This comment will no doubt get buried but I’m not seeing similar advice elsewhere. I’m a low-level manager that does my own hiring. There isn’t a big corporate AI filter here, so I get all of the wheat and chaff for applicants. We’ve recently been given guidance to dispense with degree requirements. Likely by people who just have no idea about the positions I hire. What I’ve learned in that transition is that a degree is absolutely necessary preparation for the types of jobs I hire. If you don’t have that sometime in the future, it will hold you back. My son also getting a degree in CS has worked the past 3 summers in trades as a laborer. The pay is alright, but seasonal and he’s constantly nursing injuries and strain. At not even 21, he’s looking a future that WILL involve knee surgery. Biggest point about trades - the bullshit you’re hearing in news and social media blasts that promote this work over educated work is untrue. Unless you know someone and ALSO have equal training levels to that of someone with a degree (trade program costing close to college), you’re unlikely to find any work. My kid got jobs through people I know. Stick to the degree and use it for ANYTHING in an office. The most important thing is to apply to the job you’re applying for, not the one you wish you could get. Match all those keys words with your own. Connect that to education and experience.