural affinity for certain subjects, making their decisions easier, while others take time to explore different options before settling on a field that excites them.

“I believe my abilities align well with digital business and marketing, which is why I chose this path,” Jacobo Moreno said.

While personal interests play a big role in career choices, the support and encouragement of family can be just as important. Many students credit their families for introducing them to certain fields, fostering their passions, or simply giving them the confidence to pursue their goals. Whether through direct exposure or moral support, families often provide the foundation for success.

“My family has always supported my hobbies. I’ve built computers for my brothers, and they encouraged me to keep learning,” Barrios said.

Beyond family influence, school experiences also shape students’ career paths. Classes, extracurricular activities, and personal projects can open doors to new interests and help students discover crucial skills that will shape their futures. For some, a single class or teacher can make all the difference, turning a casual interest into a lifetime passion.

“My computer science class made me realize how much I love working with computers,” Barrios added.

Choosing where to study is another major decision. Some students prefer to stay close to home, while others seek opportunities abroad for financial reasons, academic programs, or the experience of living in a different environment. The choice of university can shape not only their education but also their future careers and personal growth.

“I’m planning to study in Bogotá, either at El Rosario or Los Andes,” Moreno said. “I’ve already done internships in this field, and I really enjoyed them.”

For some, higher education is not just about earning a degree—it’s about preparing to develop their own projects. The dream of starting a business is an exciting but challenging goal, requiring both vision and determination. Some seniors are already thinking about their future as business owners and how they can turn their ideas into reality.

“I want to start my own business during and after university, and I plan to do it with my great friend,” Moreno said.

“The independence that comes with my field excites me the most,” Barrios said.