Young people worldwide are choosing vocational training programmes over studying towards a traditional degree. I believe the disadvantages of missing out on social aspects and being allocated a formal degree outweigh the advantages of hands-on training.
Due to the allure of immediate employment eligibility, work-based training has become preferable over attending a college or university. The advantage of practical skills being imparted by a professional to an apprentice seems logical to those who advocate for this route. For example, chefs may enjoy the practical learning of skill in cuisine. Furthermore, a person may even get employed at the site, such as a restaurant, where they are busy learning, should they show admirable skills. Moreover, a person may find the appeal in being immediately employable and having hands-on skills already needed for the job to be the best choice. If a person chooses this route, they can also expect less student debt. Yet, I believe that the advantages here are short-sighted.
Enrolling in a traditional university degree offers more than just the obvious. Firstly, close bonds are often fostered with peers in this lifephase which often become the basis for successful networking in future business dealings. The saying, “It’s not what you know, but who you know. ” really does come into play in the career world. Additionally, social skills are honed during this time as students outgrow the immaturity of late adolescence and start to make meaningful connections. Additionally, since many high-earning positions still require a formal degree for eligible consideration, having this awarded to one is really a golden key to one’s future. Moreover, should one placement not be suitable, having a formal degree to revert to can assist in finding another position, and this acts as security.
Since the growing trend is to consider in-job training over a traditional learning path, much consideration needs to be paid to the short-term benefits over long-term security. I advocate for a more traditional path whereby a paper-based qualification, along with lifelong acquaintances, can blossom into a very successful career path in the long run.