A third of UK students say that they regret attending University. The likes of Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, Steve Jobs and Lady Gaga all pay testament to the idea that you do not need a university degree to become a self-made million/billionaire.
According to the Office of National Statistics, 29% of graduates earn less than those that entered the workplace straight from college or via an apprenticeship.
The idea of discovering a profession that does not involve a degree may seem like a daunting prospect. Luckily for us, the experts at Finance.co.uk give us the low down on what industry to build a career in.
Marketing
Consider yourself an ‘ideas person’? Then Marketing may be the industry for you. Entry level roles in the marketing industry can begin at £18,000 however, those that entered the industry through internships and persevered can see themselves reach a salary of over £45,000 by the time they hit there early 30s’s.
Entrepreneur
Found a gap in the market? Believe that you have a ‘unicorn’ idea? A born self-starter? Perhaps a life in the office is not for you and entrepreneurship is calling. Zuckerberg and Gates are both ‘college dropouts’ and quit the books to build an empire. A decision not to be taken lightly however, if you are motivated and determined, perhaps now is the time to start constructing your own empire.
Digital industry
If SEO, CRO, PPC and Adwords are not just jargon terms to you, then perhaps you are born to be digital. In such a fast-moving industry, it is arguable that once you leave University, what you have learnt is irrelevant as the latest Google update has shaken the industry once more and new tactics are required.
A life in the digital industry can begin with unpaid internships however, a thirst for knowledge, a willingness to learn and some hard graft can see that you are earning upwards of £50,000
HR Manager
If you are hyper organised, great at speaking to people and can offer an impartial voice in difficult situations, then a career in HR may be the route for you. Joining the industry as an admin assistant will ensure that you have a foot in the door and there are various online courses that you can use to brush up on your knowledge.
HR Managers within the corporate sector for global companies can earn upwards of £100,00 on a yearly basis.
PA
The role of a Personal Assistant is one that you can enter straight from school. Positivity is key, as is organisation, patience and the ability to stay cool under pressure. A lot of travel is usually necessary within the role and you are likely to be on call however, do not let the likes of the Devil Wears Prada put you off. A lot of companies view their PAs as vital cogs within the workplace machine.
The salary of a Personal Assistant can vary however, depending on the length of service and scope of work, a salary within this industry is limitless.
Air Steward
Travelling the world on a weekly basis may seem like a huge workplace perk. However, the life of an air steward can also ensure that you save most of your salary on your travels. The bigger airlines are known to provide their staff with accommodation and a separate salary for their long-haul flights. Over the course of the year, the savings towards your salary can amount to a hefty sum!
Air stewards usually have a starting salary of £20,000 – £25,000 a year.
Holiday rep
Although the starting salary of a holiday rep can be considered rather low, the opportunity to gain commission for holiday excursions is limitless. The chance to travel the world can be priceless however, the exchange rates and cost of living can also work in your favour with it being significantly less than in the UK.
Personal Shopper
If you hold an eye for detail and consider yourself a ‘people person’, then a personal shopper could be your calling. A starting salary may be low however, commission tends to be incredibly high. The need for a personal shopper may seem like a luxury however, the role can now be seen in many high street clothing chains as well as the high-end department stores.
