College or Trade? Plot Twist: Both Are Legit
By AIMing Between the Lines
Let’s set the scene:
You just tossed your graduation cap in the air, you’re still shaking glitter out of your hair, and suddenly… everyone’s asking: “So, what’s next?” (Translation: “College, right?”)
Cue the anxiety. Cue the overthinking. Cue Aunt Linda telling you about her friend's son who's already in med school and owns a condo. But here’s the thing: college isn’t the only “right” path—and trade school isn’t a consolation prize. Whether you’re dreaming of lecture halls or tool belts, the most important thing is finding a path that fits you—your strengths, your goals, and your idea of success. Let’s break it all down (with less pressure and more real talk).
Photo by Dragos Blaga on Unsplash
The Case for College:
A four-year plan (and maybe a side of student loans)
College has long been sold as the golden ticket to success—and for some, it absolutely is. Especially if you're eyeing a career in medicine, law, education, or anything that ends in “ologist.”
College might be your thing if:
You genuinely enjoy academic learning (and not just for the vending machine snacks).
You’re going for a career that requires a degree (sorry, surgeons).
You want the full college experience—dorm life, student orgs, free t-shirts every week.
Pros:
Higher potential income over a lifetime (depending on your major… looking at you, underwater basket weaving).
Access to campus life, networking, internships, and cool professors who wear bow ties.
Time to explore different fields before locking into a career.
But… consider this:
It’s pricey. The average U.S. student loan debt is around $37,000.
It’s time-consuming. Four years (minimum) before you hit the workforce.
It’s not a guarantee. A degree ≠ job offer. Sorry, no refund policy.
The Case for Trades
AKA: Skip the lectures, pass the toolbox
Trade school is like the overlooked sibling at the career party—quietly thriving, debt-free, and actually making bank.
Plumbers, electricians, welders, dental hygienists… they’re not just in demand—they’re essential.
Trade careers might be your jam if:
You learn best by doing (not by reading 50-page PDFs at 2am).
You want to work with your hands, solve real-world problems, and see the results immediately.
You’re not looking to spend the next decade in school and in debt.
Pros:
Shorter programs. Most trade schools take 6 months to 2 years.
Smaller price tag. Significantly cheaper than college.
Real job demand. The country needs more skilled tradespeople. Like, yesterday.
Solid pay. Many skilled trades earn $50–100k+ and have room to grow.
But heads up:
Some jobs are physically demanding.
There may be fewer “general” classes or discovery space.
If you want to climb the ladder, you may need additional certifications or start your own biz (which—bonus—many do!).
Photo by Robin Jonathan Deutsch on Unsplash
Myth Busting Time:
Let’s squash some outdated ideas:
❌ “College = smart, trades = plan B.”
✅ Actually, trades require serious skill, smarts, and strategy. Ever try rewiring a breaker panel? Didn’t think so.❌ “Only college grads make money.”
✅ Plenty of trades pay really well—without the tuition tab.❌ “Trades are dead-end jobs.”
✅ Many trade pros become entrepreneurs, foremen, or instructors—and build thriving careers.
Questions to Ask Before You Pick a Path
What kind of environment helps me learn and grow best—academic or hands-on?
Do I find more fulfillment in structured knowledge or in mastering a specific skill through experience?
What does a meaningful, balanced day at work look like to me?
What are my financial priorities, and how comfortable am I with taking on debt to reach my goals?
Am I eager to enter the workforce soon, or do I want to spend more time exploring my interests before committing to a career path?
The Bottom Line
Success doesn’t come with one map—it comes with your map. Maybe that includes textbooks. Maybe that includes toolboxes. Maybe it's both. The point is: you don’t need a dorm key to build a meaningful future. And you don’t need a wrench to prove your worth either. Your path is your power. So next time someone asks, “What’s next?”—don’t panic. Just smile and say:
“Whatever fits me best.”