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Is going to college worth it when I can’t start my career right out of high school?
How would I go about this situation? I want to be a real estate agent. I can start when I am 18 and get my license and a mentor. College isn’t required but I feel like I should go. BUT I don’t want to be in debt… Is going to college worth it when I can start my career right out of high school?
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9 answers
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Noah’s Answer
It sounds like you're still in highschool. If that's the case, I encourage you to look into early college highschool programs that let you take a certain number of college credits for free whilst you're still in HS. You're absolutely right that being a real estate agent doesn't require a college degree but depending on the state, there still might be courses you have to take to meet the licensure requirements. Also taking a few courses in business, investing or finance wouldn't be a bad idea either, especially if you can take them for free via the program I mentioned above. Even if your state doesn't have a program like that, if you aren't too financially strained, you could explore taking community college courses in areas that interest you/relate to the area of real estate you want to specialize in.
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Kyle’s Answer
As someone who has a four year degree, I think that a four year degree is a waste of money. Mostly college in the 70's was about proving that you could accept a challenge and finish a degree when it was your choice to seek higher education. Most of what I learned from being a retail buyer for 20yrs I learned on the job. What you can learn is how to be proficient at the tools you'll be using in an office situation: Microsoft Excel, Word, etc. It's simple to find training for these types of programs and you can be up and running in weeks. If you are properly motivated and committed to being a realtor, you will find that you already possess the tools you need to be successful. Outwork everyone else in the office and you will rise to the top.
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Daniel’s Answer
Hi Maya!
I would seriously consider going to a community college. Not only does this save you money but gives you more time to think about where you want to end up. Also, basics are basics and it does not make sense to pay for those type of classes at a university. My first year and a half I took basics at a community college and lived at home to save up money. I was also able to work a part time job and this gave me time to discover that I love business (specially operations) If I had not been given that time to think/keep looking I think I may have gone down the wrong career path.
I would seriously consider going to a community college. Not only does this save you money but gives you more time to think about where you want to end up. Also, basics are basics and it does not make sense to pay for those type of classes at a university. My first year and a half I took basics at a community college and lived at home to save up money. I was also able to work a part time job and this gave me time to discover that I love business (specially operations) If I had not been given that time to think/keep looking I think I may have gone down the wrong career path.
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Tiarra’s Answer
Hi Maya, your concerns are very legitimate as the United States is broiling with a student loan debt crisis. Look into your eligibility for state and Federal scholarships through the FAFSA. For affordability, look into community colleges and/or local colleges. Have you considered an internship? Some realtors will allow high school students to be interns and this can often lead to a career with the company or another company because you can put in time and add that to your resume. The internship can help you establish connections and maybe help you earn grants for college and since you would have established a relationship with the company maybe they would work with you as you attend college or as you said you could attend college later after saving some money. But maybe taking advantage of available scholarships and internships right now could work. Here is an article about high school internships with realtors: https://www.mainebiz.biz/article/real-estate-internships-connect-high-school-students-to-career-options
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david’s Answer
My guess is that you will always wonder if selling real estate right from HS was a good idea. My suggestion is to try it. Start right after graduation and give yourself the remainder of the calendar year to assess performance. After a year, see how you are doing and whether you should either return to college or identify some career-specific courses to help your career. The risk is that you are betting your future on one career choice, a career that fluctuates with the economy. I do wish you well, as many people do well in sales.
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Deidre’s Answer
Going straight to college after high school can be a great decision! College is like a discovery journey where you get to explore more about yourself and your passions. It's also a golden opportunity to experience independence, stepping out of your comfort zone that you've known for the past 18 years. What's more, college is the perfect place to build friendships that will last a lifetime!
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Laura’s Answer
Hello Maya!
I always encourage folks to view each investment, whether it's in time or money, as a reward rather than a burden. Everything you engage in offers you valuable lessons and enriches your professional experience. Looking ahead, securing a bachelor's degree will continually unlock opportunities for you, especially if you're aiming to broaden your career options. Remember, every step you take is a victory!
I always encourage folks to view each investment, whether it's in time or money, as a reward rather than a burden. Everything you engage in offers you valuable lessons and enriches your professional experience. Looking ahead, securing a bachelor's degree will continually unlock opportunities for you, especially if you're aiming to broaden your career options. Remember, every step you take is a victory!
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Doctorate Student’s Answer
Taking a firm step towards determining your area(s) of interest is a commendable move! Immerse yourself in what you love, and everything else will seamlessly align. To optimize your resources, consider initiating your academic voyage with General Education classes at a Community College. These classes typically come at no cost, presenting a fantastic chance for you to explore subjects that truly spark your interest. Keep in mind, college or career counselors are always ready to back you up. Their guidance could be the key to unlocking your hidden potential. So, here's to your radiant and prosperous future! May your thrilling journey overflow with limitless success and happiness!
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shobana’s Answer
yes as you know every one can work after 18 yrs . you feel that is waste of time to go to college and spend so much of money . at some point of time in your own career if you reach one of the top positions at work without a degree but at the same time after sometime you loose your job . you are filling up your job application or updating your resume you wrote just high school pass and you saw a job with the same position you were in which says needs a college degree and experience . just because you did not have a degree you were rejected . education is a must. there are so many ways while earning also you can take online classes at your own space . you can earn and study at the same time . you should not regrect in the near future that you did not go to college. start a career with part time job and online classes. my opinion as an educator