5 answers
JB
Student
4
Questions
Updated
418 views
Should I already opt considering college this year?
Currently enrolled as a Grade 11 student, fresh out from Junior High still. My plan is to deviate from synchronous learning all through G12 if probable. Therefor an asynchronous modularity or self-paced learning is an attractive option given that I wanted to make way for my own study of interests for more practical pursuits congruent to my visions of future. However, this question lingered through my mind as I value time and an efficient, methodological academics. I'd appreciate advices for the aforementioned aspects respectively.
5 answers
Katherine L
45
Answers
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
Hi! Making this important decision depends on your personal aims and what matters most to you. If you choose to go to college this year, you'll benefit from a clear path of academic growth, the chance to make friends, and access to useful resources. This can help you keep pace with your classmates and build connections for your future. Plus, you'll be able to finish your degree earlier, which means you could start working or go on to further study sooner. However, if you decide to take a gap year for self-paced learning, you'll have the freedom to explore, study what interests you, and develop skills that align with your career goals. This option promotes personal development, self-reliance, and self-understanding. It's important to carefully plan your gap year to ensure you have a structured approach to your learning and can clearly explain its benefits to future colleges or employers. Getting advice from a school counselor or academic advisor can give you helpful insights and support that's suited to your particular situation. In the end, the choice you make should be based on your own vision for your education and future.
This is very much appreciated, you have helped me to a certain amount. Thank you.
JB
Fahad Osmani
Senior Director of Design
4
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Fahad’s Answer
Hi, I did something similar in high school. Dropped out around the 10 grade, and created my own study plan with publicly available curriculums to achieve the equivalent of a high school diploma a year earlier than usual. I picked my own subjects, set my own pace, and varied my depth in different subjects at times. It was a lot of fun and I was able to get it done with a lot of help from my family - however, there were some challenges as well.
I lost out on a few formative early social experiences learning how to negotiate and form connections with peers via shared experiences. Later on in college, I was a year or so younger which had similar drawbacks. I achieved my efficiency goals but had to give up some early social learning experiences that are, in retrospect, a big part of what high school and college are about.
My advice would be to give some thought to what you're trying to achieve with this path. Being efficient with your time is a good goal, but academic efficiency is just one of many factors to consider when tackling your education and career. Some of the other factors do include the kind of social and vocational development that come from a shared experience of an cohort-based education setting (group projects, getting an assignment done on time, getting feedback about doing better, learning to deal with failure, learning to enjoy and share success etc). Once you have a good sense of what's important to you, you can chat with a guidance counselor or a mentor to help you come up with a plan that matches those goals.
Good luck on your journey!
I lost out on a few formative early social experiences learning how to negotiate and form connections with peers via shared experiences. Later on in college, I was a year or so younger which had similar drawbacks. I achieved my efficiency goals but had to give up some early social learning experiences that are, in retrospect, a big part of what high school and college are about.
My advice would be to give some thought to what you're trying to achieve with this path. Being efficient with your time is a good goal, but academic efficiency is just one of many factors to consider when tackling your education and career. Some of the other factors do include the kind of social and vocational development that come from a shared experience of an cohort-based education setting (group projects, getting an assignment done on time, getting feedback about doing better, learning to deal with failure, learning to enjoy and share success etc). Once you have a good sense of what's important to you, you can chat with a guidance counselor or a mentor to help you come up with a plan that matches those goals.
Good luck on your journey!
Amalya Sukiasyan
ESOL teacher at Washington English Center
297
Answers
Yerevan
Updated
Amalya’s Answer
It's so interesting that you are so philosophical about life and values! I think philosophy could be a good major for you.
Contrasting values are a challenge for many of us, but we should try to collaborate, rather than argue with each other.
You should focus on your main goals and dreams, as well as your various moral, social, educational and regarding to the future, professional obligations in the firstplace. Then you will decide what kind of people are sharing your values and can positively contribute to your personal and professional development, also enriching others by your own values.
