Now that I'm 21 and have been in the "real world" for a few years, I have realized something. Society says your job title equals your worth. I fell prey to this, but I refuse to any longer. No one should be defined by one specific attribute. What makes us who we are, includes a multitude of different facets. It's misguided that someone who doesn't have money for college, but has the skills and knowledge for a certain area of expertise, can't get their foot in the door because they aren't "qualified." We shouldn't have to feel depressed waking up going to the same job that isn't letting us express our interests and talents.
What if the person who can't afford education, is the one who could cure cancer? When we get out of high school there is usually two reactions; pure excitement or dread and anxiety. The group that is excited are the ones whose parents have money for their education. The other group just doesn't know what to do because they believe they will only have dead end jobs that don't really amount to anything. The anxiety that is universal is extremely weighing. We run ourselves dry and think we are a loser because other people our age have degrees and "great" careers. I am here to tell you that having a degree is not what you are here on this Earth for. Yes, it's unfortunate that everyone can't get equal opportunities for higher education. Don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with getting a degree in something if that's your passion, but I feel like some of us just do that because we think we are supposed to. It's tough to make ends meet. I promise you that you will feel more fulfilled if you follow your passions and don't give up on your dreams. Do not feel like you are behind in life just because you aren't the CEO of a company or a doctor.
As a side note, kudos to stay at home moms, small business owners, and people who just will not give up on their passion. Be proud of what your occupation is. You are a hard worker who provides for yourself and your family. If you are doing that you are doing just fine. Don't be angry at yourself, envious of others, mad at the government and blame it on that. You are able to create your destiny. You are just as intelligent and capable as anyone else. Get out there, take internships, volunteer, write, read, take photos, teach yourself new skills, don't limit yourself because of lack of money. There are resources all around you. Go to your local library and immerse yourself in knowledge. You will thank yourself for it.
