If you dropped out of school, for whichever reasons, you can still get up on your feet and consider various jobs to sustain yourself as you figure out your future education.
Mkenya Leo has compiled some jobs for you in a variety of industries to ensure you can find one that suits your interests and experience.
Take a look at these careers:
Photographer
A photographer refers to a professional that uses photographic and lighting techniques and equipment to capture images using a digital camera.
They analyze a photo’s composition, market and advertise their services, use photo-enhancing software to improve a subject’s overall appearance, maintain their photography equipment and communicate with their clients to set up a time, date and place for a photoshoot.
Even as a college dropout, you can increase your job prospects as a photographer through short courses and workshops.
Equipment operator
Equipment operators drive and control a variety of construction equipment. Some of this equipment includes dump trucks, bulldozers and forklifts. They operate this equipment to help with the construction of structures such as roads and buildings. As an equipment operator, you get on-the-job training which can help you improve your hand-eye coordination and build your physical strength.
Automotive mechanic
Automotive mechanics inspect a vehicle’s engine and its electrical and mechanical components. They determine which systems need repairs or upgrades.
Automotive mechanics also perform routine maintenance to help improve a vehicle’s longevity.
Despite not needing a degree, you can improve your skills in this profession through observation and by working under the supervision of an experienced mechanic.
You can also specialize in particular vehicles which can help you advance in your career as an automotive mechanic.
Plumber
Plumbers install and repair pipes and drainage systems.
They essentially diagnose and repair plumbing issues. Plumbers work alongside electricians and general contractors and reference building plans and blueprints.
Office manager
Office managers organize an office’s administrative activities. Some of their duties may include hiring and firing employees, resolving office disputes, handling correspondence and supervising the work of the administrative staff. Office managers also greet visitors, coordinate meetings and manage staff calendars.
Online Writer
Writers create written content for online or print publications. They edit and proofread their content for spelling, grammar and punctuation before submitting their work.
Writers also market and distribute their work. Writers take several forms such as authors, journalists and bloggers.
Massage therapist
Massage therapists use touch to manipulate their client’s muscles and soft tissues. They help alleviate pain, heal injuries, improve circulation and provide overall relaxation.
Instead of earning a degree, you can take part in a massage therapy program that provides you with training and certification.
Sales representative
Sales representatives promote and sell products and services using a variety of sales tactics. They provide solid arguments to convince prospective customers that they need what they’re selling.
They analyze both existing and potential customers to determine their needs and recommend the right products and services. Sales representatives create positive relationships with both businesses and their customers.
Videographer
Videographers capture moving images using various electronic media.
They plan video shoots alongside their client and the creative team, edit footage in post-production, set up and maintain their video equipment and guide other camera operators so they capture the right footage.
While some videographers capture sporting events, others take video footage at a wedding. Just as with a photography career, you can gain more job prospects through videography courses and workshops to help you hone your craft.
Construction technician
These people work in construction sites where they are tasked with mixing cement and concrete and doing all the basic work at construction sites. This work is suitable for form four leavers and school drop out because it requires no skills.
In a good day, someone working as a construction technician can make Ksh1, 500 in Nairobi or even more if you are given the supervisory role. Those working in other towns make up to Ksh 1,000.
