32 answers
Alexandria
Student
1
Question
Updated
1473 views
Does it matter if I go to college or not?
Does it matter if I go to college or not?
32 answers
Tony Rosselli
Sales
9
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Tony’s Answer
My guess is you are somewhere between the age of 14 and 21. So I will provide an answer based on this assumption. Statically, having a college degree will allow you to earn at least $1M more in your lifetime than someone who does not attend. However, that is a statistic. and we all know how we feel about statistics.
#1 You don't have to have it 'all figured out' just yet. You're young, and you have at least 40 years of work ahead of you. You don't have to pick a career that you will work until you retire.
#2 College is needed for some professions (lawyer, doctor, accountant), but not all. Consider the Trades (electrician, carpenter, auto mechanic) which requires you to attend trade school, which is different than college. Trades make very good money today - auto mechanics out of school start at $100K+ as their first job.
Ask yourself what drives you? What gets you excited? and take those thoughts and feelings and see if your can be successful with or without college. Have this drive your answer of whether college is needed for what your passionate about.
#1 You don't have to have it 'all figured out' just yet. You're young, and you have at least 40 years of work ahead of you. You don't have to pick a career that you will work until you retire.
#2 College is needed for some professions (lawyer, doctor, accountant), but not all. Consider the Trades (electrician, carpenter, auto mechanic) which requires you to attend trade school, which is different than college. Trades make very good money today - auto mechanics out of school start at $100K+ as their first job.
Ask yourself what drives you? What gets you excited? and take those thoughts and feelings and see if your can be successful with or without college. Have this drive your answer of whether college is needed for what your passionate about.
Rachel Knapp
Project Manager
23
Answers
Durham, North Carolina
Updated
Rachel’s Answer
That all depends on what you want to do in the future. A lot of things can be learned from experience but then a lot of really technical knowledge is better gleamed in the classroom (if that's how you best learn). College is definitely NOT the only path for people. So often we overlook careers in fields such as electricians, ac repair, and other such things. These jobs can be very rewarding if you find it is something you enjoy doing and get fulfillment out of it. There are more paths beyond high school to consider too, like the military. Determining what's next can be really daunting, but I think it helps to think that there are so many jobs out there and many paths to take to get there. So think about what you want for your future and do some research on how to get there. And don't be afraid to try and fail. It's better to have tried it out than think what if? Good luck!
I would agree. I recently encouraged my son to attend community college to explore the courses and participate in the college experience. It was a great way to explore topics in different fields without a big commitment. He didn't like all of them, but some of them made him consider what he liked. It was a great way to think about whether he really wanted to do.
Elizabeth (Betsy) Kvedar, CPTD®
Lindsey Jaeggi
Senior Recruiting Operations Analyst
5
Answers
DeForest, Wisconsin
Updated
Lindsey’s Answer
Hi there! As a recruiter, it can really depend on the job you are interested in, the company you are applying for, etc. Trade schools can be incredibly valuable and are in very high demand currently. It may also be worthwhile to start out at a tech/trade school for two years and then transfer to a college.
Personally, I found college to be extremely rewarding and helped me find a niche career that combines data and recruiting. However, I know others who went to a trade school/started a job right out of college and love their jobs and have successful careers.
Long story short, it comes down to what field you are interested in!
Personally, I found college to be extremely rewarding and helped me find a niche career that combines data and recruiting. However, I know others who went to a trade school/started a job right out of college and love their jobs and have successful careers.
Long story short, it comes down to what field you are interested in!
Jake Schachter
7
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Jake’s Answer
Attending college offers an amazing opportunity to grow as an independent individual and boost your social abilities. Plus, numerous professions necessitate having a college degree, and college can equip you with specialized expertise for future use. On the other hand, many industries only call for trade school education. Ultimately, there's no definitive right or wrong choice. It all comes down to your desired career path and the income you wish to make.
