From cosmetology to culinary arts and computer design, trade schools offer up an alternate education for many high school graduates. While four-year universities may be the educational choice for some students, others choose to attend a vocational college.

?Not everyone is cut out for a four-year liberal arts college,? Molly Sargent, English teacher, said. ?For some, it might not be the best use of their time.?

At these vocational colleges, students learn a specific craft according to their preferences. According to Jon Endicott, campus counselor, a low percentage of high school graduates attend a trade school, while some students go to a four-year university.

?I know Hannah Page [?03] went to cosmetology school after going to a Christian liberal arts college for two years,? Sargent said. “For her, vocational school was a good choice because she explored different areas of interest at Cal Baptist [Christian college in Riverside], and, after completing a couple of years there, decided what she really liked and was good at was styling hair.”

Cost also may enhance trade schools’ popularity verses four-year colleges. Trade schools can be less inexpensive and have lower academic expectations for applicants, especially when compared to schools such as Fresno State or Fresno Pacific University.

?It is a lot easier to get into a trade school,? Sargent said. ?I don’t have to do great on the SATs, and high grades are not required.?

For some, the quick graduation from most trade schools is the reason students attend.

?I am going to a vocational college of computer art and design,? Andrew King, ?06, said. ?It goes by more quickly than a regular four-year university, and plus, it is cheaper.?

Trade schools are often the right choice for a lot of students, yet wrong for others. Students who attend four-year universities have specific reasons for choosing their schools.

?I am planning on going to a four-year college when I graduate because I want to be a drama major,? Hanna Wilhelm, ?07, said. ?But if that does not work out, I want something like a business major that I can fall back on.?

Though few make the decision to skip a four-year college, those who do attend a trade school find numerous possibilities in the work field.

?Vocational college is what I want to do,? King said. ?It will give me options of what I can really do with myself once I graduate.?

Some students find that they need advice from parents, college counselors, or a higher power when deciding where they will attend college.

?Our first source for wisdom should always be the Holy Spirit,? Sargent said. ?The first step is to pray about choices. After that, think about what you want to do with yourself.

?If you know the course of study you want to pursue, then I would suggest a four-year college. If you are not sure, a two-year university is a good way to go. Four years at a university is not the best for everyone. Find what works for you and do not apologize for it.

“The Lord gives all of us different talents and abilities, which He expects us to utilize the best we can. This pleases God and enables us to live happier, more fulfilled lives.”

For more information on trade schools in and around Fresno, visit www.collegsurfing.com.