10 answers
Kayla
Student
Bluffton, Indiana
1
Question
Asked
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how do i know college is right for me?
is college worth the money
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10 answers
Ken Walsh
Project Manager
35
Answers
Updated
Ken’s Answer
Hi Kayla,
This is a great question. Roel makes a great point above. Consider your future goals. Do they require a college degree? Try to start with what are you passionate about and what are you good at. If those things line up, that is great. See if you need a degree to work in that field. If it is something where you do physical labor and use your hands to build / fix things such as construction, plumber, etc, then you may not need college. If the answer is not this, then I recommend going to college. Knowledge is power. The more you know, the more options you have.
Best of luck.
Ken
This is a great question. Roel makes a great point above. Consider your future goals. Do they require a college degree? Try to start with what are you passionate about and what are you good at. If those things line up, that is great. See if you need a degree to work in that field. If it is something where you do physical labor and use your hands to build / fix things such as construction, plumber, etc, then you may not need college. If the answer is not this, then I recommend going to college. Knowledge is power. The more you know, the more options you have.
Best of luck.
Ken
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer
745
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
It definitely can be. Over the life of an individual, the person who has the college degree will make a better living and have a higher quality of life, over those who do not have degrees.
Plus, those who have a degree have better opportunities over those who lack degrees. In otherwards they are more upwardly mobile, have better jobs, and a higher standard of living.
Plus, those who have a degree have better opportunities over those who lack degrees. In otherwards they are more upwardly mobile, have better jobs, and a higher standard of living.
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
521
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Deciding whether college is the right path for you and whether it's worth the investment is a crucial decision that depends on your individual goals, circumstances, and aspirations. Here are some factors to consider when making this decision:
**1. Career Goals:** Evaluate your career aspirations. Some professions, like medicine or law, require specific degrees. In contrast, others may not necessitate a college degree, and practical experience or vocational training might be more valuable.
**2. Passion and Interests:** Consider your interests and passions. If you have a strong passion for a subject or field that can be pursued through higher education, it may be worth it to pursue a college degree in that area.
**3. Job Market:** Research the job market in your chosen field. Are there opportunities and demand for graduates in that field? Investigate the earning potential and job stability associated with your intended career.
**4. Alternative Paths:** Explore alternative paths to your career goals. Apprenticeships, vocational programs, online courses, and self-study are becoming increasingly viable options for skill development and career advancement.
**5. Financial Situation:** Evaluate your financial situation and the cost of college. Consider scholarships, grants, and financial aid options. Calculate the potential student loan debt and whether it's manageable based on your expected income.
**6. Long-Term Goals:** Think about your long-term goals beyond your first job. College can provide a broader education and skills that may open doors to different career opportunities down the road.
**7. Networking and Experiences:** College offers valuable networking opportunities, access to mentors, and extracurricular experiences that can contribute to personal growth and career development.
**8. Personal Growth:** College can be a time for personal growth and development, offering exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences. Consider how valuable this aspect is to you.
**9. Research and Talk to Graduates:** Talk to individuals who have pursued the same or similar degrees or careers. Their experiences and insights can provide valuable guidance.
**10. Gap Year or Postponing College:** If you're unsure about college, consider taking a gap year or working for a while to gain clarity about your goals and whether college aligns with them.
Ultimately, the decision should be based on your unique circumstances and goals. It's essential to weigh the potential benefits and costs carefully. College can be a valuable investment in your future, but it's not the only path to success. What's most important is to make an informed decision that aligns with your aspirations and values.
**1. Career Goals:** Evaluate your career aspirations. Some professions, like medicine or law, require specific degrees. In contrast, others may not necessitate a college degree, and practical experience or vocational training might be more valuable.
**2. Passion and Interests:** Consider your interests and passions. If you have a strong passion for a subject or field that can be pursued through higher education, it may be worth it to pursue a college degree in that area.
