The College Alternative or Supplement

     The other day I had the honor of being asked to do a motivational talk and be on the advisory board at Minuteman Tech.  My Cosmetology teacher who is now the head of the department contacted me because I am one of their “success stories”.   My “success” was helped immensely by the education and preparation that I had at Minuteman Tech and I accepted the position without hesitation.

     A lot of parents are convinced especially in this highly competitive community that college is the only option for students after high school. They are sorely mistaken.  Don’t get me wrong I am a firm believer that knowledge is power and I tell my son that every day when I drop him off at school.  But some parents don’t see that their child is incredibly creative and has a passion for something that may not require a degree.  And isn’t an example of being successful is doing something that you love to do? 

     Yes, I know we are the parents. Yes, I know we know what’s best.  But let’s be realistic; one day these children will be a young man or woman working at a computer or in a lab a realize that “Hey, what am I doing here?   This is not my passion!” So I beg of you parents, listen to your kids and nurture that direction that they want to go in.  A school like Minuteman Tech is a wonderful opportunity to let them grow, be creative and help them on their career path.  Not all of our children are going to want to be doctors and teachers; some may actually want to be (gasp! The horror!)  business people and entrepreneurs.  I am grateful to have a family that supported my career decisions.

     I look back at the years I spent at Minuteman with great fondness and satisfaction.  I am thrilled to find out that they are proud of me, because I sure am proud of them.