First, let me clarify, I am not anti-education. I just don’t think you need a college degree to be smart, educated, or successful anymore. Twenty-plus years ago, when I was graduating from high school, college was a dream for the few and a surefire gateway to success. Being the first person in my family to go on to higher education, I had no idea what I was doing and I had zero help navigating it. I only knew I got a full ride to a local college so I said, I HAVE TO DO THIS. I figured it out. Looking back it was a major part of my success. This was pre-google, so it was all legwork. I do not regret going to school, I even have a master’s degree now. I just don’t think it is worth it anymore and I will not force my child to go to college.
Don’t get me wrong, if you are going to college for free, or cheap GO FOR IT. I think it is ridiculous that kids are signing up for $100k of debt to graduate and earn $40k. Make it make sense. My opinion is that college has become more of a brag about what school you can get into rather than what you are going to realistically get out of it. Unless you are going to be something like a lawyer, doctor, or engineer, you do not need college. Not to mention the out-of-state fees and the dorm/meal plan costs. I could just faint looking at those numbers.
Everything you can ever want to do is on the internet. Everything you want to learn is in a book. If you have the drive and desire, you can do it on your own. Two areas that I always push are tech and trades.
Jobs in tech care more about your practical experience and certifications than degrees. Unless you want to be a people manager, nobody cares. Trust me, you don’t want to be a people manager. The highest-paid individuals are at the cutting edge of technology, learning it on their own and getting certified. I have a friend who job hops constantly and he is always continuing his self-education. He is usually the smartest guy in the room because he takes the time to learn it on his own. Get a great laptop, download the software, buy a course, and do it yourself. I am a huge fan of udemy.com. Some of the courses cost as little as $14.99 and you can get hours of video instruction, slides, notes, and examples. You can find an entry-level job after you get your first certification. Keep taking courses, the next level certification then add work experience, and the sky is the limit. Not to mention the free training that is out there. Go to Explore Career Paths on Microsoft Learn | Microsoft Learn and see what piques your interest. All the information is there for you to start from zero. All it takes is the drive and determination to figure it out. It is not rocket science and you don’t need to be a math wiz or program to work in tech. If you have good reading comprehension and a positive attitude – YOU CAN!
If computers are not your thing, and you prefer to work with your hands, there is so much opportunity in the trades. Zero college debt is just the cherry on top. Electricians, plumbers, metal workers, glaziers, and carpenters are all in demand. College was pushed as the only way to success for so long, there will be a huge deficit for these skilled laborers as all the Boomers and older Gen X’ers retire. Not to mention the money you can save on your own home one day. Yes, these jobs do take a toll on your body. So you should have a plan to learn, become an expert then move into management or your own business. If you invest wisely from the start, you can also plan your exit with F.I.R.E. You have to do your research, see what your expected salary will be, what the job opportunities are in your area, and whether you can join a union. All of these will determine the best choice for you. And if you learn a combinations of skills… PHEW. Watch out!
If you made it this far and think I am crazy, that’s fine. College is not a bad thing. Just don’t get a degree in basket weaving at an out-of-state school, pay $250k for it, and then cry when you can’t make ends meet. Choose your major with your eyes wide open. Know what your expected salary will be and research where you could work/could do with that degree. I am sure some people will get mad at me and say that you should follow your passion or that the world needs social workers. Nobody is stopping you. Just know what you are choosing and the life you will or will not be able to have as a result. There are plenty of people working as baristas with two degrees. I’m just sayin…
What’s your opinion? Did college work out for you? Would you recommend it to your (future) children? What did you major in and are you using that degree? Let me know in the comments.
Signed, Your Meanest Best Friend
