One of my personal finance students, Lane Peeler, downloaded a screencast on youtube showing how a plumber could end up far wealthier than a doctor.

It was an Opportunity Cost project where students considered the long term costs between two choices. In this case, the choice was between becoming a doctor or a plumber.

After extensive time in school, the doctor begins working much later than the plumber, but earns a higher salary. 

The plumber starts working (and investing!) earlier, on a lower salary, but doesn’t have to pay high tuition costs for his or her education.

Lane’s analysis is fascinating.  Check it out below.