5 Alternative Paths to Success That Won’t Leave Your Teen in Debt (And Might Even Put Them Ahead of the Curve)

When it comes to our teens' futures, most of us were taught there’s only one “real” path to success:

• Go to college
• Get a job (hopefully)
• Pay off student loans until retirement

Sound familiar?

But here’s the truth: That path doesn’t work for everyone—and that doesn’t mean your teen is lazy, lost, or doomed.

It might actually mean they’re paying attention.

College Isn’t the Only Ticket to Success

If your teen isn’t jazzed about college, it can feel scary. We want them to have options. We want them to feel secure. We want to do this right.

But pressuring them down a path that doesn’t fit just because it worked for some people? That’s not security—that’s stress in a cap and gown.

In my latest podcast episode of Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam, I sat down with Hannah Maruyama, founder of Degree Free, who’s helped thousands of families explore smart, debt-free alternatives to the traditional college track.

And let me tell you: This episode is a game-changer.

So, What Are the Alternatives?

Here are 5 powerful, practical roads to success that don’t require a college degree—and can still lead to a fulfilling, well-paying, future-proof career.

1. Get a Job

Great for: Independent teens who want real-world experience fast

The advantage: Builds real-world knowledge, teaches responsibility, and helps them figure out what they actually enjoy (or don’t)—way beyond the classroom.

Bonus: Earn while they learn, and many companies now offer tuition reimbursement for continued education!

First step: Help them explore entry-level roles in industries that interest them—retail, food service, trades, healthcare, or tech support are great starting points.

2. Apprenticeships & On-the-Job Training

Great for: Hands-on learners who want to get paid while they train

The advantage: Combines skill-building with income. Apprenticeships can lead to high-paying jobs in trades, tech, and beyond—without student loans.

Bonus: Many include built-in certifications or pathways to management.

First step: Look into programs offered by unions, companies, or state-sponsored training programs. Bonus: Many are open to 16–18 year olds!

3. Certifications & Licenses

Great for: Teens ready to specialize without spending 4+ years in a classroom

The advantage: Fast-tracks them into high-demand fields like IT, healthcare, cosmetology, real state, or fitness—no degree required.

Bonus: Many programs are online and can be completed in under a year.

First step: Explore programs in areas they’re already interested in—like coding bootcamps, EMT training, or cosmetology licenses.

4. Start or Join a Business

Great for: Creative teens with an entrepreneurial spark

The advantage: Teaches leadership, resourcefulness, and how to solve real problems. Whether freelancing, reselling online, or launching a brand—it’s the ultimate crash course in business.

Bonus: There’s no ceiling on potential… and it can start small.

First step: Help them brainstorm business ideas that align with their strengths—then guide them in building a basic plan, website, or online store.

5. 🧠 Learn a Skill + Build a Portfolio

Great for: Self-motivated teens who thrive on project-based learning

The advantage: Today’s job market values proof over paper. A killer portfolio in coding, design, videography, writing, or photography can open just as many doors as a diploma.

Bonus: Many teens teach themselves with YouTube, online courses, or mentorships.

First step: Encourage them to pick a skill, complete a few small projects, and start sharing their work—on social or a personal website.

Why This Matters More Than Ever

College can be a great choice—but it shouldn’t be the default choice.

When teens don’t see themselves in the “traditional” mold, they often feel like failures. But they’re not. They’re just wired for something different—and something just as valuable.

That’s why we need to stop asking: “Where are you going to college?”

And start asking: “What kind of life do you want to create?”

Listen to the Full Episode 🎧

Want help navigating this with your teen?

In my conversation with Hannah Maruyama, we dig into:

• How the “college industrial complex” has created a pressure cooker for families

• Why most teens don’t even know what jobs exist (and how to fix that)

• How to reframe success in your home

• Concrete ways to explore all 5 alternative paths—starting today

🎧 LISTEN NOW: Is College the Only Way? Smarter Career Paths for Teens That Don’t Involve Student Debt on Apple | Spotify | iHeart | YouTube

📲 Or search for Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam on your favorite podcast platform

Bottom line?

Your teen’s success isn’t about where they go.

It’s about who they become—and what they build.

Let’s help them build something amazing.

Want more support like this every week?

Be sure to subscribe to the podcast and follow me on Instagram @DrCamCaswell for more real talk, expert tips, and practical scripts to connect with your teen.

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