Trade school vs university - pros and cons?

I've been doing a lot of soul-searching lately and am considering going either to a trade school or to a traditional university after high school. Can anyone delve into the pros and cons of each? Is one generally considered better than the other or does it vary depending on the person's circumstances and interests?

It's great that you're exploring all your options post-high school. When deciding between a trade school and a traditional university, really focus on your personal interests and long-term career goals, as each path has its own benefits and drawbacks.

Trade School Pros:

- Skill-focused: Trade schools offer practical, hands-on training for specific jobs like electricians, plumbers, mechanics, dental hygienists, or chefs. You'll be mastering a specific craft, which can be excellent if you have a clear vision for your career.

- Shorter program: Typically, it takes about2 years or even less to graduate from a trade school, meaning you'll be able to join the workforce sooner.

- Cost: In most scenarios, trade schools are more affordable than traditional universities.

- Job Outlook: Some trade careers are in high demand with a positive job outlook.

Trade School Cons:

- Specialized education: Though it's a pro that trade schools give you specific skills, the downside is that it doesn't provide as comprehensive or broad an education as a university. If you end up wanting to change career paths later, it may be more difficult.

- Perception: Despite the immense value trade professions contribute, society sometimes places a higher prestige on four-year universities.

University Pros:

- Broad education: Universities offer a more comprehensive education, opening up a wide array of potential career paths and fields of study. This is great if you want to explore different fields before settling on one.

- Networking and connections: Universities often provide larger networks in a multitude of industries, which can be helpful in job hunting post-graduation.

- Extracurriculars and college life: The traditional college experience offers a range of non-academic activities which can also structure your personal growth.

University Cons:

- Longer time frame: Typically, a bachelor's degree will take around four years to complete.

- Cost: A common concern with universities is the high cost of tuition and potentially accruing student debt.

- Career applicability: Depending on your major, you might find it not directly applicable to an exact job role post-graduation.

Neither option is inherently better than the other–it truly depends on your individual circumstances, career aspirations, financial situation, and educational preferences. Think about what you are passionate about, your life goals, and how you prefer to learn. Finally, don't rush the decision – it's a significant step in your career, and it may take time to figure out the right pathway.