Continue Your Studies or Learn a Trade?

The decision of whether to continue your studies or learn a trade is a big one. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option carefully before making a decision.

Pros of Continuing Your Studies:

• Higher earning potential: In general, people with higher levels of education earn more money than those without.
• More job security: A college degree can give you an edge in the job market, especially in times of economic uncertainty.
• Increased job satisfaction: A college education can help you develop your interests and find a career that you love.
• Personal growth: College can be a time of personal growth and development. You’ll learn new things, meet new people, and gain valuable life skills.

Cons of Continuing Your Studies:

• Student debt: The cost of college can be a major burden, especially if you have to take out loans.
• Opportunity cost: The time you spend in college is time that you could be working and earning money.
• Uncertainty: There is no guarantee that you will get a good job after you graduate from college.

Pros of Learning a Trade:

• Lower cost: Trade schools are often less expensive than colleges.
• Shorter training period: You can typically get a job in a trade in a shorter amount of time than it takes to earn a college degree.
• High demand: There is a high demand for skilled tradespeople in many industries.
• Job satisfaction: Many people find great satisfaction in working with their hands and building things.

Cons of Learning a Trade:

• Lower earning potential: In general, tradespeople earn less money than people with college degrees.
• Physical demands: Some trades can be physically demanding.
• Limited job security: The job market for some trades can be cyclical, which means that there may be times when it is difficult to find work.

Here are some questions to ask yourself when making your decision:

• What are your career goals?
• What are your financial resources?
• What are your interests and skills?
• What are your risk tolerance?
• What is your preferred lifestyle?

Ultimately, the best decision for you will depend on your individual circumstances and goals. If you’re not sure what to do, it’s a good idea to talk to a career counsellor or guidance counsellor. They can help you assess your strengths and weaknesses and make an informed decision about your future.