Going through elementary, junior high, and high school was mandatory, and it’s expected college is next. Parents tell their children to grow up and do what makes them happy, follow their desires and most importantly achieve their goals. A successful education is an important aspect to achieve in life, yet college is not the only option to fulfill that.

Many believe the only way to get far in life is through a college degree.This belief isn’t wrong, yet with so many opportunities available, it’s hard not to disagree. The idea of going straight to a university got drilled into students since kindergarten. It adds competition within the students as well as the pressure of getting accepted in the first place.

If someone chooses not to immediately go to college after graduating high school, it isn’t an opportunity to suggest that they will not amount to anything. Although it is not encouraged to drop out of school, it is not an act to look down upon. For those who don’t see college as a life goal, there are alternatives.

Trade school, community college, and travel are all considerable options to help gain experience. Similarly, finding a job and volunteering are effective ways to learn life skills and make a difference at the same time.

Choosing a community college is a cheaper option; studying for two years then being able to transfer to a new university to finish the tuition.Going to community college is simply an easier way to escape from debt, and save a lot of money for a career after graduating. Furthermore,  having a minimum education than others does not put one at a disadvantage. Education is meant for those who want to expand their knowledge, while others prefer to experience life and discover themselves.

Another similar option, as mentioned before, is trade school, which is a school that instructs skills related to a specific job. According to thesimpledollar.com, trade school is much more practical than a four-year college experience, due to the fact that 40% drop out before completing their degree at a university. In addition to that, 64% take longer to graduate than four years, which puts them in even more debt having to repeat courses, and extend their stay at university. Since trade school is for two years, the degree costs around $33,000 with a debt loan that is 70% less than a four year graduate. Choosing trade school as an alternative is a wise choice in order to save thousands of dollars, as well as comprehending to be successful in the real world and achieving expertise.

Traveling the world after high school tends to be a very popular dream, which some believe they cannot achieve. If no other option works, and travel is truly a passion, as it can all work out through hard work and savings. Getting a job is an important aspect, it teaches how to deal with situations outside of school, and portrays a sneak peek on how the world actually is.

Whatever path is chosen, it will lead to success either way.