Some things in life are painfully overrated, like college, the newest iPhone, or even Katy Perry.
Do you have those family members who drill the idea of college into your head? Who constantly tell you that in order to get a job, be successful, or do something with your life, you need to have a degree? Unfortunately, since they are your family members, maybe even close family friends, you probably can’t say much back to them, but that’s what I’m here to do.
Contrary to popular belief, a college degree shows that you can start something and finish it, not that you have a greater IQ than a non-college graduate, or that the world owes you something. In reality, it means you can procrastinate homework assignments, sit through a couple of hours of class at one time, and drink enough caffeine to make it seem like you’re alert enough in class.
I am a firm believer in the idea that college isn’t for everyone. Now I know it seems ironic that yes, a girl who is going to earn a college degree is writing this article, but I will be the first to admit that I genuinely and completely have no idea what I am doing, or why I am doing it. I know that seems crazy to be spending money on something that doesn’t necessarily ensure me a “bright future,” but I guess I am clinging onto the fact that finishing an accomplishment might help me out in the job world (I can't be the only one).
Over the past 30 years, the cost of college has risen more than 1,000 percent, outpacing inflation at an increasingly growing rate. As the price of college continues to rise, it becomes extremely difficult, if not impossible, for people who graduate to get a decent return on their investment. That is why a lot of college graduates seem to have nothing to show for their degree -- surprise surprise, student debt got the best of them.
According to US Labor Department projections, 63 percent of all new jobs created between now and 2020 won’t requite a college degree. In fact, Forbes created a list of 20 surprisingly well-paid jobs that require just a high school diploma. Some of these include: administrative service managers ($79,540), electricians ($49,320) and insurance agents ($47,450). My point being, you don’t need to become a doctor or a lawyer to have a sense of purpose in your life. Taking time off, traveling the world, and deciding not to go to college can be just as rewarding as doing what everyone else does.
To be honest, I was always envious of those who graduate high school and plan to travel the world, do their own thing, and put college on the back burner. I didn’t have the guts to do any of that, so I played it safe by having my life for the next four years planned out for me in a state away from the familiar.
Although that isn’t the path everyone takes, I sincerely and wholeheartedly admire those who have the courage to not go to school, and with confidence know that their life will unfold just the way it is suppose to.
So, please…If you are someone who is convinced college is the right and only path for everyone, reconsider and open your mind to new possibilities. Being happy and healthy at the end of the day is what’s most important, not the amount of money you make or the name of the institution located on that flimsy, overly expensive piece of paper.
