In today’s diverse and ever-changing career market, getting a college degree isn’t as helpful to young Americans as it once was. Trade school, on the other hand, allows students to master the skills necessary to start a lucrative profession that offers continued job security. Unfortunately, convincing parents that trade school is the right choice may not always be easy. If your parents have always expected you to go to a traditional university, here are a few tips for telling them you’d rather go to a technical school.    

How to Get Your Parents to Support Your Trade School Decision

1. Time It Right

When getting parents to hear you out, you need their undivided attention. Have the trade school talk at a time where there are no distractions and when everyone is in a receptive mood. You might not get the best response if you bring up the topic when your parents are rushing off to work or are tired after a long day. If it’s tough to find a comfortable moment, ask them to share a meal with you.

2. Picture Future Plans

When parents have strong thoughts about your educational plans, it’s usually because they are concerned about you having a happy and fulfilling future. To show them you’re serious about technical school, appeal to this concern and discuss how it plays into your plans—and your happiness. For example, explain why you want to pursue a specific technical career and how the profession will help you achieve other goals down the road.

3. List the Benefits

In the event your parents have always planned on you attending college, it’s possible that they simply have never explored the possibility of trade school. With that in mind, explain how these institutions work and what benefits they offer. For instance, comparing tuition rates could show them just how technical school is much more affordable than a four-year university. It might also be worth discussing how trade school programs can be completed faster than a bachelor’s degree, allowing you to enter the workforce sooner rather than later.  

Another way to ensure your parents are comfortable with your decision is to choose a trade school they can trust in—such as Berk Trade and Business School. Located in Long Island City, NY, this affordable technical institute offers comprehensive programs in many in-demand fields—such as plumbing and electrical services. In addition to providing top-notch instruction from experienced professionals, this institution also offers placement assistance to help all their graduates find steady employment. To learn more about their programs, visit this school online or call an admissions representative at (718) 729-0909.