Out-of-Pocket or Schneider Apprenticeship Program

Hi All!!!

It's another post asking for advice/suggestions again.

I'm pretty sure I want to go with Schneider once I get my CDL. But, I do not know the best route for obtaining my CDL.

I have a CDL training company in the city I live in called 160 Driving Academy. They seem to be ok (at least from what I have read online).

In other posts I have made a few people said I should get my CDL before getting hired. So that makes me think. Should I obtain my CDL on my own then look for a driver position?

But, Schneider has their apprenticeship program so there is no money out of pocket to obtain a CDL. They charge you around $2500 if you leave before a certain amount of time/miles. The 160 Driving Academy is $5500.

Can I please get advice on why going the private way is better? I believe I will end up at Schneider either way.

I will be new with no experience. From what I gather, it's next to impossible to get a job fresh out of CDL school without experience unless you go with a Mega Carrier.

Thanks

 

I live in Rochester, MN 55902

 

Thank You. In great need of guidance