I was going to avoid commenting on this thread since I have no experience with the Canadian education system, but I did want to comment on a few things I've read here. First, I agree whole-heartedly that one of the greatest benefits to University is the exposure to different ideas, people, and experiences that you don't find in the trade schools I've seen (This is understandable: it's assumed you've chosen your path before you enroll in these schools). Furthermore, in many cases the trades will have you making very good money much more quickly than a degree typically will-perhaps more than some degrees ever will.

I would urge you to not rule out a liberal arts degree however, despite Mike in NC's sage words. In people I've interviewed for positions on our emergency response team, I've found with fair frequency that not only are candidates with a solid liberal arts degree better at communicating (written and oral), but also often better at problem solving. Of course I would add a caveat that a "solid" liberal arts degree to me would mean wise selection of electives: biology, chemistry, accounting/economics, and mathematics, or perhaps a minor in one of the scientific disciplines.

Bryan...no matter what you do, you've got to be able to communicate your intentions clearly...