Unsure whether or not you should go to college? Plenty of people feel the same way and are having trouble figuring out if it’s right for them. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide.
Pro: You Receive a High Level of Education
Being educated to a high level can come with many future advantages in life. Of course, this will depend on the subject you choose to study and what kind of qualification you receive. If you have a specific career path that you hope to follow, you will often find that certain qualifications are needed before you can even consider applying for the job. Education is incredibly valuable and so being able to pursue it for a greater length of time should definitely be considered a positive point.
Con: College is Expensive
Unfortunately, unless you are already wealthy, going to college costs a lot of money. Tuition fees, accommodation expenses, as well as food and everyday items can become much more difficult to afford when most of your time is taken up by your studies. Many students take on a part-time job to provide additional income while they attend college, but this can put a strain on your time and energy. College is especially expensive if you move far from home to study, both in terms of moving costs and going back home to visit your family.
Pro: There Are More Opportunities
For many people, going to college can be their first taste of independence and freedom. It gives people a chance to explore their own interests without feeling held back by their past. For example, attending a college in a new location can be a great way to open yourself up to new experiences. If you wanted to study in New York, you could look at the NYU admission requirements at campusreel.org to clarify which steps to take. College is of course mostly about learning more in-depth knowledge about a subject, but it is also a place where curiosity and exploration are encouraged. Plus, a qualification at the end allows you to expand your horizons.
Con: College Isn’t Always for Everyone
Despite the apparent prestige and respect that comes with attending college, it is not always the path to take. Some people thrive in different kinds of situations and college can cause them to feel inadequate. It is better for people who want to follow their own path to be unrestricted by the expectations set on them by strangers. Dropping out of college to follow a true passion takes courage and self-knowledge, so don’t feel obliged to go to college if you don’t think it will add value to your life.
How to Decide if College is Right for You
It is difficult to weigh up the pros and cons of going to college. You will need to think carefully about your own ambitions and the various paths you can take to achieve them. In some cases, college could be the perfect way to reach your goals and achieve your potential.
