Deciding whether or not to attend college is a personal and complex decision influenced by various factors. While a college education can provide many benefits, some may be better off with other choices.
One of the main benefits of attending college is gaining specialized knowledge and skills that will give you an edge in the job market.
A college degree can open doors to higher-paying and more fulfilling careers and provide access to both professional networks and opportunities for advancement. Additionally, college graduates have better job security, lower unemployment rates, and higher lifetime earnings than those without college degrees.
However, college is only one of many paths to a successful career. For example, many successful entrepreneurs and self-made business leaders did not attend college. Additionally, many in-demand technology, healthcare and trades jobs do not require a college degree.
Another consideration is the cost of college. The price of attendance can be high, and it can take many years to pay off student loan debt. According to College Board, in the 2020-2021 academic year, students paid on average $40,560 at private colleges, $10,560 for state residents at public colleges and $26,820 for out-of-state residents attending public universities. Moreover, many students need help finding jobs after graduation in the current economic crisis. Because of this, they cannot pay their student loans, which can significantly impact their credit score and ability to purchase a home or car.
Furthermore, college is not just about career preparation; it is also a time of personal and intellectual growth. College is a time to explore new ideas, meet new people and gain independence. However, not everyone will thrive in the traditional college setting, and there are other ways to achieve personal and intellectual growth.
There are alternatives to college that are equally as useful but less expensive. For example, you could go to a trade school—which is often a cheaper alternative to a four-year college—for a specific career. Likewise, another path that many students take after their high school career is going into the military. Not only can it give you plenty of relevant experience to enter the workforce, but the government may even cover your tuition. “Not only does the military pay up to 100 percent of college tuition while you serve on active duty,” but it “also offers the GI Bill (about $36,000) to use for college up to 10 years after leaving the service.”
All in all, when considering whether or not to attend college, weighing the potential benefits against the costs is essential. A college education can be a valuable investment in your future, but it is vital to understand the long-term financial implications of that investment.
While going to a university can provide many benefits, remember that there are many other paths to success and growth beyond college. It is important to consider your goals, interests and financial situation when making this decision. Ultimately, it is essential to research and explores all options before deciding.