Jordyn Johnstone
IT Auditor
2
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
Jordyn’s Answer
The answer to does college matter honestly depends on your future goals and aspirations in life.
In short - it only matters if it matters to YOU! College is not necessary to succeed in life, but it is necessary to obtain certain careers and certifications. You cannot become a doctor, a lawyer, or even an accountant without attending college. However, there are plenty of companies that provide you on the job training and have ways for you to move up internally in the company. There are many skills in life in which a formal college education is not necessary, but it will certainly help.
I think when you start to think about does it matter, and is it worth it, you have to first determine why would you be going to college anyways. Is it because it seems that's what everyone does? or is it because you have a specific profession in mind that you would like to obtain one day? Either way, the cost of college continues to increase, and there are many options from public to private, state school to community college, the list is endless. Each college offers different degrees, experiences, pricing, and opportunities.
I personally very much benefitted from attending college. I decided I wanted to enter to world of accounting after taking an introduction to accounting course in high school. Not only did I end up loving it, but I realized I was really good at it. I did my research and knew one day I wanted to become a licenses certified public accountant (CPA), and in order to do so, I needed to have 150 college credit hours, so college did matter a lot if I wanted to truly pursue this career. I also knew I wanted certain experiences in college outside of just my degree - I wanted to continue my athletic career and I wanted social and networking opportunities. I also knew I didn't want to be too far from home. I did my research, applied to a few schools, and ultimately decided on a private D2 university close to home. I was able to not only continue my athletic career, but I became a two time national champion, had the opportunity to found a sorority, and obtained not only a degree in accounting, but a second degree in Spanish, as well as a minor in Fashion Design.
So, to me personally, yes college was worth it. BUT, college was only worth it because I myself made it worth it. You can find ways to make life worth it without going to college, just as someone could attend college without getting the end results they are looking for and therefore may think it wasn't worth it.
College is just like life, you get out of it what you put into it. So, if you make college worth it, it will end up worth it for you, but if you find value in other things, college is not the end all be all, and you certainly do not have to go to form your own path in life!
In short - it only matters if it matters to YOU! College is not necessary to succeed in life, but it is necessary to obtain certain careers and certifications. You cannot become a doctor, a lawyer, or even an accountant without attending college. However, there are plenty of companies that provide you on the job training and have ways for you to move up internally in the company. There are many skills in life in which a formal college education is not necessary, but it will certainly help.
I think when you start to think about does it matter, and is it worth it, you have to first determine why would you be going to college anyways. Is it because it seems that's what everyone does? or is it because you have a specific profession in mind that you would like to obtain one day? Either way, the cost of college continues to increase, and there are many options from public to private, state school to community college, the list is endless. Each college offers different degrees, experiences, pricing, and opportunities.
I personally very much benefitted from attending college. I decided I wanted to enter to world of accounting after taking an introduction to accounting course in high school. Not only did I end up loving it, but I realized I was really good at it. I did my research and knew one day I wanted to become a licenses certified public accountant (CPA), and in order to do so, I needed to have 150 college credit hours, so college did matter a lot if I wanted to truly pursue this career. I also knew I wanted certain experiences in college outside of just my degree - I wanted to continue my athletic career and I wanted social and networking opportunities. I also knew I didn't want to be too far from home. I did my research, applied to a few schools, and ultimately decided on a private D2 university close to home. I was able to not only continue my athletic career, but I became a two time national champion, had the opportunity to found a sorority, and obtained not only a degree in accounting, but a second degree in Spanish, as well as a minor in Fashion Design.
So, to me personally, yes college was worth it. BUT, college was only worth it because I myself made it worth it. You can find ways to make life worth it without going to college, just as someone could attend college without getting the end results they are looking for and therefore may think it wasn't worth it.
College is just like life, you get out of it what you put into it. So, if you make college worth it, it will end up worth it for you, but if you find value in other things, college is not the end all be all, and you certainly do not have to go to form your own path in life!
