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Should I go back to school? (lemmy.world)

submitted 10 months ago* (last edited 10 months ago) by kl0udbug@lemmy.world to c/toronto@lemmy.ca

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I figured I'd post this in the Toronto instance because people living here would understand my dilemma a bit better.

I'm currently WFH doing L1 help desk work.

I had ended up homeless at one point and could not finish my education. Now that I'm mostly stable I've been thinking about going to college, which I think is especially important in Canada because >58% of people have a college or university credential.

Option 1: I finish my computer networking diploma part-time. Would take me a year.

Option 2: I forgo my education for a bit and attain the CCNA while looking for opportunities to leave helpdesk.

Option 3: I start an online degree like WGU/Athabasca and graduate in 4 years

I think I'm supposed to finish my diploma, but it would take me 3 years to finish a 2 year diploma. The choice seems really obvious but I'm at a loss. I don't want to remain uneducated but it's hard for me to find the time or money to commit to full time schooling. Hope this post made sense.

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[–] DredPyr8Roberts@lemmy.world 13 points 10 months ago (1 children)

A diploma does not create opportunities, but not having one will close doors. I know because I don't have one. If it will only take a year, get the degree if it doesn't break the bank. Otherwise, stay employed and stay relevant with current tech by getting/renewing certifications every couple of years.

[–] lol_idk@piefed.social 6 points 10 months ago

What this person said, plus get it before you're old. Basically just get it over with instead of putting it off.

[–] scott_anon_21@lemmy.ca 5 points 10 months ago (1 children)

“Mostly stable”. Depending on what is implied by that could strongly influence my advice. Sometimes upgrading your skills while maintaining your income stream is best. It is also possible to progress upwards without ever acquiring that piece of paper. Though I agree that it can create some challenges as previous posters suggest, I have people in my circle who have been quite successful without a college or university diploma / degree. And do not discount the plethora of free training available online these days.

[–] n7gifmdn@lemmy.ca 1 points 9 months ago* (last edited 9 months ago)

Sometimes

This assumes it is not always, which I disagree, unless maybe your family is rich.

[–] 1985MustangCobra@lemmy.ca 1 points 9 months ago

short answer: yes, depending on the field you go into