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Why is College important ?
I have been contemplating about pursuing higher education and have a lot of questions about college. I am curious about the application process, the different majors and programs offered, the types of financial aid available, the campus life, and the career prospects after graduation.
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Doc’s Answer
Larry college is an important part of many people’s lifetime. It is an experience unlike any other one could have. Overall, college is important because it provides invaluable experiences, you gain important, life-long connections, and you can get further in your career.
DISCOVER NEW INTERESTS
College tends to be a time full of discovery. It can signal the first time moving out or even living in a new place. College also provides the chance to discover your interests, within the classroom and beyond the classroom walls. Regardless of what you choose to major in, you’ll have to take some general education courses and electives. It’s in these classes that you may uncover an interest in a subject you had never before even thought of delving into. Unlike high school, you get to choose your classes in college, which can open the door to new findings. This may lead you to uncover interests and passions that you may have otherwise not known you had.
IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS
College courses teach an array of skills. In general, skills can be broken down into hard skills and soft skills. Hard skills are job-related and tend to be technical. To illustrate, if you want to be a web developer, then a hard skill you’ll need to learn would be how to code. On the other hand, there are soft skills that tend to be transferable between jobs and are life skills, too. These include problem-solving, communication, teamwork, etc. The college will teach you both types of skills. This is true for any type of college education, whether you choose to earn your degree in-person or online.
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
College aids in personal development. Students get to hone a wide set of skills and competencies through the college experience. College can foster feelings of independence and control, as well as teach what’s necessary to manage one’s own time and make reasoned decisions. These types of soft skills and abilities are must-haves when it comes to dealing with life in the real world.
BE INVOLVED
This point may be the most overhyped, but it’s still valid. Go to your school’s activities fair if they have one; otherwise, keep your eyes open for opportunities to join different clubs or teams. Joining a club or team can often provide a much-needed relief from your everyday classes or responsibilities, and it’s a great way to meet new people or to try something new! Many schools even have niche groups such as unicycle clubs, quidditch teams (of Harry Potter fame), and virtual reality clubs. If you don’t find a club that aligns with your interests, you can always start your own.
LIFELONG NETWORKING
Networking is something that can seem foreign for high school students (at least that’s how it felt for me). We go to college and are suddenly expected to know how to make professional contacts without any real training. To be successful at networking throughout college, you have to put yourself in settings where you’ll have the opportunity to meet professionals in the field you’re interested in. Look for local networking opportunities or events that are catered to the industry you’re in or the skills you’d like to master. For example, you might find an event that teaches individuals how to run for office, or a training on using LinkedIn to your advantage, or a class that helps you learn photography skills. All of these events will put you in contact with people who can help propel you into a career later in life.
Hope this was helpful Larry
DISCOVER NEW INTERESTS
College tends to be a time full of discovery. It can signal the first time moving out or even living in a new place. College also provides the chance to discover your interests, within the classroom and beyond the classroom walls. Regardless of what you choose to major in, you’ll have to take some general education courses and electives. It’s in these classes that you may uncover an interest in a subject you had never before even thought of delving into. Unlike high school, you get to choose your classes in college, which can open the door to new findings. This may lead you to uncover interests and passions that you may have otherwise not known you had.
IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS
College courses teach an array of skills. In general, skills can be broken down into hard skills and soft skills. Hard skills are job-related and tend to be technical. To illustrate, if you want to be a web developer, then a hard skill you’ll need to learn would be how to code. On the other hand, there are soft skills that tend to be transferable between jobs and are life skills, too. These include problem-solving, communication, teamwork, etc. The college will teach you both types of skills. This is true for any type of college education, whether you choose to earn your degree in-person or online.
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
College aids in personal development. Students get to hone a wide set of skills and competencies through the college experience. College can foster feelings of independence and control, as well as teach what’s necessary to manage one’s own time and make reasoned decisions. These types of soft skills and abilities are must-haves when it comes to dealing with life in the real world.
