Dropping Out of College: When is It the Right Decision?
Education is often seen as a path to fulfilling careers and a bright future. However, for some students, it can become a drain on both emotional and financial resources. Should you drop out of college, or is it a better choice to stick with it?
The Pressure of Being in College with No Immediate Path Forward
Feeling lost and unsupported can be overwhelming for college students who face a range of issues, from financial constraints to a lack of job prospects and a sense of isolation. For instance, if you have no car, no job, and no support system, and you are seven hours away from home, the pressures can indeed seem insurmountable.
However, considering dropping out without careful thought could be costly in more ways than one. While it might seem like a temporary fix, skipping out on your degree may lead to long-term consequences. Your financial investment in education would be wasted, and you might face a missed opportunity to catch up financially and emotionally.
Education's Value in the Long Run
Did you know that college graduates catch up on pay within just five years after graduation? Completing your degree, especially if the degree is challenging to obtain, such as in keyboarding or telephone operations, will be significantly more valuable in the long run. The financial return on investment in such degrees can be substantial.
Moreover, finishing your degree can provide a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment that will stay with you. Without a degree, you might constantly find yourself asking 'what if,' which can weigh heavy on your mind. If you are unable to finish for yourself, consider doing it for your parents, spouse, or other loved ones who have supported you.
Casual Success Stories: Dropping Out for the Right Reasons
There are cases where dropping out of college can lead to significant success. Consider the story of a jazz pianist who was one semester away from finishing his music degree before he decided to pursue a different path in retail sales. The man's quick success and rise in the industry were primarily driven by his uncanny ability to craft deals and sell products effectively.
After a period of 'couch-surfing and navel-gazing,' as he called it, the real opportunity came knocking. He seized it and thrived in the fast-paced world of retail sales. Despite his initial setback, he eventually accumulated enough savings to return to school and earn a history degree. This education opened up new doors, leading him to a prestigious law school and the success of working for high-tech startups. By age 40, he had achieved financial independence and fulfilled his father's dreams, even if too late to heal the emotional wounds.
It's important to understand that sometimes, dropping out can be the right decision if you are pursuing a degree that may not align with your true passion or potential. In the case of the jazz pianist, he recognized that his musical ambitions far exceeded his talent and the limitations of what he could achieve in the music industry. By making the bold decision to pivot, he not only preserved his emotional well-being but also found a path to enormous success and fulfillment.
In conclusion, while it's generally advisable to complete your degree due to its long-term benefits, sometimes, it's crucial to follow your intuition and make decisions that align with your career goals and personal aspirations. Whether you choose to stay in college or pursue a different path, it's important to make a decision that aligns with your values and future objectives.