How can you start a career without going to college?

Charlotte,

I'm sorry I did not see this when it first posted!

With two years of college you can become a police officer! (no, it's not for everyone).

Another idea is that you can get a regular customer service job like many people do, and work your way up. It is still possible! And, many employers offer tuition assistance. So, let's say you go work for a big hotel - you can start by working the front desk. You move up by SHINING. You're the one who's available to work overtime when needed, willingly trades shifts with other employees when needed, helps out the new people, gets glowing customer reviews, looks sharp, keeps their work station clean, has a register that always balances, etc. Believe me, you will get noticed. Next step might be training, or a relief supervisor. Maybe you can work towards going into event planning, helping to book large blocks of rooms for conventions/reunions, setting up banquet rooms, etc. There are lots of opportunities. I still want to encourage you to go for the 4 year degree, but wait until you can have that tuition assistance from your employer!

Best of luck!

Kim

It depends a lot on what career you are considering. Some careers require college, like professor, teacher, and scientist. Other professions can be built with a trade school education like plumber, electrician, and brick Mason (occasionally you may become one by mentorship and natural talent). Check out http://onetonline.org/ and type in a job title to learn what is needed to pursue that line of work. Best of luck!

Hi Charlotte. Starting your career without a formal degree is simple on paper. You get a job and work your way up. Most job postings that ask for a degree in the qualifications include an alternative such as an additional X-years of experience. Instead of a formal education you’re learning transferrable skills as you work your way up to the desired position.  For example, if you want to be a business unit manager you may need to start as a receptionist or data entry clerk. Once you have demonstrated the ability to do your current position you volunteer (or ask) for tasks or projects that will expand your exposure and experience.  You may need to job hop but be cautious not to do so too quickly. You should master your current role before you look to new opportunities. Also, you don’t want to appear flakey. As a general rule you should have no more than 2 employers in 5 years to show stability.