What does a vocational job mean?

I've heard the term 'vocational job' thrown around a bit, but I'm not entirely sure what it entails. Is it different from a regular job? How does it affect the kind of training or school I should pursue after high school?

Sure, happy to clarify that for you! A vocational job often refers to a type of employment that specifically requires skills learned through hands-on training, usually offered in technical or trade schools, institutes, community colleges, or even apprenticeships.

Unlike traditional academic pathways that typically involve a 4-year bachelor’s degree program, vocational training tends to be more focused on practical skills needed for a specific job or career. You'd learn these skills through methods such as clinical practice, laboratory work, or in-field training. Usually, vocational programs take less time to complete compared to a bachelor’s degree.

Examples of vocational jobs include electricians, paramedics, dental hygienists, paralegals, chefs, and many others. Each of these professions requires specialized training but not necessarily a traditional bachelor's degree.

The kind of training or school you pursue after high school really depends on your career goals and interests. If you're interested in a practical, hands-on career and want to get into the workforce quickly, a vocational path might be a good fit for you. On the other hand, if your career aspirations involve fields that require a traditional bachelor's degree (or higher), like law, medicine, academia, etc., pursuing a more traditional academic path might be for you.

Remember, neither path is inherently better or worse - it's ultimately about what matches your personal interests, skills, and career goals the best!