31 answers
Alexandria
Student
1
Question
31 answers
Tony Rosselli
Sales
9
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Tony’s Answer
My guess is you are somewhere between the age of 14 and 21. So I will provide an answer based on this assumption. Statically, having a college degree will allow you to earn at least $1M more in your lifetime than someone who does not attend. However, that is a statistic. and we all know how we feel about statistics.
#1 You don't have to have it 'all figured out' just yet. You're young, and you have at least 40 years of work ahead of you. You don't have to pick a career that you will work until you retire.
#2 College is needed for some professions (lawyer, doctor, accountant), but not all. Consider the Trades (electrician, carpenter, auto mechanic) which requires you to attend trade school, which is different than college. Trades make very good money today - auto mechanics out of school start at $100K+ as their first job.
Ask yourself what drives you? What gets you excited? and take those thoughts and feelings and see if your can be successful with or without college. Have this drive your answer of whether college is needed for what your passionate about.
#1 You don't have to have it 'all figured out' just yet. You're young, and you have at least 40 years of work ahead of you. You don't have to pick a career that you will work until you retire.
#2 College is needed for some professions (lawyer, doctor, accountant), but not all. Consider the Trades (electrician, carpenter, auto mechanic) which requires you to attend trade school, which is different than college. Trades make very good money today - auto mechanics out of school start at $100K+ as their first job.
Ask yourself what drives you? What gets you excited? and take those thoughts and feelings and see if your can be successful with or without college. Have this drive your answer of whether college is needed for what your passionate about.
Rachel Knapp
Project Manager
22
Answers
Durham, North Carolina
Updated
Rachel’s Answer
That all depends on what you want to do in the future. A lot of things can be learned from experience but then a lot of really technical knowledge is better gleamed in the classroom (if that's how you best learn). College is definitely NOT the only path for people. So often we overlook careers in fields such as electricians, ac repair, and other such things. These jobs can be very rewarding if you find it is something you enjoy doing and get fulfillment out of it. There are more paths beyond high school to consider too, like the military. Determining what's next can be really daunting, but I think it helps to think that there are so many jobs out there and many paths to take to get there. So think about what you want for your future and do some research on how to get there. And don't be afraid to try and fail. It's better to have tried it out than think what if? Good luck!
I would agree. I recently encouraged my son to attend community college to explore the courses and participate in the college experience. It was a great way to explore topics in different fields without a big commitment. He didn't like all of them, but some of them made him consider what he liked. It was a great way to think about whether he really wanted to do.
Elizabeth (Betsy) Kvedar, CPTD®
Rosa Alaia
Storage Sales
7
Answers
Dallas, Georgia
Updated
Rosa’s Answer
Education holds great significance, but not every profession necessitates attending college. Keep in mind that college may not be the ideal path for everyone. It's beneficial to take some time to explore various career options and determine what truly interests you. You might discover that your preferred line of work doesn't require a college degree. Consider pursuing online courses and obtaining certifications as an alternative way to enhance your skills.
Ted Chang
Consultant
2
Answers
Irvine, California
Updated
Ted’s Answer
It depends on what you want to do in the future. I always encourage my kids to find their own way, know their passions, and how they can live comfortably. I encourage entrepreneurship. And always have a side hustle.
Talk to someone today that you want to be like in the future
Ted recommends the following next steps:
Oscar Trejo
Accountant
7
Answers
Idaho Falls, Idaho
Updated
Oscar’s Answer
It varies. Should you aspire to be a doctor or lawyer, attending college is essential. Nevertheless, college isn't the right choice for everyone, so don't stress about going if it doesn't suit you. Begin by determining your desired career path, and then assess whether it's possible to achieve it without a college education.
Judy Winston
Risk Assurance
5
Answers
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Updated
Judy’s Answer
Depends on who you ask. There's more to college than an education. In my opinion, you create and build brother/sisterhood that is invaluable. This is also a starting point in connecting yourself to a network of likeminded individuals that will become beneficial in your career.
Gaurav Jain
Tax Accountant
1
Answer
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Gaurav’s Answer
Does it matter? I would say YES as this will be a first formal step taking towards the goal you are envisioning which can be viewed by other and quantifiable.
Jordyn Johnstone
IT Auditor
2
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
Jordyn’s Answer
The answer to does college matter honestly depends on your future goals and aspirations in life.
In short - it only matters if it matters to YOU! College is not necessary to succeed in life, but it is necessary to obtain certain careers and certifications. You cannot become a doctor, a lawyer, or even an accountant without attending college. However, there are plenty of companies that provide you on the job training and have ways for you to move up internally in the company. There are many skills in life in which a formal college education is not necessary, but it will certainly help.
