Dear recent high school graduates and upcoming seniors,
First off, congratulations, y'all. Will you be attending college in the fall? Juniors, are you planning on applying? If your answer is no, that's totally okay! You know why?
College isn't for everyone.
And there is nothing wrong with that. I know I might sound hypocritical because I'll be graduating in May of 2017, but I've seen so many people fall apart in college, so I'm here to explain to you why it's okay for you to decide you don't want to go.
Now don't get me wrong, I'm not bashing the idea of college. I think it's a good opportunity, but some people just can't handle it. But don't worry, there are a lot of other options available to you if you really hate school. Internships, apprenticeships, or you could go to a trade school instead. As an attendee of a liberal arts college, I can tell you that sometimes I contemplate whether or not going to college was a good idea.
College is nothing like high school.
Waking up early enough to make your 8 a.m. is nearly impossible. You thought waking up for high school was hard? You have no idea. You didn't do your assignment? Sucks to be you. Professors won't give you until tomorrow to hand it in, and seriously what even is half credit? Sleep is a thing of the past, and the work is 10 times harder.
I'm not trying to deter you from going to college.
I think it's a great opportunity and whatnot, but like I said, it's not 100% needed. Most times learning a trade is more valuable than spending a million hours (and dollars) at a four year college. If you want to earn some type of degree but don't really know what you want to do yet, I suggest going to a two year college. Most community colleges offer just a liberal arts associate's degree (which is basically the "you finished your general education requirements so you're totally capable of doing adult things" degree). As if you weren't capable before..
Don't forget : ONLINE SCHOOLS ARE ALSO A THING.
If you don't want to go to a real life school and interact with real life people.. I don't blame you.. An alternative to this would be an online college. You can earn your degree from the comfort of your couch, bed, or wherever you feel comfortable.
In the end, this is your decision. Sometimes I love being at college. It gives you a sense of freedom, a slight taste of the real world, and an opportunity to get away from the town you're from (if you so choose; I'm glad I did). But, if you don't go to college, try to pick up a job somewhere. It'll really benefit you in the long run.
