13 answers
Q
Student
Garland, Texas
1
Question
Asked
3324 views
How do I know if I want to go to college or not?
I'm interested in various subjects, but college is so expensive and I don't know if any would lead to a good job after college
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13 answers
Tara McLauchlan
People Management
3
Answers
Golden, Colorado
Updated
Tara’s Answer
I love this question. You're right! College is expensive. When I was growing up, it didn't seem like an option to NOT go to college, but I think we're now in a time and place where there are a LOT of options that don't require you to go to college or to go to college later if you want to. Some things you might think about...
1. A lower cost option, such as community college or online courses (some others named these above). If you're interested in continuing to learn but aren't sure what you want to specialize in yet, these options are fantastic ways to get general ed credits that can then transfer into a school toward a Bachelor's degree while saving a lot of money. You might decide to get an Associate's degree and call it good (which is perfectly fine!)
2. Vocational or trade school. While these can still cost money upfront, they are significantly shorter and get you working in a specialized field much faster. I used to manage a few programs within software engineering boot camps; students from all backgrounds and education levels would come to learn for 3-6 months and then be qualified for higher-paying jobs than they were previously qualified for. For this option, I would suggest doing some research into what is available near you (or online!), the costs and the outcomes of the programs (aka check out the program's success rates! They should list these if they are proud of the number of students who have gotten jobs because of their program!) I would also suggest trying out some free online courses (Udemy and Coursera are great places to start) just to see if you like the topic/area of study.
3. Seek out non-collegiate certifications that might prepare you for the role(s) you are interested in. Similar to a vocational school, these might not be associated with universities or colleges, but could still lend you valuable skills in the roles you would like. I'm currently studying for a certification in Project Management, for example; there is no previous education requirement for this, but it will help to showcase a skillset that I can offer to employers.
4. Get a job! Many jobs do not require a college degree and allow you to start getting work experience right away. A number of my friends graduated with significant debt that they are still paying off, while a cousin of mine decided to pause after one year of college and is currently very successful in sales. There are also a number of employers that offer tuition reimbursement or education support, finding a job with a company that could help pay for your college could be another way to make this more cost-effective.
I would highly encourage you to do what is right for you as you make your decision. It's easy to feel pressured into doing something you 'should' do, but in my experience, jumping into something before you're ready can lead to a worse outcome. Give yourself time to decide so that you feel confident in your choice, whether or not it's to go to school, and remember that you can always go later if you want to. I currently work with several adult students who are now coming back to college after taking years to work first, and they're doing so with a clear vision of how they want to improve or change their careers.
Wishing you all the best in your decision!
1. A lower cost option, such as community college or online courses (some others named these above). If you're interested in continuing to learn but aren't sure what you want to specialize in yet, these options are fantastic ways to get general ed credits that can then transfer into a school toward a Bachelor's degree while saving a lot of money. You might decide to get an Associate's degree and call it good (which is perfectly fine!)
2. Vocational or trade school. While these can still cost money upfront, they are significantly shorter and get you working in a specialized field much faster. I used to manage a few programs within software engineering boot camps; students from all backgrounds and education levels would come to learn for 3-6 months and then be qualified for higher-paying jobs than they were previously qualified for. For this option, I would suggest doing some research into what is available near you (or online!), the costs and the outcomes of the programs (aka check out the program's success rates! They should list these if they are proud of the number of students who have gotten jobs because of their program!) I would also suggest trying out some free online courses (Udemy and Coursera are great places to start) just to see if you like the topic/area of study.
3. Seek out non-collegiate certifications that might prepare you for the role(s) you are interested in. Similar to a vocational school, these might not be associated with universities or colleges, but could still lend you valuable skills in the roles you would like. I'm currently studying for a certification in Project Management, for example; there is no previous education requirement for this, but it will help to showcase a skillset that I can offer to employers.
4. Get a job! Many jobs do not require a college degree and allow you to start getting work experience right away. A number of my friends graduated with significant debt that they are still paying off, while a cousin of mine decided to pause after one year of college and is currently very successful in sales. There are also a number of employers that offer tuition reimbursement or education support, finding a job with a company that could help pay for your college could be another way to make this more cost-effective.
