Okay so my current situation is I’m 18 and finishing up my first year at Rutgers. My original dream was always to work as some type of engineer at Apple HQ. But after actually starting university, I don’t see myself going through 4+ more years of this. I’ve never really been someone who studies. In high school I got good grades, even in AP classes, without studying much. I’ve also never been a strong test taker. Now that everything is test-heavy and requires consistent studying, I haven’t been able to succeed and I don’t realistically see that changing on my current path.
So far I’ve only passed 6 credits this year. I went in planning to do computer engineering, but it doesn’t feel like it’s for me anymore. A big part of the problem is the focus on Gen Eds like math and physics. I really struggle to stay focused on them and end up failing.
Because of that, I started looking at other options. I have family in aviation maintenance, and my uncle told me about a program about 45 minutes away that takes around 18 months to complete. After that, I could get my A&P license. He also said he could help me get hired at an airline through his connections. My uncle and my dad both have 20+ years in the field, and they both make a good amount of money and live comfortable lives. I know it’s not as simple as it sounds, but it still seems like a much more direct path.
What stands out to me is that the A&P route is focused on actual hands-on material I would use in the field, instead of a lot of general classes I struggle with. From what I’ve heard, the pay is solid and can reach six figures within a few years, and the benefits are really good. I’ve already experienced some of those travel benefits through family, and I like that lifestyle. I’m also okay with the flexible hours that come with this kind of work.
Right now I see the A&P path as something I could realistically succeed in and build a stable career from. Something where I can support myself, eventually have a family, and live comfortably.
My main concern is that this feels like a one-way decision. If I leave Rutgers to pursue A&P, I know I can’t realistically come back. At the same time, I don’t see myself succeeding if I stay where I am now.
So I’m trying to figure out if it’s worth giving up the university path for something that feels like a better fit for me.
Thanks!