8 answers
Lumin
Student
Spokane Valley, Washington
1
Question
Asked
2287 views
How to decide the best after highschool plan (marketing career)?
Hii! So, I've been wanting to pursue a career in marketing (more specifically international marketing as I would love to travel in my career). I'm currently a junior in high school, and I'm taking a few AP classes to help me when I go to college, but that's my problem. I've always wanted to go to college but now I'm having second thoughts. I currently have a 3.2 GPA, which I've been told isn't good enough to go out of state. While I have all my math credits, I can't get my Algebra 2 credits (as I didn't pass my sophomore year, and I didn't get the credits in the makeup class), and I'm worried that this is bad for college. I'm not sure if I should potentially pursue something different, but I am very open to a bit of advice. Thank you!!
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8 answers
David Ludwick
CEO
69
Answers
Huntington Beach, California
Updated
David’s Answer
Hi Lumin,
It’s great that you have a clear sense of direction and are thinking about your future so early. The fact that you already know you're interested in international marketing and have a desire to travel is a huge advantage — many students struggle to figure that out even in college. Let’s break this down step-by-step to help you make a more confident decision:
✅ 1. College is not the only path — but it’s still a strong one for marketing
While it’s true that many successful marketers don’t have a degree, a college education in marketing (especially international marketing) can give you key advantages, including:
Learning the fundamentals of marketing strategy and global business.
Building a network of professors, classmates, and alumni.
Access to study-abroad programs, internships, and career services.
However, if the stress around GPA and Algebra 2 is making you reconsider college, know that there are other options (which I’ll cover below).
🎯 2. Your 3.2 GPA isn’t a dealbreaker
A 3.2 GPA may make some out-of-state schools more challenging to get into, but:
Plenty of solid in-state schools and private colleges would accept that GPA.
Some schools focus more on your extracurriculars, essays, and personal story — and you already have a compelling one with your interest in marketing and travel.
Community colleges offer a strong alternative. You could start there, improve your GPA, and transfer to a four-year university later.
➡️ Action Step: Research schools with strong marketing or international business programs that have more flexible GPA requirements. Look at schools known for good transfer programs if you decide to start at a community college.
📚 3. Algebra 2 is important — but there are workarounds
Some colleges (especially for business degrees) do require Algebra 2, but you can:
Try to retake it during summer school or an online program.
Look for schools with more flexible math requirements — some liberal arts and business programs emphasize stats or business math over Algebra 2.
If you go the community college route, you may have more flexibility with math requirements when transferring.
➡️ Action Step: Talk to your high school counselor about options for making up Algebra 2. If that’s not possible, focus on schools that are more flexible with math.
🌍 4. If college doesn’t feel right — you can still build a marketing career
Marketing is a skill-based field where experience matters as much as a degree. If you decide college isn’t for you (or not right now), you could:
Pursue a marketing certificate (Google offers a well-respected one).
Start working at a marketing agency or company in an entry-level position.
Build experience by managing social media for local businesses, launching your own blog, or helping with event marketing.
Take online courses (Coursera, Udemy) in international business or digital marketing.
➡️ Action Step: Research alternative marketing paths and consider building experience while figuring out your next step.
💡 5. Keep your passion for international marketing in focus
Travel and international business are still very much achievable even if the college path changes:
Many global companies hire entry-level marketing roles.
Digital marketing is flexible — you can work remotely and still travel.
Building a strong portfolio of experience will matter more than where you went to school.
🔎 What You Could Do Next:
✅ Research colleges with flexible GPA and math requirements.
✅ Talk to your counselor about Algebra 2 recovery options.
✅ Look into study-abroad programs or international-focused business schools.
✅ Consider internships or entry-level work in marketing to gain early experience.
🚀 You’ve got this!
You already have a clear career goal, which is half the battle. Don’t let one class or a GPA number discourage you — there are multiple ways to build a successful international marketing career, and you’re already ahead of the game by thinking about this now.
