Is it better to work or stay in school?

Dear Nanay,
I am currently a second-year college student and I feel like school is not for me. I want to leave school and start working to help my family make ends meet. My parents want me to stay in school to finish my studies.
— Carmen

Dear Carmen,

At some point in their lives, many students feel that they want to leave school for a variety of reasons. Some feel that they don’t belong. Some just want to start earning their own money so they don’t have to depend on their parents. And, like me, some just can’t afford to stay in school.

Education is a very important part of your life. Although it is not a necessity to succeed, it will better equip you to deal with the many challenges you will face, both in your career and in your personal life.

If you really want to start working, I admire your resolve. However, I suggest that you take even a few subjects at a time. Attend evening or weekend classes. You will be surprised that eventually, you will also complete your degree. You never know when you will need that piece of paper in the future. And the longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to go back to school. Do it a little at a time. Besides, sayang naman yung inumpisahan mo kaya tapusin mo na.

Having an education is a privilege. There are many people who dream of going to school but are denied the opportunity. Do not take it for granted. And remember, no matter what happens, nobody will ever be able to take your education away from you.

Sincerely,

— Nanay

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Dear Nanay,
I have some savings and want to start my own business. Do you think I should go out on my own or should I just start a franchise?
— Alan

Dear Alan,

Starting your own business and buying into a franchise both have their advantages and disadvantages.

As you probably know, although you have to pay a franchise fee and royalties on your profits, as a rule, franchised businesses are much more stable and, to make a long story short, hindi ka na kailangan mag-isip masyado. That is basically because someone else has done all the thinking for you and that is the knowledge you get in exchange for the franchise fee and royalties.

On the other hand, if you start your own business, although you have to absorb all the risk, all the profit will also be yours. And you cannot underestimate the value of the pride of having your own successful business.

I think only you can answer whether you will franchise or go into business by yourself. It really depends on your personality. Some people would rather follow a tried and tested formula while others would rather challenge themselves by going on their own. Some people want an investment that is relatively safer, while others are bigger risk takers and are more entrepreneurial in nature.

But if you really want me to make a choice, I would say if you have a good idea, then go for it! I always prefer to have my own fate in my own hands. I like to do things myself and not let others do the thinking for me. If it is my business, its success will be my success. And when your business is successful, then you can franchise it out to other people and collect the franchise fee and royalties from them!

Sincerely,

— Nanay

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If you have a question, e-mail asknanay@nationalbookstore.com.ph or just drop your letter at drop boxes in all National Book Store branches nationwide.