I would highly encourage you to do what is right for you as you make your decision. It's easy to feel pressured into doing something you 'should' do, but in my experience, jumping into something before you're ready can lead to a worse outcome. Give yourself time to decide so that you feel confident in your choice, whether or not it's to go to school, and remember that you can always go later if you want to. I currently work with several adult students who are now coming back to college after taking years to work first, and they're doing so with a clear vision of how they want to improve or change their careers.
Wishing you all the best in your decision!
Adam Ciatti
Financial Analyst
4
Answers
Round Rock, Texas
Updated
Adam’s Answer
College is not necessary. It is great for learning, being exposed to living on your own, and creating connections, both professional and plutonic. If you have to go into a lot of debt to go to college, don't do it! Just find a job and start working. You can learn everything you need on the job and with hard work and dedication, you can move up the ladder.
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
780
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Well, Q, deciding whether to go to college is a big decision, and I understand that it's not an easy one. It's great that you're interested in various subjects – that curiosity is something I've always admired in my own children.
Now, about college being expensive, that's a valid concern. I had that same concern for my own children going off to college, but there are so many avenues to pay for college and know that you are not alone in your thoughts and concerns. However, I've advised my own children that education is an investment, and we must weigh the costs against potential benefits. Look, I want you to follow your passion and pursue what truly interests you. If there's a particular field or subject you're passionate about, college might be the right path to gain deeper knowledge and expertise.
However, it's essential to consider the practical side too; research job markets for your interests and recognize that some careers prioritize experience and skills over degrees. Some careers may require a degree, while others might value experience and skills more. Think about your long-term goals and how college fits into that picture.
If you're unsure, it might be worth exploring alternatives like vocational training, apprenticeships, or gaining practical experience in the workforce. Many successful people have taken different paths, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer.
Ultimately, I as I told my own children, all I want for them is to be happy and fulfilled in whatever they choose. It's okay to have doubts and concerns; it's a part of making important decisions. Take your time, do your research, and trust yourself. Your parents will support you every step of the way, regardless of the chosen path.
Now, about college being expensive, that's a valid concern. I had that same concern for my own children going off to college, but there are so many avenues to pay for college and know that you are not alone in your thoughts and concerns. However, I've advised my own children that education is an investment, and we must weigh the costs against potential benefits. Look, I want you to follow your passion and pursue what truly interests you. If there's a particular field or subject you're passionate about, college might be the right path to gain deeper knowledge and expertise.
However, it's essential to consider the practical side too; research job markets for your interests and recognize that some careers prioritize experience and skills over degrees. Some careers may require a degree, while others might value experience and skills more. Think about your long-term goals and how college fits into that picture.
If you're unsure, it might be worth exploring alternatives like vocational training, apprenticeships, or gaining practical experience in the workforce. Many successful people have taken different paths, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer.
Ultimately, I as I told my own children, all I want for them is to be happy and fulfilled in whatever they choose. It's okay to have doubts and concerns; it's a part of making important decisions. Take your time, do your research, and trust yourself. Your parents will support you every step of the way, regardless of the chosen path.
John Husband
Computer Science, Real Estate, Life
47
Answers
Boca Raton
Updated
John’s Answer
Howdy Garland, :-)
I lived life without a college education. I never needed it to do my job, BUT, and this is huge, I had a much harder time getting work as a result of not having a degree.
As far as the money goes, it's important to get a degree that pays. Any degree is probably better than no degree. But if you want to maximize your return on investment and get out from under student loans pick a degree and thus a job that is going to pay in the end.
Let me also recommend you look at colleges differently. Some college campuses today care more about ideology than getting you a job at the end of your education. Find a college that emphasizes getting you a job more than safe spaces and you'll do fine.
Statically, people with college educations get paid double that of people without a degree. In my case even though I didn't need a degree to do the work, I would have made a lot more money if I had one...
Work hard, work smart, make your own luck,
-John
Get a degree
Make sure your degree will pay you in the end
Pick a college that emphasizes internships and job placement
Stay away from schools that emphasize safe spaces
I lived life without a college education. I never needed it to do my job, BUT, and this is huge, I had a much harder time getting work as a result of not having a degree.
