That time my uncle told me to 'learn a trade, not a degree' back in 2008

I was 18 and dead set on going to a 4 year college like everyone else. My uncle pulled me aside at a family BBQ and said the trades would always be needed and college debt would bury me. I ignored him for a year, burned through $8,000 at community college hating every class. Finally dropped out, got into an apprenticeship, and now I own my own shop with 2 guys working for me. Has anyone else had an older relative give them advice that ended up being 100% right?

2 comments

2 Comments

emery_young132d ago

Did you read that report a few years back about how half of trade school grads out-earn college grads within a decade? Sounds like your uncle was ahead of the curve on that one. Good on you for cutting your losses early.

nancybailey2d ago

My uncle actually dropped out of high school to fix lawnmowers, and now he owns three repair shops and a small boat. So I guess there's always a path if you're willing to get your hands dirty.