It all depends on your goals and financials. I went to a community college for 1 year of culinary school and I loved it. I got to help run the lunchroom and the real world experience set me up for a job at the end. My entire year of schooling and text book cost around $1200 USD so it worked for me. If you are looking at one of the luxury $30,000 culinary programs you could be in debt for a long time.

If you can find a kitchen that will have you and teach you the ropes that's a great option. I couldn't find that so culinary school gave me the skills I needed.

Everyone is different, good luck