**3. Job Market:** Research the job market in your chosen field. Are there opportunities and demand for graduates in that field? Investigate the earning potential and job stability associated with your intended career.
**4. Alternative Paths:** Explore alternative paths to your career goals. Apprenticeships, vocational programs, online courses, and self-study are becoming increasingly viable options for skill development and career advancement.
**5. Financial Situation:** Evaluate your financial situation and the cost of college. Consider scholarships, grants, and financial aid options. Calculate the potential student loan debt and whether it's manageable based on your expected income.
**6. Long-Term Goals:** Think about your long-term goals beyond your first job. College can provide a broader education and skills that may open doors to different career opportunities down the road.
**7. Networking and Experiences:** College offers valuable networking opportunities, access to mentors, and extracurricular experiences that can contribute to personal growth and career development.
**8. Personal Growth:** College can be a time for personal growth and development, offering exposure to diverse perspectives and experiences. Consider how valuable this aspect is to you.
**9. Research and Talk to Graduates:** Talk to individuals who have pursued the same or similar degrees or careers. Their experiences and insights can provide valuable guidance.
**10. Gap Year or Postponing College:** If you're unsure about college, consider taking a gap year or working for a while to gain clarity about your goals and whether college aligns with them.
Ultimately, the decision should be based on your unique circumstances and goals. It's essential to weigh the potential benefits and costs carefully. College can be a valuable investment in your future, but it's not the only path to success. What's most important is to make an informed decision that aligns with your aspirations and values.
Alan Weber
writer and retired teacher, teacher educator and academic advisor
207
Answers
Woodstock, New York
Updated
Alan’s Answer
Hi, Kayla. From a purely monetary perspective, college is "worth it." College graduates statistically earn almost twice what non-college graduates do. But it's much more than that. College gives students the opportunity to explore your interests and potentials. It can help them learn to think, to research and to relate with people from diverse backgrounds. Don't sell yourself short by falling into a job just because it might be easier or pay more immediately. There's a world out there and inside you to explore.
Michael Leibrandt, CCNA, CNS-D, VSE, CDCA
IT Project Manager, Supervisor of Audio/Visual Services, Information Technology Engineer II
13
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Kayla. Thanks for the great question. It is actually two different questions. College is absolutely still worth it in 2023. A college degree is still the most reliable way to a good paying job in our society. But that doesnt mean it is or isn't right for you. That conversation will depend on how much you enjoy school and courses and what your career goals are. Good luck!
Dino Ubalde
Educator/Psychologist/Life Coach
204
Answers
Tracy, California
Updated
Dino’s Answer
Hello Kayla, how are you doing? I appreciate you getting in touch with us. That's an excellent question you've asked. It takes me back to the numerous times my students have questioned the necessity of completing their college education. I always encourage them to persevere and complete their degree, no matter the obstacles they face. It's akin to going into battle - you need to be equipped and prepared to face your adversaries to make it through.
In life, even if you hail from a wealthy family, there's no assurance that the wealth will last forever. Material possessions can be lost over time. However, if you are educated and hold a degree, it acts as your armor in life's battles, a shield that accompanies you wherever you go. Your education is an invaluable asset that can't be taken away from you.
If you come from a family that isn't financially well-off, education provides the perfect opportunity to bring about a positive change and make a significant difference in your family's life. You might have heard of billionaires who didn't complete their college education, and while that's true, they had unique, marketable ideas that propelled them to their wealth.
In life, even if you hail from a wealthy family, there's no assurance that the wealth will last forever. Material possessions can be lost over time. However, if you are educated and hold a degree, it acts as your armor in life's battles, a shield that accompanies you wherever you go. Your education is an invaluable asset that can't be taken away from you.
If you come from a family that isn't financially well-off, education provides the perfect opportunity to bring about a positive change and make a significant difference in your family's life. You might have heard of billionaires who didn't complete their college education, and while that's true, they had unique, marketable ideas that propelled them to their wealth.
