Need Advice: Should I Focus on Making Money Right Out of High School or Pursue College?
Hey everyone! I’m new to Reddit and really need your advice. I’m torn between jumping into a stable job right after high school or striving for a spot at a good college. This decision has been weighing heavily on me, and I’m running out of time to figure it out.
Here’s the Background:
My school offers a special program where students can choose a “tech” track in 10th grade. I’m currently in 10th and need to choose my track soon. I’m interested in two medical fields: Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) and Licensed Patient Care Technician (PCT). The program starts in the second semester of junior year and wraps up in the first semester of senior year, requiring summer school attendance to complete it.
Things are tough at home; I’m in an abusive environment that drains my emotional well-being. I’m also not a fan of living in Florida — the heat and politics don’t sit well with me. My dream is to move to Washington, where I feel I’d be happier in a more progressive environment.
I really want to get into a good college with substantial financial aid. I’m already taking dual enrollment and honors classes, joining clubs, and working hard to build a solid college profile. Getting into a good college is my primary goal, as it’s my way out of my current situation. But I also need a stable income after high school to support myself and move away from my family.
The Dilemma:
Choosing the LPN track means a major commitment; former students have warned me it’ll consume my entire life, leaving little room for school clubs and my academic pursuits. However, the pay is lucrative, promising a way for me to move out and achieve financial independence.
On the other hand, the PCT track would allow me to stay engaged in school activities and potentially take on a leadership role in HOSA, which would enhance my college application. The downside is that the pay is minimum wage, and I’m worried that won’t be enough for me to support myself in today’s economy, even if I work full-time during my gap year.
I aspire to become an OB-GYN someday, so I need to save as much as possible for med school and secure my own financial footing. While I’m aiming for the Florida Bright Futures scholarship as a backup, I’m also planning to take a gap year to work and save. I’m doing everything I can this year to boost my college prospects, but I really need to decide: PCT or LPN?
Thanks for taking the time to read my story! Your input would mean a lot.
First of all, I want to acknowledge how incredibly brave you are for sharing your story and seeking advice. It sounds like you’re facing a tough situation, but you have clear goals and a strong desire to create a better life for yourself, and that’s commendable.
Given the context you’ve provided, here are some things to consider as you weigh your options:
LPN (Licensed Practical Nursing):
Pros:
– Higher Pay: An LPN typically earns significantly more than a PCT. This could be crucial for your goal of moving out and supporting yourself.
– Career Opportunities: With an LPN license, you can start building a solid foundation in the medical field. This could also potentially help with your long-term goal of becoming an OB-GYN.
– Quick Entry into the Workforce: Completing the LPN program could allow you to start working quickly post-graduation, giving you more financial independence sooner.
Cons:
– Time Commitment: The program is demanding and will limit your free time, making it harder to focus on extracurricular activities that enhance your college applications.
– Stress: Given your current emotional situation, taking on an intensive program could add to your stress levels, which you seem to be trying to manage already.
PCT (Patient Care Technician):
Pros:
– Flexibility: The PCT program might allow you more time for extracurriculars and academics, which can boost your college applications significantly.
– Less Stress: A less intensive program could mean less burnout and more time to focus on self-care and your mental health, which is also important.
– Experience: You’ll still gain valuable experience in healthcare, even if the pay is lower.
Cons:
– Lower Pay: The minimum wage isn’t going to give you much financial freedom to move out, which is a real concern given your home situation.
– Longer Path to Financial Independence: It might take longer to save the amount of money you need to support yourself.
Final Thoughts:
Given that you’re aiming for medical school, balancing your current mental health and academic profile is critical. Here’s a potential approach:
Consider a Hybrid Approach: If it’s feasible, could you maybe pursue the PCT certification while also tapping into part-time work (even if it’s not in the medical field) to start saving? This way, you might find a balance between earning some money and maintaining the extracurricular activities that enhance your college profile.
Gap Year Resources: During your gap year, you could work full-time as an LPN and save more aggressively to support your move and college expenses. If financially feasible, this might be a smart investment in your future.
Seek Support: If possible, please reach out to a trusted teacher or counselor at school. They can help guide you through your options and might have insights into resources available for students in tough living situations.
Keep College in Mind: Since you’re focused on getting into a good college, remember that they’ll look at your overall journey. If you feel that taking the PCT route will give you a stronger profile, that could pay off in the long run.
Ultimately, your mental health and well-being should always come first. Choose the path that aligns best with your ability to thrive academically while also working towards independence. Trust yourself to make the right choice, and whatever you decide, you can always adjust your course as you go. Good luck!