Consider goals when deciding on advanced education

Today's high schoolers face mounting pressure with respect to their futures.

Even high school graduates who did not immediately go to college after graduating face difficult decisions about their futures. For many facing such a decision, the process often involves finding the right college. However, options don't have to be limited to colleges and universities.

Trade schools can prepare young people, or even professionals looking to make a change, for lucrative and fulfilling careers. When deciding between a trade school and traditional college, there are a few things to consider to ensure whatever decision is made is the right one.

n Goals: Career goals differ for everyone. While some pursue a career simply because it can pay well, others seek careers that may reward them in other ways. When deciding between a trade school or traditional university, consider any career goals. If certain goals bear significant importance, determine the best route by which to achieve them, be it through a trade school or college or university.

n Individual skills: Individual skills can also play a significant role when determining if a trade school or traditional university is the best choice. Prospective students who are mechanically inclined and love working on automobiles might be better suited to an automotive trade school, while those who excel in cooking arts and don't know an engine from an onion might be more suited for a culinary school.

Individuals who honestly assess their strengths and weaknesses will likely find this can lend much to their decision-making process.

n Educational interests: Those who would love to learn about a variety of subjects are probably better suited for a traditional college or university.

Others with a more specific interest in a given field of study might find it hard to get motivated or stay interested when studying at a four-year college or university.

n Requirements: Not all careers require a degree from a four-year college or university. Individuals should research what level of education is necessary to be successful in any fields that may interest them. If a given career does not require a four-year degree, there's no sense spending such a substantial amount of money on a degree that won't help land a job.

Courtesy Metro Creative Connection