The Stigma of Choosing Trade School Over College
When college is held up as the one true path to success, parents — especially highly educated ones — might worry when their children opt for vocational school instead
By Meg St-Esprit
Toren Reesman knew from a young age that he and his brothers were expected to attend college and obtain a high-level degree. As a radiologist — a profession that requires 12 years of schooling — his father made clear what he wanted for his boys: “Keep your grades up, get into a good college, get a good degree,” as Reesman recalls it. Of the four Reesman children, one brother has followed this path so far, going to school for dentistry. Reesman attempted to meet this expectation, as well. He enrolled in college after graduating from high school. With his good grades, he got into West Virginia University — but he began his freshman year with dread. He had spent his summers in high school working for his pastor at a custom-cabinetry company. He looked forward each year to honing his woodworking skills, and took joy in creating beautiful things. School did not excite him in the same way. After his first year of college, he decided not to return.
He says pursuing custom woodworking as his lifelong trade was disappointing to…
