In today’s ever-changing world, the traditional narrative of success tied solely to a college degree is being challenged by the equal successes of alternative paths. From becoming a cosmetologist to enrolling in a trade school, there are plenty of ways to thrive without a degree.
Consider the cosmetology industry, which continues to experience steady growth. To become a cosmetologist, you simply only need to apply for your license after attending cosmetology school. This career has become very enticing as the numbers continue to increase both demand and salary wise. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of barbers, hair stylists, and cosmetologists is projected to grow eight percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average three percent for all other occupations. This growth is fueled by an increasing demand for personal appearance services, which is driven in part by population growth and a growing emphasis on personal wellness.
Similarly, careers as certified trade professionals offer promising paths to success, with a plethora of opportunities and competitive salaries. Bloomberg reports that the demand for plumbers, electricians, and carpenters remains robust, expecting by 2027 to see a 550,000 shortage of these professionals. In fact, the BLS projects that the employment of these trades are expected to double the average employment rate for all other occupations through 2032. Not only is it fairly easy to get hired straight out of trade school, these programs also provide students with practical, hands-on skills, often through paid on-the-job training, that are directly applicable to their future profession. According to the Northeast Technical Institute (NCES), graduates of trade schools often enter the workforce sooner and with significantly lower debt than their counterparts who pursue a college education.
Speaking of debt, the average cost of college in the United States is $36,436 per student per year. This is an enormous amount of money that some individuals can not afford and therefore it typically takes a decade or more to pay it off. This daunting amount of debt is an inhibitor to college in itself which gives even more reasoning to consider alternative paths.
In conclusion, the belief that success can only be achieved through a college education is a myth that overlooks the diverse talents, skills, and aspirations of individuals from all backgrounds. Ultimately, success should be defined by your personal individual goals and aspirations rather than by the attainment of a degree.
