4 answers
amelia
Student
Yuma, Arizona
2
Questions
Asked
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Do the pros of college outweigh the cons? And why?
It seems like college is a huge waste of money and time to me.
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4 answers
Alan Weber
writer and retired teacher, teacher educator and academic advisor
207
Answers
Woodstock, New York
Updated
Alan’s Answer
Amelia, while many colleges are absurdly expensive, college would only be a waste of money and time if there is a specific career that doesn't require college and greatly appeals to you. If not, the reality is that college graduates earn approximately twice that of high school graduates. A college degree is all but expected of people entering the work force these days. But college is more than just that. It's a place to explore your interests, your intellect and your possible path in life. In college, one learns to think, to question, to research, to make decisions, to approach learning on an adult level. Don't sell it short, and, more importantly, don't sell yourself short. There are likely many fulfilling careers that could await you if only you go to college.
Sara Brewster
Director of Operations in Dell Technologies Marketing
7
Answers
Round Rock, TX
Updated
Sara’s Answer
Great question - i think it's completely dependent on the path you want to take. In many careers, a degree is mandatory - for instance, if you want to be a doctor, there isn't a loop hole. But i also feel very strongly that the college pathway isn't for everyone. There are a ton of vocational careers that are essential and underserved. You can also have a long and fulfilling career with certifications you can get through community colleges and online. The best learning pathway is experience!
Hwal Lee
DMSc, PA-C
227
Answers
Albany, New York
Updated
Hwal’s Answer
Amelia,
It seems to me like you're interested in a career in medicine. If this is the case, many, if not most or all, careers in medicine would require formal education, although how much education is required would naturally vary quite a bit and depend on the specific carer of you choose. For example, it took me over 7 years of full-time education with more than 240 completed credit hours to earn my associates, bachelor's, masters, and doctoral degrees. In comparison, about 8 weeks of vocational training in a community college helped me gain a verification and a job as a CNA (certified nursing assistant). For me, college education has been worth the investment of time and money.
I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any specific questions I can help with. Good luck!
Hwal
It seems to me like you're interested in a career in medicine. If this is the case, many, if not most or all, careers in medicine would require formal education, although how much education is required would naturally vary quite a bit and depend on the specific carer of you choose. For example, it took me over 7 years of full-time education with more than 240 completed credit hours to earn my associates, bachelor's, masters, and doctoral degrees. In comparison, about 8 weeks of vocational training in a community college helped me gain a verification and a job as a CNA (certified nursing assistant). For me, college education has been worth the investment of time and money.
I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any specific questions I can help with. Good luck!
Hwal
Derrick Davenport II
Associate District Manager
2
Answers
Hockley, Texas
Updated
Derrick’s Answer
Hello Amelia, your question is excellent and it's one I find myself pondering even now. I'm going to share my thoughts, but remember, the final decision about attending college is yours. Believe me, you can still achieve your goals, degree or not.
Currently, I'm a college student, gradually working towards my 2-year degree. It's been a six-year journey so far, and while I'm a business professional, unlike my colleagues, I don't hold a degree. Here's my key takeaway: a degree doesn't define your worth or capabilities. That being said, there are financial aids available that can turn college from a burden into a valuable asset. For example, you could secure an entry-level job in a field you love, with a company that offers educational reimbursement benefits. It's always a smart move to work for companies that will give you a year or two of valuable experience, which you can use as a stepping stone to move up or even start your own business.
Take my experience as an example. When I began my career in the life insurance industry, I learned essential skills like door knocking, interpreting body language, outside sales, communication, sales pitching, and leadership/personal development. It took me a year to start earning a decent income, but the skills I gained were priceless and have opened doors for me. The company also offered free community college education, and I seized this opportunity to take courses to enhance my skills. I didn't take these classes for a degree, but to gain knowledge that would hone my skills. Courses like Communication 101 and Psychology helped me understand people better, to name a few.
To sum it up, the most effective way to reach your goals is through networking. It's not just about what you know, but WHO you know. The world is full of kind-hearted people ready to extend a helping hand to individuals like you and me. Remember, no one achieves greatness alone; we are stronger together.
I hope you find this advice useful!
Write down the things that make you passionate and fuel your fire
Research what job or industry that falls into
Study and research people in those positions
Reach out to connect with them through email, linkedin or some form of contact
Ask questions to gain knowledge and help with your decision making process
Currently, I'm a college student, gradually working towards my 2-year degree. It's been a six-year journey so far, and while I'm a business professional, unlike my colleagues, I don't hold a degree. Here's my key takeaway: a degree doesn't define your worth or capabilities. That being said, there are financial aids available that can turn college from a burden into a valuable asset. For example, you could secure an entry-level job in a field you love, with a company that offers educational reimbursement benefits. It's always a smart move to work for companies that will give you a year or two of valuable experience, which you can use as a stepping stone to move up or even start your own business.
Take my experience as an example. When I began my career in the life insurance industry, I learned essential skills like door knocking, interpreting body language, outside sales, communication, sales pitching, and leadership/personal development. It took me a year to start earning a decent income, but the skills I gained were priceless and have opened doors for me. The company also offered free community college education, and I seized this opportunity to take courses to enhance my skills. I didn't take these classes for a degree, but to gain knowledge that would hone my skills. Courses like Communication 101 and Psychology helped me understand people better, to name a few.
To sum it up, the most effective way to reach your goals is through networking. It's not just about what you know, but WHO you know. The world is full of kind-hearted people ready to extend a helping hand to individuals like you and me. Remember, no one achieves greatness alone; we are stronger together.
I hope you find this advice useful!
Derrick recommends the following next steps: