During my time teaching at the University of South Carolina, I had a remarkable student named Jake. He excelled in my first-year English class, showcasing both talent and humor. Fast forward several years, and I learned that Jake chose to forgo his completed university education to pursue trade school. Today, he’s an exceptional plumber, and I take pride in telling my sons, “I taught Jake!” I recommend him to all my friends.
I genuinely admire Jake just as much as I do another student who recently earned her medical degree. Growing up, vocational or trade schools were often viewed through a negative lens, as if attending college was the only path to success. This belief was ingrained in us by our parents, teachers, and society at large.
The National Center for Education Statistics reports that undergraduate enrollment in degree-granting institutions rose by 28 percent from 2000 to 2016, with projections indicating further growth. This represents a significant number of young people being told that a college education is crucial for success.
However, as highlighted by The Atlantic, trade schools often provide pathways to stable, well-paying jobs. Fields like manufacturing, infrastructure, and transportation are anticipated to grow, with many positions not requiring a four-year degree. In essence, children do not need to accumulate massive debt for a college experience when they can attend a two-year trade school right after high school or even while still in school.
The real issue lies not with trade schools, but in the persistent perception that they are a backup plan. Many parents still view vocational education as a lesser option. One mother expressed her hesitation about her son attending a trade school, reflecting a sentiment that such institutions were for those struggling academically. Similarly, another parent faced questions about her high-achieving child’s decision to attend a vocational-technical school, revealing a common misconception that trade schools are only for those who can’t succeed in traditional academia.
In Europe, about half of high school students are directed toward trade schools, a model that could benefit countless American students. Many of my university students were capable yet lacked direction regarding their educational goals. They enrolled without clear understanding, often leading to difficulties in finding gainful employment after graduation, leaving them burdened by student loans. Had they pursued trades instead, they could have found themselves in stable jobs similar to Jake’s.
Moreover, the financial burden of student loans cannot be overlooked. The Atlantic notes that only two-thirds of graduates believe their education justified the debt. Trade education typically costs significantly less than a traditional four-year degree, making it a more economical choice. For those who begin trade education in high school, costs could even be minimal or nonexistent.
We must shift our perspective on trade schools and the trades themselves. A college degree is not the sole indicator of a successful life. Many individuals I know, despite holding advanced degrees, are struggling with debt and job insecurity. In contrast, people like Jake are not only financially stable but also living independently and fulfilling the true American dream.
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In summary, it’s crucial to dismantle the stigma associated with trade schools. They offer valuable opportunities for a fulfilling career without the crippling debt often associated with traditional college education.