I think when you start to think about does it matter, and is it worth it, you have to first determine why would you be going to college anyways. Is it because it seems that's what everyone does? or is it because you have a specific profession in mind that you would like to obtain one day? Either way, the cost of college continues to increase, and there are many options from public to private, state school to community college, the list is endless. Each college offers different degrees, experiences, pricing, and opportunities.
I personally very much benefitted from attending college. I decided I wanted to enter to world of accounting after taking an introduction to accounting course in high school. Not only did I end up loving it, but I realized I was really good at it. I did my research and knew one day I wanted to become a licenses certified public accountant (CPA), and in order to do so, I needed to have 150 college credit hours, so college did matter a lot if I wanted to truly pursue this career. I also knew I wanted certain experiences in college outside of just my degree - I wanted to continue my athletic career and I wanted social and networking opportunities. I also knew I didn't want to be too far from home. I did my research, applied to a few schools, and ultimately decided on a private D2 university close to home. I was able to not only continue my athletic career, but I became a two time national champion, had the opportunity to found a sorority, and obtained not only a degree in accounting, but a second degree in Spanish, as well as a minor in Fashion Design.
So, to me personally, yes college was worth it. BUT, college was only worth it because I myself made it worth it. You can find ways to make life worth it without going to college, just as someone could attend college without getting the end results they are looking for and therefore may think it wasn't worth it.
College is just like life, you get out of it what you put into it. So, if you make college worth it, it will end up worth it for you, but if you find value in other things, college is not the end all be all, and you certainly do not have to go to form your own path in life!
In short - it only matters if it matters to YOU! College is not necessary to succeed in life, but it is necessary to obtain certain careers and certifications. You cannot become a doctor, a lawyer, or even an accountant without attending college. However, there are plenty of companies that provide you on the job training and have ways for you to move up internally in the company. There are many skills in life in which a formal college education is not necessary, but it will certainly help.
I think when you start to think about does it matter, and is it worth it, you have to first determine why would you be going to college anyways. Is it because it seems that's what everyone does? or is it because you have a specific profession in mind that you would like to obtain one day? Either way, the cost of college continues to increase, and there are many options from public to private, state school to community college, the list is endless. Each college offers different degrees, experiences, pricing, and opportunities.
I personally very much benefitted from attending college. I decided I wanted to enter to world of accounting after taking an introduction to accounting course in high school. Not only did I end up loving it, but I realized I was really good at it. I did my research and knew one day I wanted to become a licenses certified public accountant (CPA), and in order to do so, I needed to have 150 college credit hours, so college did matter a lot if I wanted to truly pursue this career. I also knew I wanted certain experiences in college outside of just my degree - I wanted to continue my athletic career and I wanted social and networking opportunities. I also knew I didn't want to be too far from home. I did my research, applied to a few schools, and ultimately decided on a private D2 university close to home. I was able to not only continue my athletic career, but I became a two time national champion, had the opportunity to found a sorority, and obtained not only a degree in accounting, but a second degree in Spanish, as well as a minor in Fashion Design.
So, to me personally, yes college was worth it. BUT, college was only worth it because I myself made it worth it. You can find ways to make life worth it without going to college, just as someone could attend college without getting the end results they are looking for and therefore may think it wasn't worth it.
College is just like life, you get out of it what you put into it. So, if you make college worth it, it will end up worth it for you, but if you find value in other things, college is not the end all be all, and you certainly do not have to go to form your own path in life!
Marlene H
Consultant
3
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Marlene’s Answer
College plays a significant role based on your desired career path. For those pursuing traditional routes, it is strongly advised. To advance to managerial or higher-level roles, obtaining a degree is essential.
Lindsey Jaeggi
Senior Recruiting Operations Analyst
6
Answers
DeForest, Wisconsin
Updated
Lindsey’s Answer
Hi there! As a recruiter, it can really depend on the job you are interested in, the company you are applying for, etc. Trade schools can be incredibly valuable and are in very high demand currently. It may also be worthwhile to start out at a tech/trade school for two years and then transfer to a college.
Personally, I found college to be extremely rewarding and helped me find a niche career that combines data and recruiting. However, I know others who went to a trade school/started a job right out of college and love their jobs and have successful careers.
Long story short, it comes down to what field you are interested in!
Personally, I found college to be extremely rewarding and helped me find a niche career that combines data and recruiting. However, I know others who went to a trade school/started a job right out of college and love their jobs and have successful careers.
Long story short, it comes down to what field you are interested in!