Lesly Beltran
EMT and Medical Assistant
102
Answers
West Palm Beach, Florida
Updated
Lesly’s Answer
Hello! You certainly don't have to attend college to achieve a high income. Numerous successful individuals never went to college, and there are many well-paying sectors that gladly accept those without a college degree. Take tech start-ups, for instance, where your abilities and potential might be more appealing than having a diploma.
Marlene H
Consultant
3
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Marlene’s Answer
College plays a significant role based on your desired career path. For those pursuing traditional routes, it is strongly advised. To advance to managerial or higher-level roles, obtaining a degree is essential.
Elvis Williams
Learning Business partner, Instructional Designer
5
Answers
Alexandria, Virginia
Updated
Elvis’s Answer
Yes and No.
TLDR: Does it matter? To me yes. the experience was invaluable, I had fun and played it safe. I also did a lot of research on what I wanted to do, i failed many times but never gave up. I worked as an Resident assistanct, a tech support and evening event staff on campus.
The relationships I built and friends I made has forever changed how I do things.
But the experience varies from person to person, and ultimately you have to make the right decision for you based on circumstances and willingness.
Always protect yourself and your best interests.
long answer:
It really depends on what you want to do, what you are willing to do to get there, and what your support looks like.
For some, taking on a lot of debt is not an option, so maybe postponing and relying on your circle (family etc) is the best option.
For others, it's the only way to move forward in their lives, or its the path forward that they have identified as the right one for themselves.
The answer is yes if, there is a field of study you are interested in exploring in great detail and have researched possible careers post-graduation. This does not stop with a quick google search, actually find individuals on linkedin with the career you want and look at their profile to see what they did to get there. Think 5 years ahead, make a high-level plan on your goals and take steps to get there.
the answer is no, if you can start an apprenticeship in a career, you really want or have investments that can get you places. For many, there is a family business that interest them, for others they can start a trade career or technical career through networking with individuals they know.
At the end of the day, college does not guarantee anything, you have to do the research and define for yourself why it matters for you and what you can do with it..
and finally, it is daunting.... but it is rewarding if you play your cards right.
research community schools
research careers
TLDR: Does it matter? To me yes. the experience was invaluable, I had fun and played it safe. I also did a lot of research on what I wanted to do, i failed many times but never gave up. I worked as an Resident assistanct, a tech support and evening event staff on campus.
The relationships I built and friends I made has forever changed how I do things.
But the experience varies from person to person, and ultimately you have to make the right decision for you based on circumstances and willingness.
Always protect yourself and your best interests.
long answer:
It really depends on what you want to do, what you are willing to do to get there, and what your support looks like.
For some, taking on a lot of debt is not an option, so maybe postponing and relying on your circle (family etc) is the best option.
For others, it's the only way to move forward in their lives, or its the path forward that they have identified as the right one for themselves.
The answer is yes if, there is a field of study you are interested in exploring in great detail and have researched possible careers post-graduation. This does not stop with a quick google search, actually find individuals on linkedin with the career you want and look at their profile to see what they did to get there. Think 5 years ahead, make a high-level plan on your goals and take steps to get there.
the answer is no, if you can start an apprenticeship in a career, you really want or have investments that can get you places. For many, there is a family business that interest them, for others they can start a trade career or technical career through networking with individuals they know.
At the end of the day, college does not guarantee anything, you have to do the research and define for yourself why it matters for you and what you can do with it..
and finally, it is daunting.... but it is rewarding if you play your cards right.
Elvis recommends the following next steps:
Poly Chuong
Risk Assurance
1
Answer
Long Beach, California
Updated
Poly’s Answer
Choosing a career path depends on your goals. Remember, a job after graduation isn't guaranteed. If your major isn't technical or in demand, finding a good-paying job might be tough. Some high-paying technical jobs don't need college, but instead, hands-on experience through apprenticeships. But for careers like accounting, college is essential to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) since it needs college credits in various subjects.
