In society, there has traditionally been a stigma around not going to college. However, some would argue that it is more beneficial to skip college and jumpstart one’s career instead. There are certainly pros and cons to each decision depending on one’s life goals.  

Individuals might not wish to attend college for a plethora of reasons. College is expensive, and some individuals believe they can get a better bang-for-their-buck by not attending. Instead of college, one could go to trade school, start a business or begin a career that does not require a college degree.  

On average, college costs students approximately $35,000 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. In order to avoid these costs and instead make money right out of high school, one might choose a career like a physical trainer, insurance sales representative or massage therapist. These careers, while they still need some training certification, do not necessarily require a college degree but pay considerably well.  

While affordability is a consideration for many individuals choosing their post-high school careers, it is also important to consider how a college degree could be beneficial.  

“The college pathway, in the long term, will statistically make you more money,” said Eagle High’s College and Career counselor Anna Bemis. Degrees can act as sort of a safety net if the market crashes and employers must decide between an employee with a college degree versus one without.  

Senior Ethan Evans has very specific goals for his future. He is choosing to jump right into a career after high school with the possibility of earning a degree later down the line.  

“I’ve been considering working with The College of Idaho as an equipment manager for either football or baseball,” Evans said. “I have gained experience here at Eagle High School for football, and in the spring, baseball.”  

While college degrees can certainly give job applicants an edge up on the competition, every person’s situation is different and there is no right or wrong path. For students with very specific goals that do not require degrees, foregoing college and beginning a career might be the right choice. For students seeking higher education and a university experience, college paths could be for them.