It’s great that you have a clear sense of direction and are thinking about your future so early. The fact that you already know you're interested in international marketing and have a desire to travel is a huge advantage — many students struggle to figure that out even in college. Let’s break this down step-by-step to help you make a more confident decision:
✅ 1. College is not the only path — but it’s still a strong one for marketing
While it’s true that many successful marketers don’t have a degree, a college education in marketing (especially international marketing) can give you key advantages, including:
Learning the fundamentals of marketing strategy and global business.
Building a network of professors, classmates, and alumni.
Access to study-abroad programs, internships, and career services.
However, if the stress around GPA and Algebra 2 is making you reconsider college, know that there are other options (which I’ll cover below).
🎯 2. Your 3.2 GPA isn’t a dealbreaker
A 3.2 GPA may make some out-of-state schools more challenging to get into, but:
Plenty of solid in-state schools and private colleges would accept that GPA.
Some schools focus more on your extracurriculars, essays, and personal story — and you already have a compelling one with your interest in marketing and travel.
Community colleges offer a strong alternative. You could start there, improve your GPA, and transfer to a four-year university later.
➡️ Action Step: Research schools with strong marketing or international business programs that have more flexible GPA requirements. Look at schools known for good transfer programs if you decide to start at a community college.
📚 3. Algebra 2 is important — but there are workarounds
Some colleges (especially for business degrees) do require Algebra 2, but you can:
Try to retake it during summer school or an online program.
Look for schools with more flexible math requirements — some liberal arts and business programs emphasize stats or business math over Algebra 2.
If you go the community college route, you may have more flexibility with math requirements when transferring.
➡️ Action Step: Talk to your high school counselor about options for making up Algebra 2. If that’s not possible, focus on schools that are more flexible with math.
🌍 4. If college doesn’t feel right — you can still build a marketing career
Marketing is a skill-based field where experience matters as much as a degree. If you decide college isn’t for you (or not right now), you could:
Pursue a marketing certificate (Google offers a well-respected one).
Start working at a marketing agency or company in an entry-level position.
Build experience by managing social media for local businesses, launching your own blog, or helping with event marketing.
Take online courses (Coursera, Udemy) in international business or digital marketing.
➡️ Action Step: Research alternative marketing paths and consider building experience while figuring out your next step.
💡 5. Keep your passion for international marketing in focus
Travel and international business are still very much achievable even if the college path changes:
Many global companies hire entry-level marketing roles.
Digital marketing is flexible — you can work remotely and still travel.
Building a strong portfolio of experience will matter more than where you went to school.
🔎 What You Could Do Next:
✅ Research colleges with flexible GPA and math requirements.
✅ Talk to your counselor about Algebra 2 recovery options.
✅ Look into study-abroad programs or international-focused business schools.
✅ Consider internships or entry-level work in marketing to gain early experience.
🚀 You’ve got this!
You already have a clear career goal, which is half the battle. Don’t let one class or a GPA number discourage you — there are multiple ways to build a successful international marketing career, and you’re already ahead of the game by thinking about this now.
Thank you so much for the advice! I plan on trying to take an online course to make up my credit.
Lumin
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
1058
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Deciding on the best post-high school plan, especially when aiming for a career in international marketing, requires careful reflection and a strategic approach. It’s great that you’re already thinking ahead and considering your options. Pursuing a career in marketing—particularly international marketing—can be an exciting and fulfilling path, and there are multiple ways to get there, even if you’re unsure about the college route.
First, it’s important to recognize that a traditional four-year college degree is not the only path to success in marketing. While a degree in marketing, business, or a related field can certainly open doors, many individuals have built successful marketing careers through alternative pathways. If you are questioning whether college is the best choice, it’s valuable to consider all your options. Some top companies hire marketing professionals based on skills, experience, and practical knowledge, not just degrees. Internships, certifications, and practical experience—such as freelance work or working on real-world marketing campaigns—can help you build a strong foundation. Programs like Google’s digital marketing certificate or HubSpot’s inbound marketing certification can also boost your resume and demonstrate your knowledge of the field without the commitment to a four-year degree.
