University VS Apprenticeships - Which should you choose?

Picking the right path after finishing school can be difficult. Here are our list of pros and cons for both university and apprenticeships / trainee roles to help you decide which might be the best fit for you.

University 

• New learning environment - a chance to immerse yourself in a subject you love.
• Living away from home - an opportunity to develop personally, and learn to look after yourself.
• Meeting like-minded people - you will meet a whole new group of people from various backgrounds, all there to learn and grow too. 

However, 

• Potentially expensive - you must consider a structured plan for the payment of living & course fees, alongside rent.
• Graduate jobs aren't guaranteed - you’re not guaranteed a graduate job, you will still need to gain industry experience after you graduate. 
• You’ll be committing to 3 years - in one area. If you aren't sure which degree to take, take a step back and start with an apprenticeship or internship. 

Apprenticeships or Trainee roles 

• Hands on experience - learning hands on is the steepest learning curve but very rewarding, with quick progression.  
• Contacts in that industry - you will start meeting valuable contacts in your industry from the get go. 
• Earn while you learn - no debt to pay back and you can start saving money whilst learning your new profession. 

However, 

• You might limit your options - ensure not to stick with the first opportunity that heads your way. Explore all options. 
• Potentially lower entry level salary - in some industries, graduates will be offered a higher base or entry-level salary. 
• You’ll miss out on university life - there is no doubt that university broadens horizons, seek independency. 

For expert advice from the recruitment specialists on any aspect of your career, email consultants@1strecruit.co.uk or call 01534 875444 in Jersey or 01481 736444.