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Is first hand experience better than taking an educational course on the same subject?

I've read stories of people who, instead of going to college, went straight into the field of their desired occupation. Instead of taking the didactic courses on the specific subject, they simply learned through experience and were just as successful. #labor-relations #career #career-choice #career-counseling #college #higher-education

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Debra’s Answer

While both can serve you well, many occupations require some kind of educational diploma, degree or formal training. Going "straight into your desired occupation" is just not an option for many people. While there are a few jobs that will hire you with no higher education/training, those types of jobs are fewer than ever before. Many occupations also require some kind of licensure or certification - and that typically requires education/training and/or passing some kind of content exam. For example, to work as a barber or hair dresser in California, you are required to complete a training program at a state-approved program and then pass a state test. Most employers these days will look for someone with formal training and education. There are few "apprenticeships" - where you can get hired and be trained "on the job". Make sure you research your chosen occupation very well and ask lots of questions. It's also a good idea to talk with someone who works in the field you are interested in working in... to get first-hand information.

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Melissa’s Answer

it is best to have both. Employers want to see that you have attained a degree. This is a sign of character and shows that you can commit to completing something. You also learn the theory behind a practice. Working in the field gives you the competitive edge when you have a degree. if you can work during the summer and breaks in the field or work during the day and go to school at night, that would be ideal.
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Simeon’s Answer

If you're able to land a job without the degree, you can usually do a better job teaching yourself if you know which books to select and are motivated to read through them. Plus, experience makes the knowledge much more understandable in context. Unfortunately, there's not usually a choice about how to get into a lot of the positions necessary to start a career, so it can often be difficult to enter a field without a degree.
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