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
607
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
I think it can be if you have a plan. If you take the chance to learn, network and grow, there can be benefit.
I think starting to understand what type of life you want might help clarify if college can be helpful. Some professions require a degree while others you can break into with experience and a great attitude.
Start with understanding what you may want to do in life. Career fairs, internships and talk with adults in your life and ask about their work. Hopefully that will help.
I think starting to understand what type of life you want might help clarify if college can be helpful. Some professions require a degree while others you can break into with experience and a great attitude.
Start with understanding what you may want to do in life. Career fairs, internships and talk with adults in your life and ask about their work. Hopefully that will help.
Peter Tucker
Customer Experience Specialist
3
Answers
La Mesa, California
Updated
Peter’s Answer
College isn't just about linking education to a future career, although that's an important factor in your decision. It's a golden chance for personal development, a journey of self-discovery, and a stepping stone to independence from home life. The skills and experiences you gain there are like precious gems in the job market. The diploma you earn from college carries great worth, but the personal growth you achieve is beyond measure - it's truly invaluable.
Roel Ramon
Product Management and Development
64
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Roel’s Answer
To determine whether college is the right path for you, consider your future goals. Do they require a college degree? Take some time for introspection to make an informed decision about whether college is the right fit for you.
College is a significant investment in your time and future. Education is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere, and you can never be over-educated. So, if you have lofty dreams for yourself and a desire to expand your knowledge, I would wholeheartedly recommend college. It's a step that can bring you closer to your aspirations.
College is a significant investment in your time and future. Education is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere, and you can never be over-educated. So, if you have lofty dreams for yourself and a desire to expand your knowledge, I would wholeheartedly recommend college. It's a step that can bring you closer to your aspirations.
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1879
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Kayla !
You ask a very important question and I would like to add to the valuable advice you have already received. You will know if college is right for you if you want to go and often imagine yourself in college. You would fondly think about and get the feeling that it is the way you wish to progress as an individual personally as well as learn things for a future career. You will view college as a natural progression in life. You will know based on your love for reading and writing and having a need to explore. These are some of the things that will let you know that you are meant to be a college student. If you are approaching it for reasons of getting a high paying job, or that someone is pushing you, and you are bothered by the work in high school, college may not be for you.
College is worth the money if you make the commitment and see it through till you graduate. It is something you do for personal growth as well as future career intentions. In college, you will have the challenges that you would never encounter the same anywhere else. I think that the financial investment is well worth it.
So, if you're doing well in high school, sincerely like school, enjoy learning and being assigned work and projects, college could be a good fit for you. There are various ways that the financial aspect of college can be taken care of, especially for undergraduate studies. Do not let the financial aspect of college hold you back.
If you find that you do not want to go to college, there are very many training programs you can do, so there are alternatives to college. I hope this has helped and I wish you the best in all you do !
You ask a very important question and I would like to add to the valuable advice you have already received. You will know if college is right for you if you want to go and often imagine yourself in college. You would fondly think about and get the feeling that it is the way you wish to progress as an individual personally as well as learn things for a future career. You will view college as a natural progression in life. You will know based on your love for reading and writing and having a need to explore. These are some of the things that will let you know that you are meant to be a college student. If you are approaching it for reasons of getting a high paying job, or that someone is pushing you, and you are bothered by the work in high school, college may not be for you.
College is worth the money if you make the commitment and see it through till you graduate. It is something you do for personal growth as well as future career intentions. In college, you will have the challenges that you would never encounter the same anywhere else. I think that the financial investment is well worth it.
So, if you're doing well in high school, sincerely like school, enjoy learning and being assigned work and projects, college could be a good fit for you. There are various ways that the financial aspect of college can be taken care of, especially for undergraduate studies. Do not let the financial aspect of college hold you back.
If you find that you do not want to go to college, there are very many training programs you can do, so there are alternatives to college. I hope this has helped and I wish you the best in all you do !