There are also careers where talent matters more than education. This doesn't just mean acting, singing, or entertainment. With dedication, you can teach yourself skills like coding, cybersecurity, app development, video editing, and Photoshop.
In short, go to college if your chosen career path needs it.
There are also careers where talent matters more than education. This doesn't just mean acting, singing, or entertainment. With dedication, you can teach yourself skills like coding, cybersecurity, app development, video editing, and Photoshop.
In short, go to college if your chosen career path needs it.
Jordan Marshall
Tax Accountant
4
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Jordan’s Answer
I agree with other posters comments, it truly depends on where you see yourself in a given career. Some jobs require the education, however some rely more on hands-on experience. I recommend taking a career aptitude test and see where you lay. If you're tending to get career answers with more college education, that's your answer.
Also, I want to mention, you don't have to choose now. It's okay to take a few years off to figure it out. Take a few different jobs and note what you like/dislike in each position and industry and drill down to your preferred job.
Also, I want to mention, you don't have to choose now. It's okay to take a few years off to figure it out. Take a few different jobs and note what you like/dislike in each position and industry and drill down to your preferred job.
Robert Blackmon
Tax Accountant
2
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
Robert’s Answer
The importance of college depends on a combination of several factors, that include financial ability, personal goals, and career goals. There are many careers that require some level of advanced education, and if you dream is to be a part of any of these professions then college is absolutely necessary. Outside of college being required for a specific occupation college can also provide social and intellectual expansion for those who may just want to broaden their personal knowledge base. On the other hand, there are many occupations that only require a high school diploma, and many of these jobs offer great advancement opportunities purely based off of job performance. As a final conclusion college is not always mandatory and attendance should be strategically aligned with your individual life goals.
Oscar Trejo
Accountant
7
Answers
Idaho Falls, Idaho
Updated
Oscar’s Answer
It varies. Should you aspire to be a doctor or lawyer, attending college is essential. Nevertheless, college isn't the right choice for everyone, so don't stress about going if it doesn't suit you. Begin by determining your desired career path, and then assess whether it's possible to achieve it without a college education.
Sheryl Muralidhar
Agile Coach
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Sheryl’s Answer
A college education is highly suggested and offers many benefits. It helps you sharpen your abilities, learn new skills, and typically supports a steady flow of money in a field that needs training and expertise. However, there are also plenty of other paths people choose that don't require formal education. To make the best decision, think about your dreams and career goals.
Ted Chang
Consultant
2
Answers
Irvine, California
Updated
Ted’s Answer
It depends on what you want to do in the future. I always encourage my kids to find their own way, know their passions, and how they can live comfortably. I encourage entrepreneurship. And always have a side hustle.
Talk to someone today that you want to be like in the future
Ted recommends the following next steps:
David Beaumont
Technical Support
29
Answers
Westerville, Ohio
Updated
David’s Answer
Hello there,
College is an excellent opportunity to gain more knowledge, but it might not be the perfect choice for everyone (and that's completely fine). Spend some time thinking about what you truly want to do and what brings you happiness. Discover your passions and then look for resources that match your interests. Remember, college is only one way to reach your dream career. I hope this advice is useful! Wishing you lots of success.
College is an excellent opportunity to gain more knowledge, but it might not be the perfect choice for everyone (and that's completely fine). Spend some time thinking about what you truly want to do and what brings you happiness. Discover your passions and then look for resources that match your interests. Remember, college is only one way to reach your dream career. I hope this advice is useful! Wishing you lots of success.
absolutely, without a college degree, your career choice can be very limited.
Jenny Zhang
Rosa Alaia
Storage Sales
7
Answers
Dallas, Georgia
Updated
Rosa’s Answer
Education holds great significance, but not every profession necessitates attending college. Keep in mind that college may not be the ideal path for everyone. It's beneficial to take some time to explore various career options and determine what truly interests you. You might discover that your preferred line of work doesn't require a college degree. Consider pursuing online courses and obtaining certifications as an alternative way to enhance your skills.
