College or university isn't what it's cracked up to be...

College is not for everyone, but it should be based on an individual's career choice. Not many people are born with the skills to navigate modern society; some people have the skills to be a natural salesman, but most do not. For example, I never thought I was ready for college, so I joined the United States Marine Corps. However, I was able to graduate after 24 months from Troy University before I completed my four years of active duty in the Marine Corps. More than half of my high school classmates went to college, only 1/3 graduated with a Bachelor's degree, and some returned later to earn an advanced degree. Those who went to college have better careers than those who finished high school and stayed in the service industry, like being a barber, nail technician, hair stylist, retail, etc.

To stay in a competitive job market, a college degree is essential. My friend is running a small consulting company in the Washington D.C. region; almost every contracting position requires a Bachelor's degree. There is an exception if a qualified candidate does not have a Bachelor's degree and could not find anyone else, but it is mostly required, and a Master's degree is preferred.