BE INVOLVED
This point may be the most overhyped, but it’s still valid. Go to your school’s activities fair if they have one; otherwise, keep your eyes open for opportunities to join different clubs or teams. Joining a club or team can often provide a much-needed relief from your everyday classes or responsibilities, and it’s a great way to meet new people or to try something new! Many schools even have niche groups such as unicycle clubs, quidditch teams (of Harry Potter fame), and virtual reality clubs. If you don’t find a club that aligns with your interests, you can always start your own.
LIFELONG NETWORKING
Networking is something that can seem foreign for high school students (at least that’s how it felt for me). We go to college and are suddenly expected to know how to make professional contacts without any real training. To be successful at networking throughout college, you have to put yourself in settings where you’ll have the opportunity to meet professionals in the field you’re interested in. Look for local networking opportunities or events that are catered to the industry you’re in or the skills you’d like to master. For example, you might find an event that teaches individuals how to run for office, or a training on using LinkedIn to your advantage, or a class that helps you learn photography skills. All of these events will put you in contact with people who can help propel you into a career later in life.
Hope this was helpful Larry
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. Have your thought about what careers you have interest. In fact, not all careers requires a college degree, it is better to acquire the skills in vocational skills, e.g. culinary, hair styling, make up, etc.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
E.g. If you like music, would you like to be a musician, musical artist, singer, music composer, music producer, etc.
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be accountant, banker, engineer, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 career you would like to pursue
5. Determine whether it is better to attend the college or vocational school to acquire the required qualification
6. Attend the information sessions host by college or vocational school on the application process and entry criteria
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc and identify the related careers
E.g. If you like music, would you like to be a musician, musical artist, singer, music composer, music producer, etc.
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be accountant, banker, engineer, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 career you would like to pursue
5. Determine whether it is better to attend the college or vocational school to acquire the required qualification
6. Attend the information sessions host by college or vocational school on the application process and entry criteria
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3767
Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Larry,
Why College is Important
Introduction College education is a significant milestone in many people’s lives, and its importance cannot be overstated. It provides individuals with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to succeed in their chosen careers and make meaningful contributions to society. The decision to pursue higher education is a pivotal one, and understanding the reasons why college is important can help individuals make informed choices about their future.
Academic and Intellectual Growth One of the primary reasons why college is important is the opportunity it provides for academic and intellectual growth. In a college environment, students are exposed to a wide range of subjects and disciplines, allowing them to explore their interests and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. Through rigorous coursework, critical thinking exercises, and research opportunities, students can expand their knowledge base and cultivate valuable analytical and problem-solving skills.
Career Opportunities Another compelling reason for the importance of college is the impact it has on career opportunities. In today’s competitive job market, a college degree is often a prerequisite for many professional positions. Employers value the specialized knowledge and expertise that college graduates bring to the table, making a degree an essential asset for those seeking meaningful employment. Additionally, college graduates tend to have higher earning potential over their lifetimes compared to those with only a high school diploma.
Personal Development College is not just about academic pursuits; it also plays a crucial role in personal development. The college experience offers numerous opportunities for students to grow as individuals, develop leadership skills, build social networks, and gain exposure to diverse perspectives. These experiences contribute to the holistic development of students, preparing them for the complexities of adult life and fostering qualities such as resilience, adaptability, and empathy.
Networking and Connections Attending college provides students with access to a vast network of peers, professors, alumni, and industry professionals. These connections can be invaluable in terms of career advancement, mentorship opportunities, and professional support. Building strong relationships during college can open doors to internships, job placements, and collaborative ventures that may not have been accessible otherwise.
Financial Aid and Scholarships Understanding the financial aspect of attending college is crucial for many prospective students. Fortunately, there are various types of financial aid available to help offset the costs of higher education. These include scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans. By leveraging these resources effectively, students can pursue their educational goals without being unduly burdened by financial constraints.
Campus Life The college experience extends beyond the classroom, encompassing campus life activities that contribute to personal growth and well-roundedness. From student organizations and cultural events to sports teams and volunteer opportunities, colleges offer a vibrant array of extracurricular activities that enrich students’ lives and create lasting memories.