Kuldeep Joshi
Engineer
2
Answers
Roseville, California
Updated
Kuldeep’s Answer
Absolutely, a top-notch school will aid you in honing your social, conversational, and teamwork abilities.
Victoria Baptiste
Senior Strategy Consultant
2
Answers
Arlington, Virginia
Updated
Victoria’s Answer
Deciding to go to college is a major choice with long-lasting effects. There's no universal answer to whether college is worth it, but here are some general tips to help you decide:
1. Identify your career goals: Consider the career(s) you truly want to follow. Do you aim for fields like teaching, law, or medicine? These careers might not only need college education but also specific certifications and degrees. For some jobs, college is essential to gain all the necessary knowledge.
2. Learn about industry requirements: Once you know your desired career(s), research the industries and companies that interest you. This gives you a better understanding of the requirements for the positions you want. Many will need a degree, but some won't.
3. Explore non-college options: Remember, college isn't the only way to gain valuable skills for various industries. There are many ways to learn, such as apprenticeships, vocational training, internships, or even informal methods like online courses or self-study.
1. Identify your career goals: Consider the career(s) you truly want to follow. Do you aim for fields like teaching, law, or medicine? These careers might not only need college education but also specific certifications and degrees. For some jobs, college is essential to gain all the necessary knowledge.
2. Learn about industry requirements: Once you know your desired career(s), research the industries and companies that interest you. This gives you a better understanding of the requirements for the positions you want. Many will need a degree, but some won't.
3. Explore non-college options: Remember, college isn't the only way to gain valuable skills for various industries. There are many ways to learn, such as apprenticeships, vocational training, internships, or even informal methods like online courses or self-study.
I would agree with Victoria. School can be very beneficial but depending on what you want to do long term, it might not financially make sense. Also, think about your learning style too and how you best like to be taught. Some people thrive in a school environment while others might need more hands-on training that college might not provide.
Juli Garn
Becky Haluska
Content Developer
57
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Becky’s Answer
Depending on your desired career path, you might need to join an 18-month program, earn a 2, 4, or even longer college degree, or finish an apprenticeship. Sometimes, the competition for jobs in your chosen field can also influence this decision. No matter which career you pick, always remember that being a lifelong learner is essential for success in any profession.
Sam Goedeker
Accountant
1
Answer
St. Louis, MO
Updated
Sam’s Answer
The reason college really matters is that it gets you in the door for job interviews. Most of what you do in a particular job will be learned while working. Find a major you like and put in the work to get you in the door for job interviews that you want.
Bhumika Bhardwaj
Application Developer
6
Answers
India
Updated
Bhumika’s Answer
Definitely, it's important.
School offers a supportive environment for learning, personal growth, and building a successful career. You can also network and form relationships with others who can assist you in progressing professionally. Schools supply endless resources and guidance for your benefit.
School offers a supportive environment for learning, personal growth, and building a successful career. You can also network and form relationships with others who can assist you in progressing professionally. Schools supply endless resources and guidance for your benefit.
Isaac Hyman
Database Implementations & Support
5
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Isaac’s Answer
Agree with a lot of the answers here - focus on figuring out what you want to do as a career first and let that guide you. Whether or not you go to college really depends on the profession you are passionate about. Either way, be ready to continue learning and growing within your field even after you are established. Among other things, college is about learning about the things that interest you and discovering new interests...and learning is a never-ending process!
Deborah Christopher-Adeniji
Researcher
73
Answers
Nigeria
Updated
Deborah’s Answer
Yes, it matters depending on your career goals, desired skills, and personal aspirations.
Helena Boghdesarian
Accounting
1
Answer
Glendale, California
Updated
Helena’s Answer
Graduating with a college degree typically leads to more job security, which means you're less likely to face unemployment.
Dayana Abushinova
Tax Staff
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Dayana’s Answer
Hi Alexandria, I would say yes. But the decision to attend college/university is personal and depends on various factors. I think college will help you to grow and it helps you to sharpen your abilities.
