Going back to school and learning on the job are both viable options for career advancement and developing new skills. Hospitality is a hands-on field. So, which is better preparation for a career? Here we discuss the pros and cons of both options.
Formal education can provide a structured learning environment, which can be helpful for gaining knowledge and skills in a specific field. A degree or certification from a reputable institution can open up new job opportunities and command a higher salary. Going back to school can be a valuable networking opportunity, as you will have the chance to connect with other professionals and instructors in your field.
There is a wide variety of continuing education courses available online, from degrees to vocational programs to professional development courses, you will be able to find one that suits your career goals. Degrees take years while certificates and diplomas, months. You learn what you need and get started with certificates and diplomas. Make sure you pick a program that is accredited from a U.S. Department of Education recognized agency.
Going back to school can be expensive, especially if you're paying for tuition out of pocket. It can be difficult to balance school with other responsibilities, such as work or family. The knowledge you gain in school may not always be immediately applicable to your job, and you may not be able to apply it until you graduate or find a new job. This last point merits some discussion. Theoretical knowledge is what people often associate with school. It is true that with a university, that is the bulk of the learning. Vocational or professional schools emphasize practical learning, so do balance your needs knowing what the educational institution you pick offers.
Learning on the job allows you to apply the knowledge and skills you gain immediately in your work. You are often able to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule, which can be more flexible than a formal education program. Also, learning on the job can be less expensive than going back to school.
The knowledge and skills you gain on the job may be specific to your current employer and may not be easily transferable to other companies. It may be more difficult to receive recognition for your accomplishments when learning on the job, and the path for advancement may not be as clear.
Without a structured learning environment, you may have to seek out opportunities for learning on your own and may not have as much support as you would in a formal education setting.
There are pros and cons for each option. Schooling is often considered a shortcut as you learn best practices, rather than through avoidable mistakes that have real life costs to your reputation and career.
At TISOH: The International School of Hospitality, you can learn the skills to become a top-level hospitality professional - through both traditional classroom learning as well as on-the-job hands-on training. A TISOH credential demonstrates to employers a level of skill, knowledge, and dedication. TISOH has the industry connections, professional faculty, and accredited curriculum to position students for success in the hospitality industry. TISOH, located in the heart of Las Vegas, offers in class and online programs to kickstart hospitality careers. With TISOH, students are positioned to make their entrance into the resurging hospitality field. To learn more, call 702-947-7200, or contact TISOH here, to get started today.