Majors and Programs Colleges typically offer an extensive array of majors and programs tailored to diverse academic interests and career aspirations. Whether one’s passion lies in STEM fields, liberal arts, business, healthcare, or the arts, there are programs designed to nurture those interests and provide specialized training for future careers.
Career Prospects After Graduation The ultimate goal of pursuing higher education is often to secure rewarding career prospects after graduation. College equips students with the knowledge base, skills, credentials, and professional networks needed to enter their desired fields with confidence. Furthermore, many colleges offer career services that assist students in resume building, interview preparation, job search strategies, and networking opportunities.
In conclusion, college is important for numerous reasons including academic growth, career opportunities, personal development, networking connections financial aid availability campus life majors programs offered career prospects after graduation
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
The U.S. Department of Education: This source provides comprehensive information on federal student aid programs as well as valuable resources related to higher education policies and initiatives.
The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES): NCES offers authoritative data on various aspects of education in the United States including enrollment trends, graduation rates by institution type or major field of study.
The Association of American Colleges & Universities (AAC&U): AAC&U is a leading organization dedicated to advancing the quality of undergraduate education through research-backed initiatives focused on liberal education outcomes.
These sources were instrumental in providing accurate information on the importance of college education as well as insights into various aspects such as financial aid availability campus life majors programs offered career prospects after graduation.
Don't forget to read my autobiography, "About James Constantine," "What I Do At Work," paying close attention to the foods that provide all the essential nutrients for effective performance studying. These are brain nutrients, like the amino acids, to function adequately, the central nervous system (CNS) requires several amino acids found in protein foods.
Amino acids such as tryptophan, tyrosine, histidine, and arginine are used by the brain for the synthesis of various neurotransmitters and neuromodulators. The B complex vitamins, Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Adenine, Pantothenic Acid, Pyridoxine, Cyanocobalamin, Folate, Inositol, Choline, and the minerals magnesium and zinc are essential.
Sugar is not required.
Fish and cod liver oil will crown it off nicely. Docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid are essential for neurons in the brain. Do it justice; You are divine never forget that! We need to make series three prostaglandins which are anti-inflammatory.
You might discover that you can accomplish twice as much academic work in half the time. Your energy is massive and your performance in exams and assignments will also impress the academe. You will improve significantly, especially if your diet is repleted. Replenishing missing nutrients can do wonders. So can high distinctions! It is metabolic and medical biochemistry!
GOD BLESS YOU RICHLY, AMEN,
James Constantine Frangos.
Why College is Important
Introduction College education is a significant milestone in many people’s lives, and its importance cannot be overstated. It provides individuals with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to succeed in their chosen careers and make meaningful contributions to society. The decision to pursue higher education is a pivotal one, and understanding the reasons why college is important can help individuals make informed choices about their future.
Academic and Intellectual Growth One of the primary reasons why college is important is the opportunity it provides for academic and intellectual growth. In a college environment, students are exposed to a wide range of subjects and disciplines, allowing them to explore their interests and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. Through rigorous coursework, critical thinking exercises, and research opportunities, students can expand their knowledge base and cultivate valuable analytical and problem-solving skills.
Career Opportunities Another compelling reason for the importance of college is the impact it has on career opportunities. In today’s competitive job market, a college degree is often a prerequisite for many professional positions. Employers value the specialized knowledge and expertise that college graduates bring to the table, making a degree an essential asset for those seeking meaningful employment. Additionally, college graduates tend to have higher earning potential over their lifetimes compared to those with only a high school diploma.
Personal Development College is not just about academic pursuits; it also plays a crucial role in personal development. The college experience offers numerous opportunities for students to grow as individuals, develop leadership skills, build social networks, and gain exposure to diverse perspectives. These experiences contribute to the holistic development of students, preparing them for the complexities of adult life and fostering qualities such as resilience, adaptability, and empathy.
Networking and Connections Attending college provides students with access to a vast network of peers, professors, alumni, and industry professionals. These connections can be invaluable in terms of career advancement, mentorship opportunities, and professional support. Building strong relationships during college can open doors to internships, job placements, and collaborative ventures that may not have been accessible otherwise.