Regarding your GPA and Algebra 2 credits, it’s understandable to feel concerned, but it’s important not to see these as insurmountable obstacles. College admissions can vary greatly depending on the school, and some institutions are more flexible with applicants who show potential in other areas, such as extracurricular activities, personal projects, or work experience. If out-of-state colleges feel out of reach at the moment, you might want to explore local or in-state universities, which can often be just as impactful in providing quality education. Additionally, taking the time to retake Algebra 2 (or any necessary courses) either through summer school, community college, or online platforms can help ensure you meet all the academic requirements for college applications and demonstrate your commitment to academic improvement.
If you feel unsure about committing to a traditional college experience, you could also consider community college as a stepping stone. Many community colleges offer excellent marketing programs and allow you to transfer credits to four-year universities later on, saving you money and offering a more flexible academic environment. By starting at a community college, you can refine your skills, improve your GPA, and explore different areas of marketing—whether digital marketing, international marketing, or another specialty—before committing to a larger institution.
Ultimately, your decision should align with your long-term goals and personal circumstances. If international travel and marketing are at the forefront of your career aspirations, it might be worthwhile to consider studying abroad, pursuing internships in different countries, or even seeking entry-level jobs with global companies that offer travel opportunities. The marketing field is dynamic, with ample opportunities for those willing to be proactive, adaptable, and persistent.
In sum, while college can be a great option, it’s not the only pathway to a successful career in marketing. Assess your options carefully, seek out experiences that align with your passions and goals, and don’t be afraid to take non-traditional routes if they feel more aligned with your aspirations. Whether through internships, certifications, community college, or entry-level work, there are numerous ways to build the skills and experience you need to thrive in the world of international marketing.
First, it’s important to recognize that a traditional four-year college degree is not the only path to success in marketing. While a degree in marketing, business, or a related field can certainly open doors, many individuals have built successful marketing careers through alternative pathways. If you are questioning whether college is the best choice, it’s valuable to consider all your options. Some top companies hire marketing professionals based on skills, experience, and practical knowledge, not just degrees. Internships, certifications, and practical experience—such as freelance work or working on real-world marketing campaigns—can help you build a strong foundation. Programs like Google’s digital marketing certificate or HubSpot’s inbound marketing certification can also boost your resume and demonstrate your knowledge of the field without the commitment to a four-year degree.
Regarding your GPA and Algebra 2 credits, it’s understandable to feel concerned, but it’s important not to see these as insurmountable obstacles. College admissions can vary greatly depending on the school, and some institutions are more flexible with applicants who show potential in other areas, such as extracurricular activities, personal projects, or work experience. If out-of-state colleges feel out of reach at the moment, you might want to explore local or in-state universities, which can often be just as impactful in providing quality education. Additionally, taking the time to retake Algebra 2 (or any necessary courses) either through summer school, community college, or online platforms can help ensure you meet all the academic requirements for college applications and demonstrate your commitment to academic improvement.
If you feel unsure about committing to a traditional college experience, you could also consider community college as a stepping stone. Many community colleges offer excellent marketing programs and allow you to transfer credits to four-year universities later on, saving you money and offering a more flexible academic environment. By starting at a community college, you can refine your skills, improve your GPA, and explore different areas of marketing—whether digital marketing, international marketing, or another specialty—before committing to a larger institution.
Ultimately, your decision should align with your long-term goals and personal circumstances. If international travel and marketing are at the forefront of your career aspirations, it might be worthwhile to consider studying abroad, pursuing internships in different countries, or even seeking entry-level jobs with global companies that offer travel opportunities. The marketing field is dynamic, with ample opportunities for those willing to be proactive, adaptable, and persistent.
In sum, while college can be a great option, it’s not the only pathway to a successful career in marketing. Assess your options carefully, seek out experiences that align with your passions and goals, and don’t be afraid to take non-traditional routes if they feel more aligned with your aspirations. Whether through internships, certifications, community college, or entry-level work, there are numerous ways to build the skills and experience you need to thrive in the world of international marketing.
