Bring Vocational Programs Back to High School by Lillian

Bring Vocational Programs Back to High School by Lillian - September 2025 Scholarship Essay

Over the next decade, I hope to see a fundamental shift in our education system. A change that recognizes and celebrates diverse paths to success beyond a four-year college degree. While higher education remains a critical component for many, the current model’s singular focus on an academic track overlooks the unique talents and ambitions of countless students. The most impactful change we can make is to reintegrate trades and vocational training into high schools. This, in my opinion, would provide a more balanced curriculum that prepares every student for a meaningful and prosperous future.
For too long, students have been sold on the idea that a college degree is the only way to get a respectable career and make money. This narrative has devalued the skilled trades. As a result, many students who are not academically inclined are left feeling that their skills and interests are somehow less valid and important. I have struggled in traditional classes yet found that I possess a profound talent for working with my hands and creating tangible things. I have excelled in my cosmetology program that I was lucky enough to get into at our local career training center. I have met dozens of students that, just like me, felt like the trades are our calling.
Bringing back vocational programs in high schools would provide a powerful alternative. These programs could offer hands-on training and industry certifications, allowing students to graduate with marketable skills and a direct pipeline to well-paying jobs. By learning a trade, students would not only gain valuable career skills but also build confidence and a sense of purpose. This change would not only better prepare a diverse student population for the workforce but also rebuild a much-needed appreciation for the essential skills that keep our world running. It honors all forms of intelligence and empowers students to build a future they can be proud of.