I chose to go to college, but I know that's not everyone's decision right after high school and that's okay. I don't act like your decision is stupid so stop acting like mine is. Different circumstances call for different choices. I never thought anyone would act doubtful about someone attending college, yet that's exactly what has happened, multiple times. I've heard everything from "the student loans really aren't worth it" to "you should have started at a community college to save money." Whenever I hear these comments it doesn't change my opinion, it only makes me value yours less. I strongly believe in going for things that you believe you're meant to go for or what will make you happy.

Although college isn't my lifelong dream it's the choice I made, and I don't regret it, regardless of the student loans.

Yes, after four years I will be paying off the student loans for possibly another 10 years with a degree that will be with me for a lifetime. Hopefully, I'll also have a job lined up to help with that. It doesn't mean every dollar I make will always go toward my student loans.

The thing people don't understand about college is that I am getting educated about the field I want to enter. I am receiving something for the money I pay. Also, I am networking, meeting people who I can stay in touch with for the rest of my life after college.

I am taking away experiences of living away from home and bettering my time management. I know these are things you can also get without going to college, but this is the path I felt I needed to go on.

So, whether you are for college or against it, let's support each other's decision. I know you can be successful without going to college and I know you can be successful with a degree.

I wanted the education I could receive from college and I also wanted the adventures that went along with it.

You're not stupid for opting out of going for a degree right after high school and I'm not stupid for deciding to go for a degree either.