Financial Aid and Scholarships Understanding the financial aspect of attending college is crucial for many prospective students. Fortunately, there are various types of financial aid available to help offset the costs of higher education. These include scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and student loans. By leveraging these resources effectively, students can pursue their educational goals without being unduly burdened by financial constraints.
Campus Life The college experience extends beyond the classroom, encompassing campus life activities that contribute to personal growth and well-roundedness. From student organizations and cultural events to sports teams and volunteer opportunities, colleges offer a vibrant array of extracurricular activities that enrich students’ lives and create lasting memories.
Majors and Programs Colleges typically offer an extensive array of majors and programs tailored to diverse academic interests and career aspirations. Whether one’s passion lies in STEM fields, liberal arts, business, healthcare, or the arts, there are programs designed to nurture those interests and provide specialized training for future careers.
Career Prospects After Graduation The ultimate goal of pursuing higher education is often to secure rewarding career prospects after graduation. College equips students with the knowledge base, skills, credentials, and professional networks needed to enter their desired fields with confidence. Furthermore, many colleges offer career services that assist students in resume building, interview preparation, job search strategies, and networking opportunities.
In conclusion, college is important for numerous reasons including academic growth, career opportunities, personal development, networking connections financial aid availability campus life majors programs offered career prospects after graduation
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
The U.S. Department of Education: This source provides comprehensive information on federal student aid programs as well as valuable resources related to higher education policies and initiatives.
The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES): NCES offers authoritative data on various aspects of education in the United States including enrollment trends, graduation rates by institution type or major field of study.
The Association of American Colleges & Universities (AAC&U): AAC&U is a leading organization dedicated to advancing the quality of undergraduate education through research-backed initiatives focused on liberal education outcomes.
These sources were instrumental in providing accurate information on the importance of college education as well as insights into various aspects such as financial aid availability campus life majors programs offered career prospects after graduation.
Don't forget to read my autobiography, "About James Constantine," "What I Do At Work," paying close attention to the foods that provide all the essential nutrients for effective performance studying. These are brain nutrients, like the amino acids, to function adequately, the central nervous system (CNS) requires several amino acids found in protein foods.
Amino acids such as tryptophan, tyrosine, histidine, and arginine are used by the brain for the synthesis of various neurotransmitters and neuromodulators. The B complex vitamins, Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Adenine, Pantothenic Acid, Pyridoxine, Cyanocobalamin, Folate, Inositol, Choline, and the minerals magnesium and zinc are essential.
Sugar is not required.
Fish and cod liver oil will crown it off nicely. Docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid are essential for neurons in the brain. Do it justice; You are divine never forget that! We need to make series three prostaglandins which are anti-inflammatory.
You might discover that you can accomplish twice as much academic work in half the time. Your energy is massive and your performance in exams and assignments will also impress the academe. You will improve significantly, especially if your diet is repleted. Replenishing missing nutrients can do wonders. So can high distinctions! It is metabolic and medical biochemistry!
GOD BLESS YOU RICHLY, AMEN,
James Constantine Frangos.
Updated
Julian’s Answer
Hi Larry,
Attending college is important for several reasons, and one of the key aspects is the unique innovative environment it provides. Colleges are hubs of knowledge, research, and cutting-edge ideas. They offer a diverse range of academic programs and access to expert faculty who are at the forefront of their fields. This environment fosters intellectual curiosity, encourages critical thinking, and exposes students to new perspectives and ideas. It provides a platform for innovation and allows students to explore their passions, develop their skills, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge.
Moreover, college offers a vibrant student life that is unparalleled. It is a time of personal growth, self-discovery, and building lifelong friendships. Students have the opportunity to engage in extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that align with their interests and values. These experiences not only enhance social connections but also provide valuable leadership, teamwork, and communication skills. The diverse student body brings together individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, creating a rich and dynamic community that fosters personal and cultural growth.
Overall, attending college is important because it provides a unique and innovative environment that fosters intellectual growth, personal development, and inspiration. It offers a platform for students to explore their interests, engage in diverse experiences, and develop the skills necessary for success in their chosen fields. College is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about shaping individuals into well-rounded, innovative, and inspired individuals ready to make a positive impact on the world.