Kuldeep Joshi
Engineer
2
Answers
Roseville, California
Updated
Kuldeep’s Answer
Absolutely, a top-notch school will aid you in honing your social, conversational, and teamwork abilities.
Victoria Baptiste
Senior Strategy Consultant
2
Answers
Arlington, Virginia
Updated
Victoria’s Answer
Deciding to go to college is a major choice with long-lasting effects. There's no universal answer to whether college is worth it, but here are some general tips to help you decide:
1. Identify your career goals: Consider the career(s) you truly want to follow. Do you aim for fields like teaching, law, or medicine? These careers might not only need college education but also specific certifications and degrees. For some jobs, college is essential to gain all the necessary knowledge.
2. Learn about industry requirements: Once you know your desired career(s), research the industries and companies that interest you. This gives you a better understanding of the requirements for the positions you want. Many will need a degree, but some won't.
3. Explore non-college options: Remember, college isn't the only way to gain valuable skills for various industries. There are many ways to learn, such as apprenticeships, vocational training, internships, or even informal methods like online courses or self-study.
1. Identify your career goals: Consider the career(s) you truly want to follow. Do you aim for fields like teaching, law, or medicine? These careers might not only need college education but also specific certifications and degrees. For some jobs, college is essential to gain all the necessary knowledge.
2. Learn about industry requirements: Once you know your desired career(s), research the industries and companies that interest you. This gives you a better understanding of the requirements for the positions you want. Many will need a degree, but some won't.
3. Explore non-college options: Remember, college isn't the only way to gain valuable skills for various industries. There are many ways to learn, such as apprenticeships, vocational training, internships, or even informal methods like online courses or self-study.
I would agree with Victoria. School can be very beneficial but depending on what you want to do long term, it might not financially make sense. Also, think about your learning style too and how you best like to be taught. Some people thrive in a school environment while others might need more hands-on training that college might not provide.
Juli Garn
Caleb Pan
Data Scientist
1
Answer
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Caleb’s Answer
Your future goals will guide you in choosing the right path. Some careers can be best pursued through trade schools, vocational schools, and the like. Apprenticeships are also a popular option in many fields. Make sure to research the careers that interest you and find out the usual education requirements. Remember, college is a significant investment of time and money, so it's essential to determine if it's worth it (think about the return on investment for a degree). Keep exploring your options, and you'll find the best path for your future success!
Bea Elbert
Sales Executive
5
Answers
Peoria, Illinois
Updated
Bea’s Answer
Hello Alexandria! College allows you to strengthen your abilities in a particular field or major while also broadening your range of skills by exploring classes and subjects beyond your main focus. In this sense, obtaining a college degree serves as a crucial milestone in your overall career advancement.
However, if you have a specific career path or interest in mind, there are several practical alternatives to college, such as technical schools, trade/craft schools, online education, and certification programs. Nowadays, employers' perspectives are shifting when it comes to the necessity of a college degree.
If you have several targeted career interest areas, do a little research to see how others in that field were able to enter that field either through experience, college degreee or other technical certifications
However, if you have a specific career path or interest in mind, there are several practical alternatives to college, such as technical schools, trade/craft schools, online education, and certification programs. Nowadays, employers' perspectives are shifting when it comes to the necessity of a college degree.
Bea recommends the following next steps:
Bhumika Bhardwaj
Application Developer
6
Answers
India
Updated
Bhumika’s Answer
Definitely, it's important.
School offers a supportive environment for learning, personal growth, and building a successful career. You can also network and form relationships with others who can assist you in progressing professionally. Schools supply endless resources and guidance for your benefit.
School offers a supportive environment for learning, personal growth, and building a successful career. You can also network and form relationships with others who can assist you in progressing professionally. Schools supply endless resources and guidance for your benefit.
Lesly Beltran
EMT and Medical Assistant
103
Answers
West Palm Beach, Florida
Updated
Lesly’s Answer
Hello! You certainly don't have to attend college to achieve a high income. Numerous successful individuals never went to college, and there are many well-paying sectors that gladly accept those without a college degree. Take tech start-ups, for instance, where your abilities and potential might be more appealing than having a diploma.
Sheryl Muralidhar
Agile Coach
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Sheryl’s Answer
A college education is highly suggested and offers many benefits. It helps you sharpen your abilities, learn new skills, and typically supports a steady flow of money in a field that needs training and expertise. However, there are also plenty of other paths people choose that don't require formal education. To make the best decision, think about your dreams and career goals.
Lauren Eidson, CIA
Risk and Assurance Manager
3
Answers
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