The Question of College: Reflections on My Academic Journey

When it comes to higher education, I can unequivocally state that my time in college was one of the most challenging and regrettable experiences of my life. I was never genuinely interested in college, and now, looking back, I realize that attending it was a huge mistake.

Forced Path and Unaddressed Problems

Reasons like pressure from my parents and the societal norm of going to college overshadowed my own aspirations and problems. My primary interests did not align with college, and my health issues and personal struggles added another layer of burden to the experience. I felt purely lonely and depressed during my four years, a time that could have been more productive if I had found alternative pursuits.

A Useless Degree

Upon graduating with a supposedly useful STEM degree in computing, I realized that the degree was actually detrimental. I spent all my time striving to complete coursework, stricken by stress, health problems, and a lack of genuine motivation. The reality of the situation was that the job market required much more than a college degree – it demanded internships, additional experience, and a genuine interest in the field.

Better Alternatives

Hindsight is truly 20/20. If I had moved out at 18, I could have gained valuable life experiences, a social life, and essential work experience. The value of discipline, problem-solving, and personal growth would have been much more apparent, and I would have become a more well-rounded individual without the financial burden of a college loan.

Self-Discovery After College

Although it was a difficult decision to go against my parents' wishes, I eventually came to appreciate my experience. Since graduation, I have acquired more knowledge and skills than I did during my college years. College taught me how to learn, study, and advocate for myself, and it honed my critical thinking skills.

Real World Success

Now, I see many of my college peers who struggled with the same discipline and focus. Those who did not finish college, while equally intelligent, lacked the mental fortitude to tackle challenging tasks and detect their own biases. Their focus was often misguided, and their success was impermanent.

In conclusion, my experience as a college dropout has been highly enlightening. It taught me the value of self-reliance, problem-solving, and perseverance. I am now in a much better position to navigate life’s challenges, and I recommend others to follow my lead by embracing life outside the academic bubble.