Not everyone gets a college degree. In fact, research shows that in the US only about one-third of people have taken this path. However, that does not means the others are unskilled or unemployed, as there are alternatives to degrees that suit some people much better. If your teen isn’t the academic type and they don’t want to attend college, you really do not have to despair! Here are 4 great alternatives to a college degree.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are a great way to get on the job training and earn money while earning a decent qualification. HVAC training is one example of entering a well-paid career for life, or your kid could consider one of the many apprenticeships the construction industry offer. They would be working with experienced professionals to learn your trade, although some college work is involved as well.
The demand for some trades such as electricians and carpenters is growing all the time. It is not just industry that wants these skills; the domestic market is desperate for them too. An apprenticeship is usually in a trade where your teen will be using their hands, but people will pay well for a skill they do not have.
Military Training
Military training is not all about learning how to fight the enemy. It offers many great opportunities to learn new skills while paying a salary, covering the cost of things like health care and providing you with food and a roof over your head. Many bases operate online courses and have satellite classrooms, and the qualifications that can be earned are very varied. Applicants then have the choice of whether to stay enlisted or leave but stay for 20 years and they can retire with benefits.
As a military family, I can personally attest that this option has been a great alternative for many families! They also will pay for your college degree while you earn a salary! So you can earn a degree from on-the-job training that you do for the military, AND earn a degree that is paid for, without any college debt. (Many earn 2 degrees in the same time span that it takes their traditional-schooled peers to earn one).
If you have any questions regarding this route, feel free to reach out to me! I’d love to answer any questions you may have!!
Starting A Business
It has never been easier to start a business in the US. As long as you are prepared to work hard for long hours to get your business up and running, the rewards can be very gratifying. Your teen does not necessarily need a lot of money or a high street store these days to start a business. A computer and an Internet connection is all they need!
You may be surprised by how much they will have to learn if they choose this route, but everything they do learn will be a skill that can be used in other careers. Marketing will be vital, which should mainly involve social media management because although it is time-consuming it is free. This will teach them how to communicate with people of all levels, and how to be diplomatic even when they are complaining about a product or service you have provided.
Your teen will also need to understand basic bookkeeping to keep their records in order, and a certain amount of website development.
Finding Their Passion
If your teen really does not have any idea of the career they want to follow, they could make a big mistake and undertake the wrong training. This is why some people take some time out before they commit themselves to anything. Many of them go backpacking in other countries and some travel across the states. It just gives them time to keep considering their options, and then when they have finished their journey they may have a better idea of what they want to do. So, let them explore their options and interests.
Hey there! My name is Rachael and I have been a private tutor for over 10 years. I earned my undergraduate degree in 2 and a half years and earned my graduate degree by age 22. I have tutored dozens of high school students, college students, and graduate students. I offer my resources and experience to help parents learn how to best help their teen or child that is struggling in school.