As far as the money goes, it's important to get a degree that pays. Any degree is probably better than no degree. But if you want to maximize your return on investment and get out from under student loans pick a degree and thus a job that is going to pay in the end.
Let me also recommend you look at colleges differently. Some college campuses today care more about ideology than getting you a job at the end of your education. Find a college that emphasizes getting you a job more than safe spaces and you'll do fine.
Statically, people with college educations get paid double that of people without a degree. In my case even though I didn't need a degree to do the work, I would have made a lot more money if I had one...
Work hard, work smart, make your own luck,
-John
John recommends the following next steps:
Karin P.
Lecturer
375
Answers
Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Q,
You certainly don't HAVE to go to college, but statistically speaking college graduates have higher paying jobs and are less likely to be unemployed. Nobody would be able to tell you if it will work out for you though. But that's the case for any future plans. You just take a reasonable risk and hope to land on your feet. College is certainly a time of self-discovery and growth while you find out what all is out there: all that knowledge, all those smart cool people.
I would start the question from the other side - if you don't consider the financial aspect, what would you want to be? What jobs interest you? What are you good at? What are you passionate about? Do you generally LIKE to go to school and learn stuff?
If you can identify one field that you are passionate about, try to make it happen. There is financial aid, there are scholarships. You can work parttime etc.
If on the other hand you are not sure if and what you are interested in, and you don't like learning anyway, maybe it's a good idea to step out for a year or too, make some money, try out some different professions and see how you like it. Maybe you'll find your dream career and get interested again in college. Or maybe you'll find your dream career in some trade.
Good luck!
KP
You certainly don't HAVE to go to college, but statistically speaking college graduates have higher paying jobs and are less likely to be unemployed. Nobody would be able to tell you if it will work out for you though. But that's the case for any future plans. You just take a reasonable risk and hope to land on your feet. College is certainly a time of self-discovery and growth while you find out what all is out there: all that knowledge, all those smart cool people.
I would start the question from the other side - if you don't consider the financial aspect, what would you want to be? What jobs interest you? What are you good at? What are you passionate about? Do you generally LIKE to go to school and learn stuff?
If you can identify one field that you are passionate about, try to make it happen. There is financial aid, there are scholarships. You can work parttime etc.
If on the other hand you are not sure if and what you are interested in, and you don't like learning anyway, maybe it's a good idea to step out for a year or too, make some money, try out some different professions and see how you like it. Maybe you'll find your dream career and get interested again in college. Or maybe you'll find your dream career in some trade.
Good luck!
KP
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello there Q,
A Warm Welcome!
Choosing to attend college or not is a major life decision that demands thoughtful deliberation. It's crucial to balance the potential advantages of higher education against the associated costs and uncertainties. While college can offer precious knowledge, skills, and networking opportunities, it's also a fact that it can be pricey and doesn't always guarantee a great job post-graduation. In this discussion, we'll delve into several aspects that can assist you in determining if college is the right path for you.
Self-Contemplation
Before making a choice about college, it's vital to introspect and assess your personal interests, goals, and aspirations. Here are a few questions to ponder:
What are your passions and interests? Think about the subjects you love learning or engaging with during your leisure time. Recognizing your passions can steer you towards study areas that resonate with your interests.
What are your long-term career aspirations? Identify the career trajectory you see for yourself and research the educational prerequisites needed to chase those goals. Some professions may necessitate a college degree, while others may not.
Are there alternate routes to reach your goals? Reflect on whether there are other ways to achieve your desired career without a college degree. Some industries value experience, certifications, apprenticeships, or vocational training more than formal education.
How do you learn best? Think about your preferred learning method and consider if a structured academic setting suits you or if you excel in practical learning experiences.
Investigate Career Paths
A practical way to determine if college will lead to a rewarding job is by investigating different career paths that interest you. Review the educational prerequisites and job prospects for careers you find enticing. Some resources that can aid in this research include:
Occupational Outlook Handbook: Published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), this resource offers comprehensive information on various jobs, including job prospects, required education levels, average salaries, and more.