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Lumin
Charlie Jennings
Director of sales
23
Answers
Lexington, Kentucky
Updated
Charlie’s Answer
Lumin,
I love your career goal, it is within your grasp. Bigger goals are comprised of smaller goals or steps to help you climb the ladder to success, so make an outline of the smaller steps needed that will help you achieve your ultimate goal. Those steps could be interning in traditional media, getting a part time job at an ad agency, taking a course in sales, you WILL benefit from learning about the selling process in sales I promise you. I've written this before for another student, study digital marketing and learn all you can about traditional media like radio, TV, and print to make yourself knowledgeable about all media options. After selling advertising for traditional media for years I learned that representing an advertising agency is better because ad agencies represent all media and they can create more effective marketing strategies vs. being limited to one media. Every client is different and each has different marketing needs, one size doesn't fit all, meaning not one media is the best fit for all marketing strategies and the clients budget determines EVERYTHING! The larger the budget the more marketing options you have, smaller budgets limit your options. Confucius is believed to have said, "the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step." So take that first step on your journey to success.
I love your career goal, it is within your grasp. Bigger goals are comprised of smaller goals or steps to help you climb the ladder to success, so make an outline of the smaller steps needed that will help you achieve your ultimate goal. Those steps could be interning in traditional media, getting a part time job at an ad agency, taking a course in sales, you WILL benefit from learning about the selling process in sales I promise you. I've written this before for another student, study digital marketing and learn all you can about traditional media like radio, TV, and print to make yourself knowledgeable about all media options. After selling advertising for traditional media for years I learned that representing an advertising agency is better because ad agencies represent all media and they can create more effective marketing strategies vs. being limited to one media. Every client is different and each has different marketing needs, one size doesn't fit all, meaning not one media is the best fit for all marketing strategies and the clients budget determines EVERYTHING! The larger the budget the more marketing options you have, smaller budgets limit your options. Confucius is believed to have said, "the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step." So take that first step on your journey to success.
Thank you very much, I was thinking of focusing my career on digital marketing!
Lumin
Nicole Baillie
Data Analyst
504
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
Hi Lumin. Thanks for your honesty and this fantastic question!
In my experience, going to college can be about a lot more than just getting a job...but...let's start with getting a job :). Speaking in very general terms, starting a job, where you have a college degree, can put you at a better starting salary and more fulfilling types of work. It could also possibly allow you to have peers and bosses who have a different level of understanding on work effort and work ethic. This is not to say that you can't get to a good salary and have an awesome work environment without a college degree. It's just that it may take a bit longer for you to find that comfort spot.
Be mindful of believing what other people tell you about your capabilities. Really the only person that controls what you are "good enough" to do or where you can go to college..the only person that is in control of that..is you. In my experience, what makes a person "good enough" is their drive to be better. To, every day, think about ways to get stronger in a particular subject in school, and thinking about and then doing the steps to get better.
Whether it is in a job, in a high school class or in a college setting, there is always opportunity to improve. Taking the time to look for those opportunities for improvement may seem slow-going at first but, after a while, you will know what to look for and how to move forward to get better (grades, performance or whatever it is you seek to improve on). Give yourself the time you need to get focused on being better on one thing first. And don't be afraid to ask for help :) In the same way you got the courage to post your question here, you can raise questions to others. You may be surprised at the offerings of advice and support you could get from others who have achieved.
I wish you the best of luck. You will be awesome!!!
In my experience, going to college can be about a lot more than just getting a job...but...let's start with getting a job :). Speaking in very general terms, starting a job, where you have a college degree, can put you at a better starting salary and more fulfilling types of work. It could also possibly allow you to have peers and bosses who have a different level of understanding on work effort and work ethic. This is not to say that you can't get to a good salary and have an awesome work environment without a college degree. It's just that it may take a bit longer for you to find that comfort spot.
Be mindful of believing what other people tell you about your capabilities. Really the only person that controls what you are "good enough" to do or where you can go to college..the only person that is in control of that..is you. In my experience, what makes a person "good enough" is their drive to be better. To, every day, think about ways to get stronger in a particular subject in school, and thinking about and then doing the steps to get better.
Whether it is in a job, in a high school class or in a college setting, there is always opportunity to improve. Taking the time to look for those opportunities for improvement may seem slow-going at first but, after a while, you will know what to look for and how to move forward to get better (grades, performance or whatever it is you seek to improve on). Give yourself the time you need to get focused on being better on one thing first. And don't be afraid to ask for help :) In the same way you got the courage to post your question here, you can raise questions to others. You may be surprised at the offerings of advice and support you could get from others who have achieved.
