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im a senior in high school been welding for two years now. i have competed in a few competitions for scholarships and want to go to a welding school but dont have the money. i'm thinking about getting a job and saving money for school for the first year outta highschool before going to welding school. iv'e decided on going to united welding institute in pottsville Arkansas tuition is 12,000 and i am trying to find ways to get the money if you have any opinions on what i should do please reply or email me at [email protected] edited by andyr; 04-05-2015 at 09:51 PM.
Reply:Seems to me you have the right idea....getting a job and saving the money up.  Might as well try to get a job in a welding shop somewhere, even if you're only sweeping floors.  If you can't find work there, try to find something in construction at least....there are certain similarities in how work is done regardless of material type.  If you can live at home while you're doing it and sock the money away in the bank instead of letting it dribble through your fingers, you should be able to save up your needed money in a year, or two at the most.  And when you get to your trade school, you'll have a leg up on other students fresh out of high school.  There's a lot to working in the industry that isn't taught in a classroom.
Reply:12,000 may sound like a lot but it really isn't. Get a job now and if you can save $500 a month you will have it in two years and you will have a heck of lot of experience to boot. I would not take out any student loans they suck but I would check and see if you are eligible for any grants.
Reply:Are there any opportunities for a apprenticeship in your area ? Does the school guarantee a placement after completion ? Contact graduated students and see what they have to say . Discuss employment with perspective employers and see if going to school would help getting the job. You could fine employers would prefer to teach you "THEIR '' way of doing things. Good luck.
Reply:All the kids that have graduated were given jobs and they will find you a job. I think im just gonna find a job now and save to go next year
Reply:You should talk to the financial aid office of the school. There are federal and state programs for trade schools. I can't speak to Arkansas, but students in Georgia actually make money attending school through a combination of grants and scholarships for welding students.
Reply:Find you a job in the welding industry. This is THE BEST WAY to get your foot in the door and learn the trade.
Reply:Please allow me to add my Ditto's to the advice you have been given.1. Get a job where welding is done.2. Save your money, part of every bit you get. Look for the best value, not necessarily the lowest price, in every expense you make.3. Reduce your personal expenses, separate what you want or would like to have from what you need. Living at home, if it can be done is a great way to help you save towards tuition.4. Avoid unnecessary debt.Good Luck and Welcome to the forum.I offer three choices: Good, Fast, & Cheap. You may pick two.Hobart AC/DC StikMate LXHarbor Freight AD HoodHarbor Freight Industrial Chop SawDeVilbis 20 Gallon, 5 HP Compressor