O*NET Online: This extensive database provides detailed information on jobs, including required skills, knowledge, and abilities. It also offers data on job growth forecasts and educational prerequisites.
By scrutinizing the job market and understanding the demand for certain professions, you can gain insight into whether a college degree is necessary or beneficial for your desired career path.
Evaluate Financial Aspects
The expense of college is a major worry for many people. While it's true that college can be costly, there are several aspects to consider when assessing the financial angle:
Scholarships and Financial Aid: Investigate the availability of scholarships, grants, and financial aid options that can help reduce the cost of tuition. Many institutions offer merit-based scholarships or need-based financial aid packages.
Return on Investment (ROI): Assess the potential return on investment of a college education by considering the average salaries and employment rates of graduates in your field of interest. This information can provide insight into the earning potential after obtaining a degree.
Alternative Education Options: Look into alternative education options such as community colleges, trade schools, or online programs that may offer more affordable tuition rates while still providing valuable skills and credentials.
Considering these financial aspects can help you make an informed decision about whether the advantages of a college education outweigh the expenses.
Seek Suggestions and Guidance
It can be beneficial to seek advice from trusted individuals who have experience or expertise in the field you are interested in pursuing. Consider reaching out to professionals working in your desired industry or speaking with career counselors who can provide guidance based on your specific circumstances.
Moreover, conversing with current college students or recent graduates can offer you insights into their experiences and whether they believe their education was worth the investment.
In Conclusion
Deciding whether or not to attend college is a personal choice that depends on various factors. By introspecting, researching career paths, evaluating financial aspects, and seeking advice, you can make a more informed decision about whether college is the right choice for you. Remember, there are alternate paths to success that may not necessitate a college degree, so it's crucial to explore all available options.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - The BLS offers extensive and reliable information on various jobs, including job prospects, educational prerequisites, and salary data.
O*NET Online - O*NET Online is an extensive database that provides detailed information on jobs, including required skills, knowledge, and abilities. It also offers data on job growth forecasts and educational prerequisites.
College Board - The College Board is a trusted source that provides information on college planning, financial aid, scholarships, and career exploration. It can be a valuable resource for individuals considering higher education.
Don't forget to check out my Bio in "About James Frangos." I offer nutrition education and strategies to enhance your nutrient intake for academic performance.
May God Bless You,
James Constantine.
A Warm Welcome!
Choosing to attend college or not is a major life decision that demands thoughtful deliberation. It's crucial to balance the potential advantages of higher education against the associated costs and uncertainties. While college can offer precious knowledge, skills, and networking opportunities, it's also a fact that it can be pricey and doesn't always guarantee a great job post-graduation. In this discussion, we'll delve into several aspects that can assist you in determining if college is the right path for you.
Self-Contemplation
Before making a choice about college, it's vital to introspect and assess your personal interests, goals, and aspirations. Here are a few questions to ponder:
What are your passions and interests? Think about the subjects you love learning or engaging with during your leisure time. Recognizing your passions can steer you towards study areas that resonate with your interests.
What are your long-term career aspirations? Identify the career trajectory you see for yourself and research the educational prerequisites needed to chase those goals. Some professions may necessitate a college degree, while others may not.
Are there alternate routes to reach your goals? Reflect on whether there are other ways to achieve your desired career without a college degree. Some industries value experience, certifications, apprenticeships, or vocational training more than formal education.
How do you learn best? Think about your preferred learning method and consider if a structured academic setting suits you or if you excel in practical learning experiences.
Investigate Career Paths
A practical way to determine if college will lead to a rewarding job is by investigating different career paths that interest you. Review the educational prerequisites and job prospects for careers you find enticing. Some resources that can aid in this research include:
Occupational Outlook Handbook: Published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), this resource offers comprehensive information on various jobs, including job prospects, required education levels, average salaries, and more.
O*NET Online: This extensive database provides detailed information on jobs, including required skills, knowledge, and abilities. It also offers data on job growth forecasts and educational prerequisites.
By scrutinizing the job market and understanding the demand for certain professions, you can gain insight into whether a college degree is necessary or beneficial for your desired career path.
