I’m not sure if i should even be trying to go to college. I’m saying that because my interests and talents are not in half of the things that most colleges near me offer. I’m into makeup,fashion styling,and photography and I want to make that into a career. I’m very passionate about these things and these are where my talents are. Would it be more ideal for me to go to a trade school or like a beauty or fashion school? I’m not even going to consider the Art Institutes-I’ve heard too much negative things about for-profit schools scamming people for money.
Also I know that you do not need to be professionally trained to do makeup or to be a fashion designer/stylist. I’m not saying that I do not want or need to go school for it. I’m saying that in that industry all they care is do you have the talent. I’m very confident in my abilities but in no ways am I saying that I’m a pro or the best at what I do because I’m not. I still have a lot to learn and I want to go to school to better myself. I’m just on the fence about whether to do it at a 4 year college or a fashion/trade school that would be dedicated to my particular interests rather than a 4 year college where I’d be getting just a general education.
College doesn’t seem to be working out anyway. I’m basically poor. My parents have little to no money to spend on my education and neither do i. I’ve tried for years to get a job but I never get hired or even a call back because I have no experience. Plus, these days it’s like you have to know somebody. I’ve had to drop out of a college within a month because I couldn’t pay the amounts they were asking for. And even with financial aid I still have large amounts to pay that financial aid doesn’t cover. Like right now, a college I’ve applied and been accepted to is asking me for $200 for a housing deposit that i don’t have and probably never will have. I don’t know what to do. Honestly it seems like college is marketed towards wealthy kids.
My mom graduated as a cosmetologist/hairdresser. She’s been a waitress for a while, I’m not sure why. But, she has told me that cosmetologists don’t make much money. The average salary for a cosmetologist is only $24,257, while the average four-year graduate makes $45,327. College graduates do start out in debt, but they’ll make $1,000,000 more over their lifetime than non-graduates, so it pays off.
I’m also from a poor family, so I understand your feelings. I’ve also had the same difficulties with getting a job. Many colleges will assist students with finding jobs. You can avoid massive college debt if you act intelligently.
First of all, make sure you can afford a college BEFORE you begin attending. You may have to attend community college and a state school, but you’ll save tons of money. I had dreams of attending college in California, but I’m staying in-state to avoid nearly $150,000 of debt. I’m trying to get out of poverty, not continue the cycle.
On a previous thread the OP asked about community colleges around Houston that offered programs in their areas of interest. OP, I would strongly advise pursuing the Houston Community College route, or other CC route. These are typically the least expensive option, will allow you to explore all of your areas of interest, and make it possible to transition into a four year school later on if that’s what you so desire.
Community college is the way to go, absolutely. Find one with a cosmetology or makeup/design program. I am sure they are out there. That is where you will get the connections you need to make.
I’m in the same boat you are in terms of family situation. My parents cannot afford trash collection, let alone college tuition. LOL. Fill out the FAFSA and you should get a Pell Grant that will pay for everything you need and then some.
Definitely look at your community college programs! They often have great programs to offer, certainly better than the for-profit schools that will cost a fortune.
Also, if you are still in High School, check for trade/vocational programs available to you right now! I took a two year course in floral design in high school, and it provided everything I needed to know for good solid employment in a field I worked in for years, and I could go back to it right now with the background I have and be able to provide for my family if needed. Usually these vocational schools are free in high school, and are a great opportunity!