June 4, 2023
By Amerie Diaz
Staff Writer
In the digital age, it is clear that not everyone needs a college degree to be successful. With education becoming more accessible and flexible than ever, students should consider all forms of education, not just the traditional college route.
For example, trade schools are a common alternative to the standard college experience. Trade schools offer hands-on experiences, which can be beneficial to students who want to get a headstart in their careers.
Similarly, online education provides a more affordable and accessible way to earn a degree. It is especially valuable for working students or students with family responsibilities. With online education, students can access learning materials and coursework from anywhere at any time. This makes academics available to anyone who has a stable internet connection, regardless of location, schedule or financial capabilities.
Moreover, college is expensive, and not every student will have the means to pay for it. Students from low-income backgrounds or underprivileged areas may feel discouraged from furthering their education because of this, and that is why there should be a larger emphasis on less expensive options such as trade schools and online schools. With these options, there is no need to pay for transportation or textbooks, so students have the opportunity to save money as they earn a degree.
By schools offering and promoting alternatives to college, students may find their true passion and avoid pursuing an education that is not right for them.
Additionally, the traditional college classroom setting is not the best learning environment for everyone. With online learning, students can learn at their own pace, making it an ideal option for anyone who prefers a self-directed approach to learning.
To encourage students to explore alternative forms of education, high schools should continuously highlight the benefits of trade schools and online education and remove the stigma behind not going to a four-year college. Instead of assuming all students want to take a similar academic path, teachers and counselors should understand students’ long-term goals, budgets and preferred learning styles. By schools offering and promoting alternatives to college, students may find their true passion and avoid pursuing an education that is not right for them.
With summer approaching, students of all grade levels should consider what they want in the future. By researching and exploring different options for education, students can determine how best to approach their education to gain success and fulfillment. Students must take the time to acknowledge their strengths and interests before deciding on their next steps after graduating high school.
