u/WeatherOk6949

I’m feeling really stuck and would appreciate some honest advice.

I recently graduated with a background in environmental science + human geography, and I’ve been applying to jobs but haven’t landed anything yet. I’m considering roles around ~$50K, and if I get one, part of me just wants to settle into it for stability and not be drowned in student debt. But at the same time, I’ve been accepted into a dental hygiene program starting January 2027 for 1.5 years.

Here’s my dilemma:

Option 1: Take the job (~$50K)

• No tuition debt
• Start earning right away
• Gain experience
• But salary growth might be slow and I’m not sure I’ll ever reach a high income

Option 2: Go into dental hygiene

• 1.5 years of school + $60K tuition
• Program is intense (this honestly scares me and I’m worried I won’t pass)
• But hygienists in Ontario can make ~$70–100K+

Some extra context:

• I’ll have investment money coming in around 2031 (the amount is pretty decent)
• I’m also thinking long-term about buying a home and financial stability with my partner
• I like the idea of dental hygiene being stable and higher-paying, but the risk + school stress is holding me back

I guess my biggest fears are:

• Going into debt and not succeeding in the program
• Or staying in a lower-paying path and regretting it later

Has anyone been in a similar situation or chosen between school vs. a stable job? What would you do in my position?

Thanks in advance

I’m feeling really stuck and would appreciate some honest advice.

I (23F) recently graduated with a background in environmental science + human geography, and I’ve been applying to jobs but haven’t landed anything yet. I’m considering roles around ~$50K, and if I get one, part of me just wants to settle into it for stability and not be drowned in student debt. But at the same time, I’ve been accepted into a dental hygiene program starting January 2027 for 1.5 years.

Here’s my dilemma:

Option 1: Take the job (~$50K)

• No tuition debt
• Start earning right away
• Gain experience
• But salary growth might be slow and I’m not sure I’ll ever reach a high income

Option 2: Go into dental hygiene

• 1.5 years of school + $60K tuition
• Program is intense (this honestly scares me and I’m worried I won’t pass)
• But hygienists in Ontario can make ~$70–100K+

Some extra context:

• I’ll have investment money coming in around 2031 (the amount is pretty decent)
• I’m also thinking long-term about buying a home and financial stability with my partner
• I like the idea of dental hygiene being stable and higher-paying, but the risk + school stress is holding me back

I guess my biggest fears are:

• Going into debt and not succeeding in the program
• Or staying in a lower-paying path and regretting it later

Has anyone been in a similar situation or chosen between school vs. a stable job? What would you do in my position?

Thanks in advance