I wish you the best of luck. You will be awesome!!!
Thank you so much for the advice!!
Lumin
Kristina Du
Enterprise Technology Solutions Associate at PwC
50
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Kristina’s Answer
Don’t stress too much—you still have options! Since you’re passionate about international marketing and traveling, college is definitely a great path, but it’s not the only one. If you still want to go to college, focus on improving your GPA during your senior year and looking into in-state universities, community colleges with transfer programs, or schools with flexible admission requirements. Many colleges will still consider your application if you show improvement and have strong essays and extracurriculars.
If college doesn’t feel like the right fit right now, you can also explore alternative paths like trade schools, online certifications in marketing (Google, HubSpot, etc.), or internships to gain experience first. Some companies even hire marketing assistants without degrees if you have strong skills, creativity, and experience.
Most importantly, don’t let one setback make you doubt your career dreams—there are multiple ways to reach your goal, and you can always adjust your path along the way!
If college doesn’t feel like the right fit right now, you can also explore alternative paths like trade schools, online certifications in marketing (Google, HubSpot, etc.), or internships to gain experience first. Some companies even hire marketing assistants without degrees if you have strong skills, creativity, and experience.
Most importantly, don’t let one setback make you doubt your career dreams—there are multiple ways to reach your goal, and you can always adjust your path along the way!
Thank you!! I was thinking about trying an online certification program over the summer.
Lumin
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1210
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Lumin!
Marketing, especially international marketing—is an exciting field with so many opportunities to travel and work with global brands. It’s completely normal to have second thoughts about college, but don’t let doubt hold you back just yet. There are many ways to reach your goal, and your current situation doesn’t define your future.
Your 3.2 GPA is not a dealbreaker for college. While some out-of-state schools may have higher requirements, many great universities accept students with a range of GPAs, especially if you show improvement, strong extracurricular involvement, and passion for your field. Plus, there are alternative paths like starting at a community college and then transferring to a four-year university, which can be a smart and affordable option.
The Algebra 2 credit issue might seem like a setback, but it’s something you can still work on. Colleges look at overall progress, and many schools offer ways to make up missing credits. If you’re struggling, why not consider tutoring, summer school, or an online course to help you catch up. Math is important in marketing (especially for analytics and finance-related roles), but don’t let one class make you feel like you can’t move forward.
If college doesn’t feel right for you, there are other ways to break into marketing. You could look into certifications, internships, or even entry-level jobs that help you gain real-world experience. Digital marketing, for example, is a field where hands-on experience and creativity often matter more than a degree. But if you’re passionate about international marketing, a college education can open doors, especially for roles in multinational companies.
The most important thing right now is to stay open to possibilities. Keep exploring marketing, gain experience where you can (even through small projects, social media, or local businesses), and don’t count yourself out because of GPA or one tough class. You have time to figure things out, and there’s always a way forward. Keep pushing, and you’ll find the right path for you!
Best wishes!
Marketing, especially international marketing—is an exciting field with so many opportunities to travel and work with global brands. It’s completely normal to have second thoughts about college, but don’t let doubt hold you back just yet. There are many ways to reach your goal, and your current situation doesn’t define your future.
Your 3.2 GPA is not a dealbreaker for college. While some out-of-state schools may have higher requirements, many great universities accept students with a range of GPAs, especially if you show improvement, strong extracurricular involvement, and passion for your field. Plus, there are alternative paths like starting at a community college and then transferring to a four-year university, which can be a smart and affordable option.
The Algebra 2 credit issue might seem like a setback, but it’s something you can still work on. Colleges look at overall progress, and many schools offer ways to make up missing credits. If you’re struggling, why not consider tutoring, summer school, or an online course to help you catch up. Math is important in marketing (especially for analytics and finance-related roles), but don’t let one class make you feel like you can’t move forward.
If college doesn’t feel right for you, there are other ways to break into marketing. You could look into certifications, internships, or even entry-level jobs that help you gain real-world experience. Digital marketing, for example, is a field where hands-on experience and creativity often matter more than a degree. But if you’re passionate about international marketing, a college education can open doors, especially for roles in multinational companies.
