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There are many people who throughout history have succeeded in the world without the benefit of a college education. However, these days it seems that some sort of additional qualification is necessary in order to be considered for just about any job. But if, like those successful people who went before, you were unable to obtain a university education, it does not mean that all the best occupational doors must be closed to you. There are many satisfying careers open to those without degrees. As the brave Helen Keller once said, 'College isn't the place to go for ideas.' With her hard won wisdom, she understood the importance of what can be learned outside the confines of a classroom. Yet, there can be a certain snobbery associated with a college education, or a person's lack thereof, and this is perhaps the greatest hurdle that you will encounter in trying to establish yourself in a career. While you cannot change the thought processes of others by sheer will alone, it's up to you to believe in yourself when others won't. Confidence in your abilities, and the personal characteristics that you can bring to any employer, is an absolute must. This is the first step toward earning a great job without a college degree. Taking an honest look at yourself and your abilities, including noting your particular strengths and acknowledging your weaknesses, is also critical. With these attitudes of self-confidence and objective self-criticism, you will be equipped to begin considering which jobs are most appropriate for you. Are you a people person, or do you prefer solitude? Do you like to work alone, or do you prefer to have the input of other people? Are you highly organized, or do you just find things when you need them? What sorts of things are interesting and challenging to you? These are the sorts of things that you must bear in mind when investigating career options. And you must do thorough research on potential career options - it is not enough to like the sound of a job, or what you think that job entails. Library work, for example, is not all about reading books. In fact, these days it's mostly based on computers and customer service. By researching jobs thoroughly before you commit yourself to striving toward one in particular, you will avoid the wasted time and effort that might result from poor choices. So, what kind of rewarding and exciting careers do not necessarily require a university education? You may decide to focus on opportunities that place a premium on in-house training. For example, working with computers, and other hands-on practical jobs, ranging from things like carpentry and other trades, such as interior design, require skills that you can only obtain through practice, and are dependent on a natural ability, or learning as you go along, rather than a college degree. Do you have a creative flair that you could turn into the area of home design, or have you spent your life playing on your computer and fixing it yourself when it breaks? These are the sorts of skills that can be transformed into job seeking tools with a college qualification, but even without a college degree, could be marketed to employers. Some areas, such as real estate, alternative medicine, beauty therapy, might require taking some exams, but there are often few classes to attend, and you can study at home whenever you have time. A college degree can often focus on the theoretical and academic side of things, and can't give you the experience that you need to really understand many jobs. So, for example, while you can go to college to learn about economics and financial skills, a degree is not essential to enter and succeed in the high profile world of investment counsel. While a degree might give you useful theoretical knowledge, it cannot teach you the skills that you will need, such as financial acumen, self-confidence, and determination to succeed in that field. As you try to succeed based on hardwork and drive, you will undoubtedly encounter sceptics and foolish persons who believe that education and career success are things gained only through classrooms. You shouldn't allow them to hinder your progress, nor should you allow regular structural barriers to do so. For instance, it might seem obvious that a career in law, or teaching, is closed to you without a college degree. But if one of these professions is what you are interested in, then why not consider other approaches? With flexibility in your thinking, you might consider applying for positions as an administrative worker within a small law firm, or as a teaching assistant. Many such firms will take you on in a very junior role, but having witnessed your ability and dedication, will encourage you to rise up the ranks through on-the-job learning, or through a sponsored formal education. Countless other "foot in the door" opportunities exist, if you are willing to try a more flexible approach, and take a longer-term view in recognition of your less impressive academic credentials. Once again, do your research, and see what is available. The important thing is to never lose sight that there are always opportunities for advancement in this world - with or without a university degree. You may just have to look a little harder if you lack higher education. But ultimately, it is your creativity, dedication, and perseverance that will determine your career success. If you have these attributes then there's no stopping you. Get out there and prove that you can do what you set your mind to. __________________________________ By Fiona Condron
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