Best,
Julian
Attending college is important for several reasons, and one of the key aspects is the unique innovative environment it provides. Colleges are hubs of knowledge, research, and cutting-edge ideas. They offer a diverse range of academic programs and access to expert faculty who are at the forefront of their fields. This environment fosters intellectual curiosity, encourages critical thinking, and exposes students to new perspectives and ideas. It provides a platform for innovation and allows students to explore their passions, develop their skills, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge.
Moreover, college offers a vibrant student life that is unparalleled. It is a time of personal growth, self-discovery, and building lifelong friendships. Students have the opportunity to engage in extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that align with their interests and values. These experiences not only enhance social connections but also provide valuable leadership, teamwork, and communication skills. The diverse student body brings together individuals from various backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, creating a rich and dynamic community that fosters personal and cultural growth.
Overall, attending college is important because it provides a unique and innovative environment that fosters intellectual growth, personal development, and inspiration. It offers a platform for students to explore their interests, engage in diverse experiences, and develop the skills necessary for success in their chosen fields. College is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about shaping individuals into well-rounded, innovative, and inspired individuals ready to make a positive impact on the world.
Best,
Julian
Updated
Ana’s Answer
Hi Larry!
Knowledge is power. You should always be learning for personal growth and development. The more you know the more you don’t know.
Education allows you to evolve and learn new ways of dealing with things and people. College will give you maturity, deal with difficult decous, different subjects that you need to lean fast. Having a structured environment is good. College is hard, you learn responsibility quality life skills.
Professionally, companies are are looking for skilled people. Going to college will allow you to unlock new level of opportunities. You have access to a networks. Networking is powerful. Universities recruit, and it’s easier to get a job when you know someone in the network, rather than joining the job market without guidance.
Knowledge is power. You should always be learning for personal growth and development. The more you know the more you don’t know.
Education allows you to evolve and learn new ways of dealing with things and people. College will give you maturity, deal with difficult decous, different subjects that you need to lean fast. Having a structured environment is good. College is hard, you learn responsibility quality life skills.
Professionally, companies are are looking for skilled people. Going to college will allow you to unlock new level of opportunities. You have access to a networks. Networking is powerful. Universities recruit, and it’s easier to get a job when you know someone in the network, rather than joining the job market without guidance.
Updated
Mahi’s Answer
Education and Knowledge: College provides an opportunity for in-depth learning in a specific field of study. It equips individuals with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities necessary for their chosen professions.
Career Opportunities: Many professions and career paths require a college degree as a minimum qualification. Having a degree can open doors to a wider range of job opportunities and increase the likelihood of career advancement.
Specialized Training: College allows individuals to receive specialized training in a particular area of interest. This expertise can make them more competitive in the job market and increase their chances of success in their chosen field.
Personal Development: College is not just about academics; it's also a time for personal growth. Students often develop important life skills such as time management, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork, which are valuable in both personal and professional settings.
Networking and Connections: College provides a platform for networking and building connections with professors, fellow students, and professionals in the field. Networking can be crucial for finding internships, job opportunities, and mentorship.
Increased Earning Potential: On average, individuals with a college degree tend to earn higher salaries than those without. While this may not hold true for every individual or every field, statistically, higher levels of education are often associated with increased earning potential.
Personal Fulfillment: For many people, the pursuit of higher education is a fulfilling and enriching experience. It allows individuals to explore their interests, engage in intellectual pursuits, and contribute to their personal and intellectual growth.
Adaptability: College education can enhance adaptability and flexibility in facing new challenges. It helps individuals develop a broad understanding of various subjects and prepares them for a rapidly changing job market.
Global Perspective: College often exposes students to a diverse range of people, ideas, and cultures. This can contribute to a broader perspective, cultural understanding, and a more inclusive worldview.
It's important to note that while college can offer numerous benefits, it may not be the best path for everyone. Alternative pathways, such as vocational training, apprenticeships, or entrepreneurship, can also lead to successful and fulfilling careers. The decision to pursue college should be based on individual goals, preferences, and circumstances.