Evaluate Financial Aspects
The expense of college is a major worry for many people. While it's true that college can be costly, there are several aspects to consider when assessing the financial angle:
Scholarships and Financial Aid: Investigate the availability of scholarships, grants, and financial aid options that can help reduce the cost of tuition. Many institutions offer merit-based scholarships or need-based financial aid packages.
Return on Investment (ROI): Assess the potential return on investment of a college education by considering the average salaries and employment rates of graduates in your field of interest. This information can provide insight into the earning potential after obtaining a degree.
Alternative Education Options: Look into alternative education options such as community colleges, trade schools, or online programs that may offer more affordable tuition rates while still providing valuable skills and credentials.
Considering these financial aspects can help you make an informed decision about whether the advantages of a college education outweigh the expenses.
Seek Suggestions and Guidance
It can be beneficial to seek advice from trusted individuals who have experience or expertise in the field you are interested in pursuing. Consider reaching out to professionals working in your desired industry or speaking with career counselors who can provide guidance based on your specific circumstances.
Moreover, conversing with current college students or recent graduates can offer you insights into their experiences and whether they believe their education was worth the investment.
In Conclusion
Deciding whether or not to attend college is a personal choice that depends on various factors. By introspecting, researching career paths, evaluating financial aspects, and seeking advice, you can make a more informed decision about whether college is the right choice for you. Remember, there are alternate paths to success that may not necessitate a college degree, so it's crucial to explore all available options.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - The BLS offers extensive and reliable information on various jobs, including job prospects, educational prerequisites, and salary data.
O*NET Online - O*NET Online is an extensive database that provides detailed information on jobs, including required skills, knowledge, and abilities. It also offers data on job growth forecasts and educational prerequisites.
College Board - The College Board is a trusted source that provides information on college planning, financial aid, scholarships, and career exploration. It can be a valuable resource for individuals considering higher education.
Don't forget to check out my Bio in "About James Frangos." I offer nutrition education and strategies to enhance your nutrient intake for academic performance.
May God Bless You,
James Constantine.
Juney Dijkstra
Business Development / Production / Project Management
39
Answers
Hilversum, North Holland, Netherlands
Updated
Juney’s Answer
Though online courses have already been suggested as an alternate option, I want to make a small addition to their benefits: You can take a (free!) online course to get a feel for what it'd be like to dedicate anywhere between a small to major portion of your time to education. At the very least, it can give you a feel for what you'd be signing up for if you had the course load of several classes, especially if you've been out of formal education for a little while.
It'll be a personal evaluation & decision. For me, given my circumstances & geography, it was more than worth it, even though I'm not actively using much of what I studied day-to-day. University taught me how to perform and report proper research, how to reason and think critically & analytically, and how to write high quality convincing narratives, even if the topic material is less applicable in my job. But, my discipline / future career path, as well as the subsidized nature of education in my geography, heavily influenced the decision -- as did my personal inclination towards continued study!
It'll be a personal evaluation & decision. For me, given my circumstances & geography, it was more than worth it, even though I'm not actively using much of what I studied day-to-day. University taught me how to perform and report proper research, how to reason and think critically & analytically, and how to write high quality convincing narratives, even if the topic material is less applicable in my job. But, my discipline / future career path, as well as the subsidized nature of education in my geography, heavily influenced the decision -- as did my personal inclination towards continued study!
Antonio McCoy
Customer Service
61
Answers
Batesville, Arkansas
Updated
Antonio’s Answer
I would advise to take a self reflection and what you envision for your life. College is not for everyone. That doesnt mean that you will be less successful if you don't attend college. There are trades that could be used to have a very successful life. Some professions however does require college education to meet requirements for specific job title. Make sure to take time to locate whats important and personal to you and build from there.
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1913
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
You will know if you want to go to college the same way that you know all the other choices you make on a daily basis. The one thing that will deter you is to view college as an expensive drain and to overthink or guess at what will happen after college. That will take you to a place in which you will have to explore other ways of preparing yourself for your future. No one knows exactly what opportunities will present themselves after college. You either want to go to college with all your heart and mind or you don't want to go to college and start making other plans. College is not a tool, it's a process and a profound experience and that means personal growth, wisdom, skills, communication and qualifications for careers. Do you want a job or a career ? Research the jobs that don't require college degrees and see if any of them are something that you want to spend a third of your day doing.
