I graduated high school and i immediately started working for my uncle.. now im kinda in deep.

Question

I started working for my uncles construction company in his office right after i graduated a little over 2 years ago.. i didnt go to college and the company is kinda hurting (due to suck a** ownership) and might not make it much longer.. well now i have a truck that i pay for and an apartment which i would probably drowned if not for the income.. its Estimating construction / project managing.. Im good at my job.. but if the company were to go under, with the economy.. i would not be able to find this kinda job.. especially being so young.. i was wondering what the best path to take would be for a high school graduate who has a life based around his income (like an IDIOT) and cant really afford to go back to school?!

Answer 1

Do you think it might be possible to get another job in construction like actually swinging a hammer?  Maybe you could get on with another crew that way, then make a good suggestion or two for saving money on that job (not like being a smart-mouth, but like in a truly helpful way) so that the boss can see that you're a good project manager and give you a chance at doing that on his next project?  Even if you're young, if you're really good (and the company, even if it goes under) ought to give you a good recommendation.

Check into the kind and amount of financial aid you might be eligible for, for going back to school.  You may be pleasantly surprised at how much they'll let you have under "living expenses", in addition to your tuition and books.  Then you'll know for sure whether you can go back to school or not.  Ask the college about special financial aid for some category you might be in.  My friend qualified for a certain amount because her father was a veteran.  Another friend got a certain amount because her father worked for a certain company.  Think about any "special qualifications" you might have, and ask the college financial aid office about it.  It's their job!

Good Luck!

Answer 2

I understand that the construction business is hurt by the bad housing market. Its never to late to improve your life and get an education.

I would start by going to your high school counselor or any counselor from your high school ask what you can do to get started on a new path or how your totally awesone skills can help in another field. A career couselor would be able to help too but they ask for money and that's what you need lol :)

Age is on your side you have time don't worry. While you are still in the business make some connections. trust me connections can help in any profession. Compile a list of people you worked for (names and numbers) successsful projects in which you had a major part and start making calls. They might be able to hook you up with a company that's not struggling or some freelance jobs that can lead to more. Getting all these references is also good for a resume. Ask your counselor to help you with that too. Resumes help get your foot in the door. As for going back to school you can do it. That's what federal help and loans are for. I know I know getting a loan sounds blah but education is an investment for your life. You can get a business/entrepenuer degree or get a technical degree from a technical school. You have tons of options my friend keep asking around you've taken the 1st step.

Good luck! hope I helped :)

Answer 3

For the moment, look and see what your options are.  Check the newspaper, surrounding area newspapers, and online classifieds for available jobs.  You should look at some web sites that specialize in matching prospective employees to employers that are looking for people with sought after specialized abilities.  I think job-dango is one of these and after filling out an online resume' you are on display for employers who are looking for your skill set.  It may turn out you need to re-locate to a place where your skills are going to stay in demand despite the economy.  It is possible that you can (with your experience) find a job doing what you are good and experienced at for the same or better income.  The bottom line is that you need to look out for your self and your ability to provide for yourself.  Another option is finding two local jobs to try and cover your truck payment and lower your rental expense by getting a cheaper place... Best of luck to you, at least you are trying to think ahead, and that is wise.. and do yourself a favor .. DON'T refer to yourself as an idiot!  You have done a fine job to come straight out of school and be so productive.  That's nothing near idiotic.  Once you are stable and secure with your employment, you can look toward some extra schooling to further your education.  The last thing you need now is to be without sufficient income to stay afloat and the added burden of college bills plus the load of doing your coursework!