Should i go to bartending school?

i need a second job because my daytime job does not pay well. i was considering taking a bartending class but its 500 dollars, what are my options should i go to the school or should i just study a few bartending books and apply and also do i need a bartending certificate to work?Should i go to bartending school?
Don't go to bartending school. Its a waste of money. Restaurants don't care if you went to bartending school. Restaurant/bar/owners/managers will do one of two thing when hiring a new bartender:



1) They'll hire someone with prior experience

2) They'll promote a server.



Your best bet is to get a job as a sever and try to work your way up. This is an entry level position and you'll learn valuable customer service skills. A bartender's dictionary is always a good idea to keep on hand in case you forget how to make a drink. And, they will train you if you get the bartender promotion. And, yes, you'll need a state issued card or certificate in order to serve alcohol. Call your state liquor licensing board for info.Should i go to bartending school?
Bar Tending school is a waste of time and money!



As the prior person said the people who will hire you later do not care at all that you went to some school.



Best bet is just to get your foot in the door and take any job in any restaurant and go from there. You can usually go from server to bar back to bar tender.



I was even a cook they let tend bar once in a while.



Also, get the Boston Bar Tenders guide and study it because that gives you all of the basic/classic drinks. Don't worry about the "hip" drinks just yet. Those are going to vary by place anyway and you could drive yourself crazy because there are so many!



Also, if some one asks you for some funky drink don't worry just ask them what is in it and they should be able to tell you. If they can not tell you what is in it then just offer them something else.
if you take a second job at night you will neer have time to advance your first job. Then you'll be stuck working two jobs just to make ends meet for the rest of your life.



Don't do it.



Instead of spending money to try to get a second low level job, put your resources (time, effort, money,etc..) into getting a day job that pays you well. it's harder in the short-term but will surely pay off in the long term. When you have a really great job you'll have time to enjoy your life, some money to spend, healthcare, and happiness.



good luck, don't get trapped.Should i go to bartending school?
i'm a 30 year bartender and for the most part schools are a rip - off , they say they can help place you , but most of the time it's a joke , as in my case you either get lucky knowing someone who runs a bar or if your flat out sexy , a place wanting ( babrbie dolls ) that will train you , other wise get a job workin in the biz ( waiter ) and let it be known you want to learn how to bartend ...
no, from my exp. it is a waste, just start applying, get your liquor lic, and start gettin youre foot in the door! good luckShould i go to bartending school?
well if it is a good school and if it is worth it