Some colleges are more expensive than others. You can go to a community college for an Associates to see how those two years go if you are worried about the expense. The only thing I can advise you on is how defeating it is for you to authentically choose if you are worried about the money and a result of what you think is a good job. If you think you could obtain that good job on your own without professional contacts, without the experience of doing projects, and are willing to self-teach, by all means, spare the expense of going to college. You can always go later on in life, however, it will be more stressful and more expensive, so you'll need to make and justify your decision now.
Another option to avoid debt would be to work and take one course in college at a time. See how it goes and when you find out about all the various ways to have your education financed without taking out any loans, you may change your mind. Explore options and speak with your guidance counselor and people at some local colleges. Think about your future and set priorities for general things you'd like to have in your life. Will not going to college provide that for you ? It is a choice that only you can make. Start reading about how to finance your college attendance without debt. You can find articles on line about this through doing a search. Ultimately, it will be only your decision but you need to be informed and explore ways to keep things as inexpensive and debt free as possible. That also means looking up information about financial aid, work study, grants and scholarships and see how much your parents are willing to help out.
In whatever you choose, I wish you all the best and hope that you make a decision that will be worthwhile for your future !
Some colleges are more expensive than others. You can go to a community college for an Associates to see how those two years go if you are worried about the expense. The only thing I can advise you on is how defeating it is for you to authentically choose if you are worried about the money and a result of what you think is a good job. If you think you could obtain that good job on your own without professional contacts, without the experience of doing projects, and are willing to self-teach, by all means, spare the expense of going to college. You can always go later on in life, however, it will be more stressful and more expensive, so you'll need to make and justify your decision now.
Another option to avoid debt would be to work and take one course in college at a time. See how it goes and when you find out about all the various ways to have your education financed without taking out any loans, you may change your mind. Explore options and speak with your guidance counselor and people at some local colleges. Think about your future and set priorities for general things you'd like to have in your life. Will not going to college provide that for you ? It is a choice that only you can make. Start reading about how to finance your college attendance without debt. You can find articles on line about this through doing a search. Ultimately, it will be only your decision but you need to be informed and explore ways to keep things as inexpensive and debt free as possible. That also means looking up information about financial aid, work study, grants and scholarships and see how much your parents are willing to help out.
In whatever you choose, I wish you all the best and hope that you make a decision that will be worthwhile for your future !
Aisha Taylor
Mortgage Closing Specialist
472
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Aisha’s Answer
Hello Q,
Before you take the plunge and enroll, it's crucial to take a good look at your current life situation. College is a significant undertaking, regardless of whether you're planning to go full-time or part-time, or whether you're aiming for a two-year or four-year degree. Be prepared to possibly press pause on other areas of your life as you focus on advancing your education.
Best,
Before you take the plunge and enroll, it's crucial to take a good look at your current life situation. College is a significant undertaking, regardless of whether you're planning to go full-time or part-time, or whether you're aiming for a two-year or four-year degree. Be prepared to possibly press pause on other areas of your life as you focus on advancing your education.
Best,
Monterrey Holland
Customer service representative
1
Answer
Arlington, Texas
Updated
Monterrey’s Answer
Indeed, college can be a hefty expense, but consider it as an investment in your future. My top tip for you is to avoid taking out a loan, if it's within your means. Prioritize seeking job opportunities that offer tuition reimbursement or grants before resorting to loans to finance your aspirations. Many jobs offer entry-level positions that don't require a degree, providing a stepping stone for your career growth! Remember, everyone begins their journey from the ground up and steadily climbs their way to the top! If you pour your heart and soul into your goals, financial rewards will follow. There's always a path to success.
Brandon Olson
Tax Manager
52
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Brandon’s Answer
Choosing to go to college is a major life decision, and it's crucial to think about your ambitions, interests, and personal situation. Here are some elements to help you decide if college is the right journey for you:
Career Aspirations:
Think about the job you dream of having. Certain careers necessitate a college degree, while others might prioritize experience or alternative educational routes. Investigate the usual educational prerequisites for your chosen profession.
