3 Reasons Not to Go to College
This was originally written by Tim Patterson in 2017 and has been updated by Sterling Admissions in 2023.
In today's landscape, it's hard to escape the prevailing message directed at high-school seniors: "You must go to college." The persistent chorus of voices advocating for college enrollment can feel overwhelming, matched only by the relentless marketing efforts of colleges and universities. Students find themselves bombarded with glossy brochures, persuasive letters from deans, email campaigns, meticulously crafted ads on social media, and even text messages and phone calls from enthusiastic admission counselors (or, let's be honest, college sales representatives).
At Sterling College, we wholeheartedly believe in the immense value of a college education. We are genuinely enthusiastic about connecting with students who are the perfect match for our unique academic environment. Offering both Associate's and Bachelor’s of Arts degrees in Environmental Studies, we seek out individuals who are genuinely passionate about environmental stewardship and who are thrilled by the prospect of attending a college where enrollment is deliberately capped at 150 undergraduate students.
It's worth mentioning that Sterling College may not be the ideal fit for the majority of students, and that's perfectly fine. We acknowledge that we are not the right college for 99 out of 100 students, and we embrace this fact. In fact, it is that one student in a hundred whom we truly wish to engage with and get to know on a personal level.
If you are that exceptional student who is enthusiastic, driven, and dedicated to making a positive impact on the environment, we are eager to connect with you. Let us embark on this remarkable journey together and shape a future that is committed to sustainability, experiential learning, and transformative education.
However, what about students who don't align with Sterling College and also find themselves uncertain about whether any college is the right fit for them?
The constant bombardment of college marketing, peer pressure, and the pervasive "go to college" messaging from adults can create an environment that pushes students towards college classrooms, regardless of whether it truly aligns with their best interests. Sometimes, the push for college attendance is motivated not by what's truly best for the student, but by other factors: the pressure for colleges to meet enrollment quotas, the desire for college counselors to successfully "place" students, and the need for parents to feel their child is following the path society deems appropriate for young adults.
In this regard, we offer reassurance to high school seniors who may be grappling with college-related anxieties. It's perfectly okay not to attend college. In fact, opting out of college at this moment might be the most beneficial choice you can make. Here are three reasons to consider not pursuing college:
FINANCIAL CONSTRAINTS. It's no secret that the cost of attending college has skyrocketed, leaving many students and families unable to afford it. The looming student loan debt crisis only adds to the concerns.
One of the biggest frustrations for students and families is the lack of transparency in determining the actual cost of college. Differential pricing, merit scholarship practices driven by competition rather than merit, and complex financial aid formulas make it incredibly challenging to understand the true financial implications. As a result, students often find themselves in a state of confusion until they graduate, when the weight of their accumulated student loan debt becomes painfully real.
This financial reality holds true for students attending public and private non-profit colleges, not to mention the issues surrounding for-profit higher education institutions.
While it is possible to obtain an affordable college education, there are no guarantees. It is crucial to carefully examine your financial aid packages, fully comprehend the amount of debt you are taking on, and seek guidance and advocacy throughout the process. Obtain written guarantees and agreements. If you find yourself overwhelmed while reviewing financial aid packages and questioning how you will ever repay your loans, take a step back. Breathe. It's perfectly acceptable to say "no thank you" and explore more affordable opportunities, even if it means considering one or more gap years.
Although the financial argument for attending college—namely, the potential for higher lifetime earnings—is often emphasized, it doesn't negate the importance of minimizing student loan debt. The less debt you incur, the greater your financial freedom in the future. Ultimately, there is nothing wrong with being patient and persistent in finding an affordable pathway to your degree.
2. NOT YET PREPARED. This is a sensitive topic, but an important one to consider. It's crucial to acknowledge that not every student may be fully prepared for college immediately after high school. This suggestion does not intend to undermine the capabilities of students; rather, it recognizes that some individuals could greatly benefit from additional time and life experiences before pursuing higher education. College represents a significant investment of both time and money, and if you feel unprepared to make the most of your college journey, it may be wise to wait until you have gained more valuable life experience.
At Sterling College's Office of Admission, we prioritize attributes such as a strong work ethic, personal maturity, and a clear sense of purpose when evaluating prospective student applications. These qualities cannot be accurately measured by standardized test scores alone, yet we believe they are vital indicators of student success. Frequently, although not always, students who have taken time to work, travel, serve in the military, or engage in independent study between high school and college demonstrate enhanced readiness to embrace the opportunities available to them in college.
It's essential to remember that education is a lifelong pursuit, and there is no rush to jump into college immediately after high school. Taking the time to develop your personal and professional skills, gain perspective, and clarify your goals can make a significant difference in your college experience and future endeavors.
3. PURSUING ALTERNATIVE PATHS. If you have a well-defined sense of purpose and a compelling plan that doesn't involve immediately attending college, I commend you! There are numerous honorable and rewarding career paths that do not require a degree. For instance, the building trades offer a wealth of in-demand job opportunities. We are a strong advocate for gap years, particularly those that involve travel and exposure to different cultures. Taking time off to broaden your horizons can be immensely enriching. Additionally, serving in the military might be a suitable choice for some, especially if you can secure tuition benefits that will make college more affordable in the future.
Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to post-high school decisions. Embrace the opportunity to explore diverse paths, pursue your passions, and gain valuable experiences that align with your individual goals and aspirations.