In today’s day and age, chances are you’ve heard that you need to get a college education if you want to make something of yourself. That’s not necessarily true. Sure, a college education may help you land some jobs, such as a teacher or a doctor, but it’s not a necessity in order to find success in your life. Not everyone was designed to go to college, and that’s okay. If you are one of those people who knows that a traditional four-year college or university isn’t right for you, then here are some alternatives you can check out.

Nail Technician

Do you enjoy using nail polish to create fun pedicures or eye-catching manicures? Did you know you could turn this skill into a good-paying job? Nail technicians can make a lot of money, especially if you operate as a sole proprietor. Many beauty salons will rent out space inside, so you can work as a nail tech in a hair salon and generate a lot of business. Plus, you will not have a lot of overhead, which means you can snag a great salary. There are plenty of nail technician schools out there where you can learn more about the business side and hone your skills, and you can be out in the working world in less than a year.

Tattoo Artist or Body Piercer

If you have a knack for drawing and artistic expression, you should consider being a tattoo artist or body piercer. There are plenty of tattoo and body piercing trade schools out there where you can learn more about the art, such as the Academy of Responsible Tattooing. You can also try to find an apprenticeship with a local tattoo artist so you can learn from someone in the business. Most tattoo artists and body piercers are affiliated with a parlor, but they make their own money. This means that your customers are your customers, and while some of your profit may go toward renting out space, it’s still a nice gig and you get to do what you love at your own hours. If college isn’t for you, try tattoo school so you can earn a fun career.

Radio

If you love music and have an interesting personality, you should consider being a radio dee-jay. These individuals don’t necessarily have to go to a traditional school to earn a degree. Instead, there are programs and schools out there specifically for radio broadcasting. There, you will learn the tricks of the trade and have an opportunity to get your foot in the door. This will allow you to find a job at a radio station and spend your days talking to listeners and listening to music.

Cosmetology

If you enjoy beauty, then there are plenty of cosmetology schools out there that can help you find a career you love in a shorter amount of time. Cosmetologists can focus on a variety of skills, from esthetician to makeup to even hair. At these schools, you’ll learn how to do the basics of your job, but you’ll also learn about skin/hair conditions and other issues so that you’re more knowledgeable at your job. This way, when you’re talking with clients, you’ll be able to help them address their skin issues too. Plus, most cosmetology schools are a little under a year to complete, so you can get out working in the real world before you know it.

Computer Programming

Computers are here to stay, so it’s a safe bet to choose a career that involves working with computers. If IT is your specialty, you can get a degree or certification in computer programming. These programs can vary in length, but you will be able to spend your time focusing on the topic and career choice you want instead of dealing with the pre-requisites that don’t interest you. Find a program in your area that offers the certification you’re after, and then use this to find the job of your dreams.

Don’t let anyone tell you that you need to attend a traditional school in order to find a job that makes you happy. Instead, if you know what you want to do, find the program that will allow you to further your skill and help you land the job of your dreams without ever stepping foot in a college.