Passions and Interests:
Examine your interests and passions. If there's a particular field or topic you're passionate about and a college education is needed to pursue it, then college could be a great choice.
Career Path Research:
Investigate the careers that capture your interest and discover the usual educational backgrounds required. You can also look into other routes, like vocational training or apprenticeships, depending on the sector.
Financial Factors:
Assess the expense of college and balance it against your financial circumstances. Look into financial aid possibilities, scholarships, and consider the potential return on investment in terms of future income potential.
Alternative Routes:
Think about other educational routes, such as vocational training, apprenticeships, or online classes. Some careers may provide on-the-job training or value hands-on experience more than a conventional degree.
Professional Consultation:
Engage with professionals in the fields you're interested in. Ask for their opinion on the relevance of a college degree in their sector and learn about their own career journeys.
Skill Acquisition:
Evaluate the skills needed for your dream career. If you can acquire these skills through hands-on experience, certifications, or workshops, you might have alternatives to a traditional college education.
Personal Ambitions and Principles:
Reflect on your personal ambitions and principles. Some individuals flourish in academic environments, while others might prefer practical experience. Consider your own learning style and preferences.
Future Planning:
Ponder your long-term ambitions. Will a college degree significantly aid in achieving those ambitions? Weigh the potential advantages and disadvantages in the context of your dreams.
Gap Year or Work Experience:
Taking a gap year to gain work experience or explore various opportunities can offer valuable insights and assist you in making a more informed decision about college.
In the end, the choice to attend college is a personal one, and there isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. It's crucial to make an informed decision based on your unique situation, ambitions, and principles. If in doubt, consider seeking advice from career counselors, mentors, or professionals in your chosen field.
Career Aspirations:
Think about the job you dream of having. Certain careers necessitate a college degree, while others might prioritize experience or alternative educational routes. Investigate the usual educational prerequisites for your chosen profession.
Passions and Interests:
Examine your interests and passions. If there's a particular field or topic you're passionate about and a college education is needed to pursue it, then college could be a great choice.
Career Path Research:
Investigate the careers that capture your interest and discover the usual educational backgrounds required. You can also look into other routes, like vocational training or apprenticeships, depending on the sector.
Financial Factors:
Assess the expense of college and balance it against your financial circumstances. Look into financial aid possibilities, scholarships, and consider the potential return on investment in terms of future income potential.
Alternative Routes:
Think about other educational routes, such as vocational training, apprenticeships, or online classes. Some careers may provide on-the-job training or value hands-on experience more than a conventional degree.
Professional Consultation:
Engage with professionals in the fields you're interested in. Ask for their opinion on the relevance of a college degree in their sector and learn about their own career journeys.
Skill Acquisition:
Evaluate the skills needed for your dream career. If you can acquire these skills through hands-on experience, certifications, or workshops, you might have alternatives to a traditional college education.
Personal Ambitions and Principles:
Reflect on your personal ambitions and principles. Some individuals flourish in academic environments, while others might prefer practical experience. Consider your own learning style and preferences.
Future Planning:
Ponder your long-term ambitions. Will a college degree significantly aid in achieving those ambitions? Weigh the potential advantages and disadvantages in the context of your dreams.
Gap Year or Work Experience:
Taking a gap year to gain work experience or explore various opportunities can offer valuable insights and assist you in making a more informed decision about college.
In the end, the choice to attend college is a personal one, and there isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. It's crucial to make an informed decision based on your unique situation, ambitions, and principles. If in doubt, consider seeking advice from career counselors, mentors, or professionals in your chosen field.
Olivia Stoppels
Concierge
4
Answers
Windermere, Florida
Updated
Olivia’s Answer
I want to say you do not have to go to college especially right after high school. I would say if you are struggling to figure out what you want to do for a career, I would take a break from school and get a job somewhere that will help you learn different areas. From there you can see what you like and what you don’t and help you narrow down what sparks your interest and then if you need to go to school to earn a degree you can and you won’t waste money and keep changing your degree. It always helps to have real life experience!