College Alternatives: College Isn't Your Only Option

Believe it or not, college isn’t your only option.

The American education system starts preparing children for college (almost) as early as they learn how to talk. They are taught how to take notes in a certain way because "that's how it's done in college". They are taught "proper" study habits to prepare for college exams. Advanced Placement (AP) courses are pushed onto high schoolers just so they can receive college credit. Every high school's performance tends to be based off of the percentage of students who graduate and go to a 4-year university.

Alternatives to a 4-year College Degree

Kids who don't want to go to college are often marginalized and stigmatized, but college is not a necessary prerequisite for success. There are, in fact, many alternatives to getting a college degree and could save you significant time and money. Let's look at some of these possible alternatives and their benefits.

Go to Trade School

Trade school is a highly specialized educational institution where students can pursue a specific vocation. There are so many possibilities within trades. Think HVAC, construction, plumbing, automotive mechanics, culinary arts, cosmetology, agriculture, and so much more. 

There are many advantages to trade school, most notably being the duration and price of getting the education. Trade school typically takes only 2 years (as opposed to 4 or more) and is nearly 70% less expensive than a Bachelor's Degree on average. On top of that, jobs in the trades have a great level of security. You can't outsource a mechanic or culinary expert to another country, as these skills are very hands-on and localized. 

Enroll in online courses

There are some reputable and believe it or not, free, online courses available. Whether you opt for free or low-cost online courses, you will be able to choose exactly what courses and trainings you are interested in and want to take. You won't spend time taking classes that are irrelevant to what you want to pursue. 

Many jobs don't require a degree but a certain level of education will certainly help set you up for success. You can constantly expand your skill set and knowledge base by continuing an online education while you work. These courses can be completed on your own time, with your own schedule, by your own means, and can be a more beneficial learning environment than a university. 

Get an Apprenticeship / Internship

While education is important, so is real-world experience. By obtaining an apprenticeship, you can get both and learn while you work. There is something to be said about being able to learn a craft through doing it instead of listening to lectures and memorizing notes about hypothetical scenarios.

Conclusion

College is an amazing opportunity for some people, but certainly isn't for everyone. It's easy to forget that when college is pushed too heavily and unforgivingly onto our youth. It's ok to not want to go to college and it's also ok to go to college for 8+ years and receive a PhD. Either way, there are many options that will propel you forward into your ideal career. 

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