Tenia Green, MS
Martech Manager
6
Answers
Fremont, California
Updated
Tenia’s Answer
The decision to attend college is personal and depends on various factors. Consider your career goals, personal interests, desired skills and knowledge, networking opportunities, alternative paths, and financial considerations. Reflect on what aligns best with your long-term plans and seek guidance from mentors and career counselors.
Kyle McGuire
Public Relations
4
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Kyle’s Answer
Maybe -- but maybe not. It all depends on what kind of a career you want.
Some people don't know what kind of a career they want and choose to go to college to explore different disciplines. If you already know what you would like to pursue as a career, I would suggest you find out how you go about achieving in that field.
As a college graduate, I was taught the writing and communications skills that help me in my public relations career -- but, I sure can't rewire a house or fix a broken sink. Tradespeople learn how to do those things through apprenticeships and the world will also need electricians and plumbers.
Just like when a coach tells you to go where the ball/puck will be, think about where you want to end up and then chart your course.
Good luck!
Some people don't know what kind of a career they want and choose to go to college to explore different disciplines. If you already know what you would like to pursue as a career, I would suggest you find out how you go about achieving in that field.
As a college graduate, I was taught the writing and communications skills that help me in my public relations career -- but, I sure can't rewire a house or fix a broken sink. Tradespeople learn how to do those things through apprenticeships and the world will also need electricians and plumbers.
Just like when a coach tells you to go where the ball/puck will be, think about where you want to end up and then chart your course.
Good luck!
Bea Elbert
Sales Executive
5
Answers
Peoria, Illinois
Updated
Bea’s Answer
Hello Alexandria! College allows you to strengthen your abilities in a particular field or major while also broadening your range of skills by exploring classes and subjects beyond your main focus. In this sense, obtaining a college degree serves as a crucial milestone in your overall career advancement.
However, if you have a specific career path or interest in mind, there are several practical alternatives to college, such as technical schools, trade/craft schools, online education, and certification programs. Nowadays, employers' perspectives are shifting when it comes to the necessity of a college degree.
If you have several targeted career interest areas, do a little research to see how others in that field were able to enter that field either through experience, college degreee or other technical certifications
However, if you have a specific career path or interest in mind, there are several practical alternatives to college, such as technical schools, trade/craft schools, online education, and certification programs. Nowadays, employers' perspectives are shifting when it comes to the necessity of a college degree.
Bea recommends the following next steps:
Gaurav Jain
Tax Accountant
1
Answer
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Gaurav’s Answer
Does it matter? I would say YES as this will be a first formal step taking towards the goal you are envisioning which can be viewed by other and quantifiable.
Lauren Eidson, CIA
Risk and Assurance Manager
3
Answers
Portland, Maine
Updated
Lauren’s Answer
Really depends on what you want to do. There are some careers that don’t require a college degree. Others necessitate certain degrees/certifications, etc. If you are currently unsure as to what you might want to pursue as a career, college is a great place to explore different areas of study, connect with different professionals/professors that can provide guidance, and attend different events, etc that can help you determine what path you might want to pursue.
Judy Winston
Risk Assurance
5
Answers
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Updated
Judy’s Answer
Depends on who you ask. There's more to college than an education. In my opinion, you create and build brother/sisterhood that is invaluable. This is also a starting point in connecting yourself to a network of likeminded individuals that will become beneficial in your career.
Caleb Pan
Data Scientist
1
Answer
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Caleb’s Answer
Your future goals will guide you in choosing the right path. Some careers can be best pursued through trade schools, vocational schools, and the like. Apprenticeships are also a popular option in many fields. Make sure to research the careers that interest you and find out the usual education requirements. Remember, college is a significant investment of time and money, so it's essential to determine if it's worth it (think about the return on investment for a degree). Keep exploring your options, and you'll find the best path for your future success!
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