Career Opportunities: Many professions and career paths require a college degree as a minimum qualification. Having a degree can open doors to a wider range of job opportunities and increase the likelihood of career advancement.
Specialized Training: College allows individuals to receive specialized training in a particular area of interest. This expertise can make them more competitive in the job market and increase their chances of success in their chosen field.
Personal Development: College is not just about academics; it's also a time for personal growth. Students often develop important life skills such as time management, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork, which are valuable in both personal and professional settings.
Networking and Connections: College provides a platform for networking and building connections with professors, fellow students, and professionals in the field. Networking can be crucial for finding internships, job opportunities, and mentorship.
Increased Earning Potential: On average, individuals with a college degree tend to earn higher salaries than those without. While this may not hold true for every individual or every field, statistically, higher levels of education are often associated with increased earning potential.
Personal Fulfillment: For many people, the pursuit of higher education is a fulfilling and enriching experience. It allows individuals to explore their interests, engage in intellectual pursuits, and contribute to their personal and intellectual growth.
Adaptability: College education can enhance adaptability and flexibility in facing new challenges. It helps individuals develop a broad understanding of various subjects and prepares them for a rapidly changing job market.
Global Perspective: College often exposes students to a diverse range of people, ideas, and cultures. This can contribute to a broader perspective, cultural understanding, and a more inclusive worldview.
It's important to note that while college can offer numerous benefits, it may not be the best path for everyone. Alternative pathways, such as vocational training, apprenticeships, or entrepreneurship, can also lead to successful and fulfilling careers. The decision to pursue college should be based on individual goals, preferences, and circumstances.
Updated
Mei’s Answer
Hello Larry. College is important because a college degree gives you more options and opens more doors for you.
What you do with your degree once you have it is all up to you but it is definitely a good starting point.
I have friends who are in careers completely different from their college degrees. There are also those in careers where a college degree is not required (and yet they have one). I also have friends who did not go to college or went but did not finish their degrees. There are those who are in the same field now as what they studied in college. I studied Psychology in college, Industrial Relations post graduate, and I'm now in consulting. Whenever we get together one thing is clear, our college degrees have have given us more options as we decide what we want to do with our lives.
On the application process, programs, financial aid, etc that will depend on where you plan to study. I see that you're based in the US and I am in the Philippines so I am not in a position to give you advice on that. I can share the following though, which is applicable regardless of where you're located -- surround yourself with friends who will really help you study. Cultivate relationships with people who can be your moral compass and who share the same goals and values as you. When the going gets tough, they can be your source of wisdom, strength and inspiration.
All the best Larry!
What you do with your degree once you have it is all up to you but it is definitely a good starting point.
I have friends who are in careers completely different from their college degrees. There are also those in careers where a college degree is not required (and yet they have one). I also have friends who did not go to college or went but did not finish their degrees. There are those who are in the same field now as what they studied in college. I studied Psychology in college, Industrial Relations post graduate, and I'm now in consulting. Whenever we get together one thing is clear, our college degrees have have given us more options as we decide what we want to do with our lives.
On the application process, programs, financial aid, etc that will depend on where you plan to study. I see that you're based in the US and I am in the Philippines so I am not in a position to give you advice on that. I can share the following though, which is applicable regardless of where you're located -- surround yourself with friends who will really help you study. Cultivate relationships with people who can be your moral compass and who share the same goals and values as you. When the going gets tough, they can be your source of wisdom, strength and inspiration.
All the best Larry!
Updated
Michel’s Answer
Growing up I asked myself this question a lot of times. I used to think why is more education important, when I can just work in the military the rest of my life. The short of it is education is what you make it. If you are okay with work experience and working up a ladder that is great, but some jobs will want you to get education. I was working in a warehouse for a few years and once you hit a certain point you need at least an associates and once you get a bit higher they want a bachelors. It is the beast of the game and this is not every job. I went back to college after the military and fell in love with gaining new knowledge and discovering things in the world that I had never paid attention to before. College is for some people and not for others you have to choose the path that makes you happy.