The most important thing right now is to stay open to possibilities. Keep exploring marketing, gain experience where you can (even through small projects, social media, or local businesses), and don’t count yourself out because of GPA or one tough class. You have time to figure things out, and there’s always a way forward. Keep pushing, and you’ll find the right path for you!
Best wishes!
Steve Gandola
Marketing
8
Answers
Rocklin
Updated
Steve’s Answer
It's fantastic that at your age you already have a career goal in mind. It's likely to morph over time, but it's important to be moving toward something. There are many paths to get there, but if you truly want to do international marketing, your struggles with math are worth overcoming. Marketing has become increasingly data-driven. Being comfortable with basic math will definitely be an advantage. Those who are in marketing with only creative skills find themselves significantly limited. Not saying you have to be a mathematician, but you should be able to work with numbers and you should be able to work with data in spreadsheets.
So if you've struggled with math, does that mean that you should change course? No. Here are some options:
1. Take the time to get help in math and have dogged persistence. Here is what I hear you saying in an interview years from now. "In high school I was really struggling with math. But I recognized how important data-driven marketing would be, so I got extra help and I worked my tail off until I was comfortable with numbers. That set me up for college, where I was able to excel in my more quantitative courses. And now I'm ready to make an impact in your international marketing department. I'm persistent, smart, and ready."
2. If the thought of tackling your math struggles feels overwhelming, you might pursue specific aspects of marketing that are less quantitative. These would include design (but you better make sure you're staying on top of AI) and event planning, writing, social media content creation.
3. Sales. Adjacent to marketing is sales. This path is not so reliant on data, but on relationship building. Especially in international business, you're not talking about pushy door-to-door sales or car-lot sales. It's likely more professional and likely more process selling. "Process selling" is slower, informational, relationship-oriented. You're getting in front of potential clients, assessing their needs, helping them see where your products/services can address their issues and working with them over time to make a sale. A sale might take months to make. In that time you're nurturing the relationship with touch points, information, continued assessment, and finding the right timing. Your establishing yourself as a subject matter expert that they can trust.
So the first thing to determine is whether or not you have the heart to tackle math. If so, that's your starting point. If not, start exploring the more specific aspects of marketing that don't lean into data.
Best of luck. Hope this was helpful.
So if you've struggled with math, does that mean that you should change course? No. Here are some options:
1. Take the time to get help in math and have dogged persistence. Here is what I hear you saying in an interview years from now. "In high school I was really struggling with math. But I recognized how important data-driven marketing would be, so I got extra help and I worked my tail off until I was comfortable with numbers. That set me up for college, where I was able to excel in my more quantitative courses. And now I'm ready to make an impact in your international marketing department. I'm persistent, smart, and ready."
2. If the thought of tackling your math struggles feels overwhelming, you might pursue specific aspects of marketing that are less quantitative. These would include design (but you better make sure you're staying on top of AI) and event planning, writing, social media content creation.
3. Sales. Adjacent to marketing is sales. This path is not so reliant on data, but on relationship building. Especially in international business, you're not talking about pushy door-to-door sales or car-lot sales. It's likely more professional and likely more process selling. "Process selling" is slower, informational, relationship-oriented. You're getting in front of potential clients, assessing their needs, helping them see where your products/services can address their issues and working with them over time to make a sale. A sale might take months to make. In that time you're nurturing the relationship with touch points, information, continued assessment, and finding the right timing. Your establishing yourself as a subject matter expert that they can trust.
So the first thing to determine is whether or not you have the heart to tackle math. If so, that's your starting point. If not, start exploring the more specific aspects of marketing that don't lean into data.
Best of luck. Hope this was helpful.
Broc Smith
Draw stuff
6
Answers
Mesa, Arizona
Updated
Broc’s Answer
Don't worry about the credentials; focus on gaining experience. Consider joining the Peace Corps or becoming an English teacher in China. There are so many opportunities to broaden your horizons. Traveling and living abroad will push you to grow and see the world in new ways.
Thank you for the advice!
Lumin