Wish you all the best and a great balance in drastically-changing world.
Contrasting values are a challenge for many of us, but we should try to collaborate, rather than argue with each other.
You should focus on your main goals and dreams, as well as your various moral, social, educational and regarding to the future, professional obligations in the firstplace. Then you will decide what kind of people are sharing your values and can positively contribute to your personal and professional development, also enriching others by your own values.
Wish you all the best and a great balance in drastically-changing world.
Nivea Hanley
AI Engineer
16
Answers
Clearwater, Florida
Updated
Nivea’s Answer
Going to college early can get you into the workforce faster and might save some tuition money, but it means you need to be super academically ready. On the flip side, self-paced learning in Grade 12 gives you time to dive into your passions and build some self-discipline, which can help you get ready for college. But, you've got to be super self-motivated, and college application timelines might not match up. Don't forget to think about the $$$ factor, too. Choose what vibes with your goals and chat with advisors for some extra guidance!
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
521
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
It's great that you're considering your options for your educational path. The decision of whether to opt for college this year or pursue a more self-paced approach is a significant one and depends on your individual goals and circumstances. Here's some advice for both aspects:
1. **Self-Paced Learning:** If you're motivated and disciplined enough to pursue self-paced learning, it can offer you flexibility and the opportunity to explore your interests deeply. Consider creating a structured plan for your self-paced learning journey, setting clear goals, and regularly evaluating your progress.
2. **Efficiency and Methodology:** Efficient learning is crucial, whether you choose a traditional college path or self-paced learning. Develop strong study habits, time management skills, and effective learning strategies. Seek out online courses, resources, or mentors that align with your interests and can provide guidance.
3. **College Timing:** If you're considering delaying college, think about how this decision aligns with your long-term goals. Some fields may require a formal degree, while others may value practical experience more. Research your desired career paths to see what they require.
4. **Gap Year:** Taking a gap year to explore your interests or gain real-world experience can be valuable. You could use this time to work, intern, travel, or engage in projects related to your vision for the future.
5. **Seek Guidance:** Talk to teachers, counselors, and mentors who can provide insights into your options. They can help you evaluate the pros and cons of both paths and how they align with your aspirations.
6. **Financial Considerations:** Keep in mind the financial aspect. If you opt for college, research scholarships, grants, and financial aid options. If you choose self-paced learning, consider how you'll support yourself during this time.
Ultimately, the decision should align with your vision for the future and your personal learning style. Both traditional college and self-paced learning can be valid paths, but what matters most is your commitment to learning and your ability to adapt and thrive in your chosen path.
1. **Self-Paced Learning:** If you're motivated and disciplined enough to pursue self-paced learning, it can offer you flexibility and the opportunity to explore your interests deeply. Consider creating a structured plan for your self-paced learning journey, setting clear goals, and regularly evaluating your progress.
2. **Efficiency and Methodology:** Efficient learning is crucial, whether you choose a traditional college path or self-paced learning. Develop strong study habits, time management skills, and effective learning strategies. Seek out online courses, resources, or mentors that align with your interests and can provide guidance.
3. **College Timing:** If you're considering delaying college, think about how this decision aligns with your long-term goals. Some fields may require a formal degree, while others may value practical experience more. Research your desired career paths to see what they require.
4. **Gap Year:** Taking a gap year to explore your interests or gain real-world experience can be valuable. You could use this time to work, intern, travel, or engage in projects related to your vision for the future.
5. **Seek Guidance:** Talk to teachers, counselors, and mentors who can provide insights into your options. They can help you evaluate the pros and cons of both paths and how they align with your aspirations.
6. **Financial Considerations:** Keep in mind the financial aspect. If you opt for college, research scholarships, grants, and financial aid options. If you choose self-paced learning, consider how you'll support yourself during this time.
Ultimately, the decision should align with your vision for the future and your personal learning style. Both traditional college and self-paced learning can be valid paths, but what matters most is your commitment to learning and your ability to adapt and thrive in your chosen path.
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