College has always been considered the traditional and correct path to success, but in the past few years, alternatives like trade schools, the military, apprenticeships, entrepreneurship, and self-education are becoming more common and are proving to be just as valuable𑁋 if not more – than school.
According to Judy D. Olian in the article, Can Young People Afford to Not Go to College; the cost of college has skyrocketed with the average cost for attending a bachelor’s degree program being $9,800 at a public institution and $40,700 at a private nonprofit institution not including living expenses, books, fees, etc. Most graduates leave school with over thousands in student loan debt, which can take decades to repay, limiting financial freedom and delaying major life milestones like buying a home or a car. Alternative paths allow individuals to save that money, have an income earlier, and invest for their future sooner, allowing them to grow their wealth earlier.
Instead of spending years in school and accumulating years worth of debt, many are opting for skill-based paths that lead directly to stable and profitable careers including things like trades, military, apprenticeships, and entrepreneurship.
Trade schools offer hands-on training in essential fields like plumbing, electrical work, and welding, which are jobs that are always necessary and in demand. These sorts of jobs often pay well without requiring years of schooling or debt.
The military offers structured career paths, good pay, benefits, and paid education through the G.I. Bill to obtain some sort of degree without the debt, along with discipline and personal growth.
Apprenticeships combine paid work with an education, giving people the opportunity to acquire an education with pay while also obtaining real-world experience that correlates directly into securing a job.
Entrepreneurship allows individuals to control their income, lifestyle, and overall direction in life. Through self-education on online platforms people can learn skills like coding, digital marketing, graphic design, etc. These platforms often offer certifications and are significantly more affordable and flexible compared to a traditional education, allowing learners to study at their own pace while working or starting a business.
With the job market now, many employers are looking more for skills, experience, and work ethic than a degree. As industry and technology needs advance, the ability to adapt, work/learn independently, and work efficiently is often more important to employers than a diploma.
For people who are motivated and looking to avoid debt, alternatives to college are a route that’s faster, more affordable, and a head start to a successful and fulfilling career.