Feeling a bit lost here. Like, if I didn't go to college - what are some other possible paths? What professions might value on-the-job training or certification programs instead? Also, is there any possibility of me ending up with a decent paying job? Just curious about everyone’s insights, trying to see all my possibilities!
Absolutely, there are a number of viable and rewarding paths you can take that don't necessarily require a traditional four-year college degree. First, trades are a great option. Skilled work like electricians, plumbers, carpenters, tower technicians, and HVAC technicians often require a vocational degree or an apprenticeship, but provide strong stable incomes.
Another path to consider is the military. With different branches offering various jobs, you have the opportunity to gain specialized skills in a broad spectrum of areas such as logistics, medical, engineering, technology and many more. Moreover, the military provides valuable experiences and benefits such as tuition assistance, GI Bill for further education, housing, and medical benefits, among others.
The tech industry has also widely opened up to accepting candidates who don't have a 4-year degree. Some positions, like a Web Developer or Software Developer, can be acquired with coding bootcamps or self-taught skills accompanied by a solid portfolio of work.
Lastly, roles in a sales, administrative, or management context in industries like hospitality, retail, and real estate, often value experience and personnel skills more than formal education. These roles usually have training programs that equip you with the necessary skills.
Every path is unique so it's all about finding which one aligns with your interests and long-term goals. Remember that "decent job" has many definitions, depending on your personal values, lifestyle choices, and financial goals. While you're exploring, consider elements such as work-life balance, job satisfaction, career growth opportunities, stability, and of course, the financial aspect.
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