That is a difficult one. I was only 13 years old, so I had a LOT less to think about or be reponsible for. Right now I have a good job, but I still don't get enough hours, and just today I ran out of gas on the way to work because I simply didn't have enough money to fill up. I have the best barn and trainer and horses to ride that I've ever had, but that costs about 90% of my paycheck.
Right now I have about a month to decide where I'm going. I had a plan lined up but I'm starting to have second thoughts. I'm leaning towards finding a live-in groom/rider job at a top show stable and doing that for a year.
I don't think I can judge what time was better since they are so different.