Learn on Your Own: Avoid Debt and Overpriced Education: Before diving into college and potentially racking up debt, consider this: failure rates and dropouts are common in higher education. Often, students end up taking multiple courses unrelated to their primary interest—like computer science—only to be burdened by additional classes in subjects like English, math, and public speaking. These courses add to the debt without directly contributing to your specific career goals.
In many college settings, you’re essentially teaching yourself. Professors may provide guidance, but the bulk of the learning happens outside the classroom, often on your own time. While some people need structure to avoid falling into a rut, with discipline, you can teach yourself everything you need to know through free or low-cost online courses from platforms like Udemy, Coursera, or LinkedIn Learning. These resources offer training at a fraction of the cost of a traditional college education.
People often study subjects they’re not interested in or pursue degrees due to external pressures, without realizing they can study on their own schedule and obtain certifications through certified testing centers. It’s possible to secure jobs based on self-taught experience, sometimes even more effectively than with formal certifications.
Compare thousands of dollars in college fees per year to $400 for hundreds of hours of online courses. College is a worthwhile investment only if it’s already paid for or if you have a scholarship. Otherwise, the financial burden may outweigh the benefits. Some people need the structure of a classroom setting, but others thrive with the flexibility of self-directed learning. Instead of commuting and sitting through hours of lectures, you could be comfortably learning at home, using your time more efficiently.
There’s a misconception that you need formal schooling for certain careers, like photography. In reality, you can become proficient through online courses and training videos, often at a much lower cost.
Understanding how to study effectively is key. Many people struggle and fail because they haven’t learned the right techniques. By mastering how to study, you can retain information faster and more efficiently.
In today’s world, you can learn almost anything for free if you know where to look. Paying thousands for a traditional college education may not be the best use of your money. Instead, consider using those funds to start your own business or invest in other personal growth opportunities.
