Education When College Isn’t Your Dream

College is becoming an increasingly expensive experience. Statistics from 2021 show in-state tuition is over $9,500.00 per semester. The cost seems exorbitant but it’s nothing compared to the cost of  the average out-of-state tuition, which is over $27,000 per year. And, after paying interest on student loans, the average bachelor’s degree could cost $400,000. College is also an enormous time commitment: students taking a 15 credit hour course load are advised to spend 30 to 45 hours per week studying. Given those statistics, if you want to go to college, you’d better be very certain it’s what you want. With the cost of college being so high, it is crucial that you make decisions about your education with the rate of return in mind. It is very important that your future career will pay the cost of your education and more. 

The Importance of Educated Women:

It’s extremely important for the young women of 2021 to have some form of education. Education is tied to longer life expectancy, healthier behaviors, and higher income. Therefore, education plays a vital role in securing a woman’s independence. But, if the idea of attending a four-year program fills you with misery and dread, that’s a sure sign that it’s either not for you, or not for you right now. Bachelors degrees take up too much time and money to be taken lightly. If you know that a four-year college is not for you, it’s important to know there are many other ways to get educated because, in the 21st century, education breeds empowerment. 

Community College:

If you like the idea of going to college, but you aren’t sure what you want to do yet, a community college may be a great choice for you. Community colleges are typically smaller and cheaper than four-year colleges. This makes them a great place to earn associate degrees and experiment with different courses. Also, if you aren’t sure if college is right for you, a semester at a community college could be a good place to start.

Trade School:

A lot of people are tactile learners, meaning that they learn best with hands-on practice. If you are a tactile learner, you may benefit from a vocational education, or a trade school. Vocational training in fields like healthcare offer a great opportunity in growing career fields. Most trade schools also offer programs in cosmetology, business, technology, construction, and many more.

Apprenticeship:

Another popular option for tactile learners is apprenticeship. Apprenticeship is different from vocational training in that it offers paid, on the job training. Other advantages include having a mentor and earning college credit without accruing debt. Apprenticeship programs can be the foundation for secure and successful careers: 94% of apprentices retain employment and earn at least $70,000 per year.

Certifications:

Certifications are a form of education that can further enhance the work experience you already have. Most certifications have required courses and then an exam in order to earn the certification. The courses can be in person or online, and they can take anywhere from hours to months to complete. The cost can also vary depending on the certification; some are free and some programs cost thousands of dollars. However, these certifications can enhance your career and help you earn promotions.

You Have Opportunities:

If going to college isn’t for you, it is important to know that there are many other opportunities to get educated. Because education is tied so closely to economic advancement, it is a fundamental part of empowering women. Education can help women lead independent lives, and it can open the door to many fulfilling jobs. No matter where you are in life, you have the opportunity to better yourself and advance your career. You are worthy of finding your purpose and pursuing it