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Should I go to college after highschool?

I feel like if I don’t go it may impact me later in the future with finding a job.

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Sheila’s Answer

Hi Jensen:

When I was growing up the world was more simple and less complex. Today, everything is urgent, rushed, competitive, etc. I suggest that if you aren't sure about going to college perhaps start by taking one or two online courses in something that you're interested in. Having a college degree is to your advantage but, not all careers require one. So while you're trying to figure it out consider a few online courses. Best of luck to you!

~ Sheila
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Daniel’s Answer

Great Question Jensen!

I would encourage you to think about what career path you want to take in life. If you desire to work a skilled labor job such as an electrician, plumber, carpenter, welder, etc. then you don't necessarily have to attend college. You could acquire these skills at a technical school or do an apprenticeship. Once you learn these skills the above jobs usually pay very well. However, if you desire an industry that does not have that much skilled labor I would encourage you to go to college. The longer you wait the harder it can be to make a decision.

If you do not know what path to take then I would encourage you to work part time and go knock out some basics at college part time. By doing this you are not locking down a degree path but you are still moving forward in your journey. I know its hard not to but do your best not to get stressed out by this decision. Each day is a gift and its not worth wasting time on undue stress/worry.

All the best to you!
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Bill’s Answer

Jensen this is going to be an "It all depends" answer.
It depends on what you want to do in the future. College is one option but there are also options like trade schools and certificates.
If you have a burning desire to be a white collar worker (sorry that is what we call people who work in offices in Australia, as opposed to blue collar workers who are trade workers. No disrespect to anyone intended.) I would suggest that a degree in your chosen field would be very advantageous.
If you wanted to go into services, hospitality or the like then a trade school might be better.
There is also the option of taking some time out of study and join the workforce at an entry level in an area that interests you to gain some experience before going back to formal education.
Ultimately there are many ways to get where you want to go. See if you can contact people in the industry you are thinking of joining and see what their views are.
Wishing you all the bast and hope this helps.

Bill
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david’s Answer

Hi, Jensen,
GO. Just go. The world is too complex to have a decent job with just HS. Further, the college experience is invaluable, not just for a career, but in helping you mature fully as an adult. Your HS guidance counselor can advise on basic courses to start. And while there, you will have time to explore areas that interest you. Some people do return to college years after HS, but those are years lost from a career perspective. Further, if you, at a later date, decide you want to specialize in an advanced degree, you will already have completed that initial degree. I will also comment here that the particular college is not as important as the act of going. Many successful people started at community colleges or state or city colleges and did well. Just do it. You will never regret it.
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David’s Answer

Hi,
I will say that the answer to your question depends on a couple of things. If you are unsure about what you want to do with your future career-wise then maybe you should hold off until you are sure. College will always be readily available for you. I had friends who waited a year or two before deciding to go and they were very successful. If you aren't sure I would advise maybe going to a community college and taking one or two basic classes that are required for any degree and see how it goes. Once you figure out a path for your future the answer will be pretty clear on whether you should go or not. Not all careers require college also so that is something to consider as well.

All the Best!
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Jim’s Answer

Hi, Jensen! I'm going to try and answer with a different spin from the previous responses posted here. Just from reading, it seems that all you're asking is if not going to college right after high school will impact you later in the future with finding a job. The answer from my perspective as a former hiring manager is no, it should not IF you have a solid and reasonable explanation to give for the so-called gap. An example of what I mean is, if I say I took a year or two off to "find myself" before starting a college education for a career that requires one, I will have to work harder to give a positive impression. On the other hand, if I say I waited because I explored working at ABC or was involved in XYZ program, or even that I worked to save money for college, and so on, that becomes part of my narrative of my experience, qualifications and goal-setting/organizational abilities. In the end, it depends on the reasons why you would delay going to college, how you can effectively communicate those reasons and what your career aspirations are. Ohers here have spoken more to these things and you should consider what they have shared. As for me, I've kept within the confines of your question and hope you can find some value in my perspective on the impact of delaying college. Best of luck to you!
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Robert’s Answer

College isn't required for a good job, but I do suggest more than just a high school diploma. Consider trade school and apprentice paths. If you don't know what you want to do but like to think, college is a good choice. If you prefer to work with your hands, consider an apprenticeship in a hot trade (welding, wind turbines, steamfitting, in my area). There are high-paying jobs that don't require any further schooling (in my area, garbage collection, plow driving, sewer clearing) but they usually have a catch (not enough people want to go into them, for an obvious reason like inflexible hours, no chance of remote work, etc.). People now change careers over their lifetime, but the easiest time to learn and explore possibilities is when you are young and relatively free of obligations.
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Chirayu’s Answer

Whether or not to attend college after high school is a personal decision that depends on a variety of factors, such as your interests, career goals, financial situation, and personal circumstances. Here are some things to consider: If your desired career path requires a college degree, then attending college may be necessary. Consider your skills, interests, and values. If you are passionate about a particular field or subject, then pursuing a college degree in that area may be a good idea. College can be expensive, so it's important to consider your financial situation and explore options such as scholarships, grants, and student loans. Consider alternative options to college such as vocational training, apprenticeships, or starting a business. Your personal circumstances such as family obligations or health issues may also impact your decision to attend college. In general, having a college degree can increase your earning potential and provide you with a wider range of career opportunities. However, it's important to make an informed decision that takes into account your individual circumstances and goals.
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josh’s Answer

I think you need to do a deep dive into what you really want your life to be. Do you want to work after you graduate or do you want to experience college and be able to get a white collar job. There are plenty of jobs either way and finances to think about
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Vamshee’s Answer

For anyone with specific goals that require a college degree, one who enjoys studying, or one who isn't prepared to enter the workforce, college is a great addition after high school. And with a growing variety of educational options, college is more accessible now than it ever. If one gets good GPA with PSAT/SAT scores, one can get an admission easily with some fee waiver. Going to college also costs money, so one should be ready to pay for tuition and expenses through parents, taking some summer jobs and save money for college or take some loans and combination of all.

The main reason going to college after school is the material/knowledge build upon their high school is still fresh in their minds. A College degree shows a student's commitment to study, personal growth and specialized knowledge. It makes them a more appealing job candidate than those who just have a high school diploma.

If you can't afford or professional career path is not your interest, Alternative paths are going to trade or vocational school - often associated with community colleges. Can provide a more affordable and less time-consuming path to decent paying careers.

To become successful and make good money in career, more than a degree or education one should work hard, put his time in the job/work. Acquire experience and skills in life as you grow.... Education with Hardwork can go long way...can bring more money and grow in the career ladder. College degree can bring good paying job to begin with, without hard work you cannot grow in any career. Also there are lot of people with high school, or 2-year degree became successful with their passion and dedication to excel in the career path they have chosen.

Hope this helps!!
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Christina’s Answer

You have many options. You can go to a trade school and get a license in a particular craft. Once you complete your license you can can specialize in your craft and get paid well. There is also the military and going to a community college first to see how you feel and spend less money then going straight into a 4 year college which is much more expensive. I am not saying do not go to college but definitely look at all your options.
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Dillon’s Answer

Hi,
If you are unsure about jumping into a traditional 4-year college immediately following high school, one potential option could be to take up a few classes at local community college. This option can be beneficial for a variety of reasons. I would recommend taking a few "core" classes in a variety of different fields to really get a feel for the subject matter. Examples are accounting, physics, marketing, calculus, English, etc. A major benefit of doing this is in the event you do ever decide to pursue a traditional 4-year college, these credits will likely transfer over saving you time and money.

Best Wishes!
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