Allotments 4 All

I faffed around on the dole in the 80s being an artist, which involved a lot of sleeping, smoking, and being skint. People kept saying I should get a degree, any degree, so I chose art as it didnt interfere with my lifestyle too much. No employer has ever checked any of my qualifications, and in some cases having a degree has gone against me - employers want to know why I am applying for an IT job and think I'm going to get bored [yes I will be sometimes, but arent most people?!]

If I could go back with my old-git wisdom I would leave school as early as possible and get an apprenticeship in plumbing, building, carpentry etc. Way more recession-proof than an office job!

I started with an apprenticeship as I didn't get the A levels for uni... about 20 years ago my starting salary was £4500 (I think), but it got me into the work mentality and I've never been unemployed.

It didn't seem to do me any harm in the long run as experience counts (in my industry) rather than a degree in art history or whatever. Also I'd hate to come out of uni with debt and have to compete against other graduates chasing the same job.

If I had the chance I'd do the same again but do open university rather than get mashed every weekend.

In fact maybe I'll look into it now!

Jon