Today, students often complain about having to take courses that aren't "relevant". They want to be prepared to be fully independent and perfectly ready for the workforce right out of school. With that in mind, I reached out to a few friends of mine and determined this list of 18 things schools should teach students so they are able to be somewhat prepared for the real world no matter what they do after high school:
1. Filing Taxes
Unfortunately, filing taxes isn't something that's straightforward, yet as an 18-year-old, it becomes essential really quick.
2. Writing a resume and cover letter
If you have even the slightest of chances getting a job, you better have a solid resume. On top of that, I guarantee that a bulk of students today haven't even heard of a cover letter, not to mention having written one.
3. Changing a tire
Flat tires are a common part of the adult life. When you're on your own, your parents will no longer be there to help you put on that donut tire and get off the highway.
4. Microsoft Office basics
Sure, you probably know how to use Word and Powerpoint, but many businesses today utilize Excel and Outlook the same amount, if not more. Having those skills can set you apart from other candidates.
5. Writing a professional email
I can't think of a more important thing to be prepared for upon entering the working world. No matter if it's your co-workers or clients, professionalism in your communication skills is essential.
6. Jump starting a car 
Just like flat tires, dead car batteries always seem to appear in life at the most inconvenient of times. Electrocuting yourself or blowing up your car is probably something that you don't want to do.
7. Networking
How do you build relationships (especially professional ones)? Sure, LinkedIn is a good start, but where do you go from there? Unfortunately, the world today is all about who you know, and it all starts with that network.
8. Interview skills
The key to landing a good job (or even a job at all) is demonstrating pristine interviewing skills. But it's not just appearing to be the perfect candidate that'll get you the position. Dress, presentation, and genuine responses are all vital, as well.
9. Applying for a loan
Where do you even go to apply for a loan? The bank? Everyone does it many times in life, but what does the process even look like?
10. Negotiating for a car
Even if you think you're a decent negotiator, you probably still have some things to learn when it comes to bargaining for a car. Student budgets are tight; how do we not let the salesman get the best of us?
11. Choosing health insurance
I know it's expensive and some companies will have it as a benefit, but that's about all I know. How do you know which plan is best?
12. Managing personal finances
Money is simply the key to life. Teach us how to not be in complete debt before we're 25.
13. It is okay to make mistakes
Now this one is a little bit different from the others, but it’s possibly one of the most important, as this one makes you grow and become a better you. In fact, according to my friend, “make as many mistakes as you can; that’s the only way to figure stuff out.”
14. Time management
This is one thing that I feel like I have a decent hold on, but if my summer internship has taught me something, it's that real life is really hard to balance. How do you adequately allot time for all the activities that life brings?
15. Setting appointments
Going to doctor's appointments is scary enough on its own, not to mention setting the appointments in the first place. I think the worst part is not being prepared to answer the questions they have. "No, I don't know anything about my insurance plan..."
16. Performing basic first aid
I've always wanted to learn CPR (because saving lives is kind of important). Plus, who knows when you'll need to put a Band Aid on someone's cut-up finger. Safety first. Always.
17. Reading a map
If you ever want to travel (or if you're horrible with directions), understanding a map is imperative. "...But that's what Google Maps is for." Try traveling Europe for four months without cell service, then you'll understand.
18. Defending yourself
Both mentally and physically, it's extremely important to be prepared to defend yourself. No matter how hard we try to fix it, the world is full of danger, and all young adults should be ready.
