This article was written by The Zillennial Zine’s spring editorial intern Lindsay Daneen. Find her on Instagram at @_lindsay_daneen. If you would like to share an article with The Zillennial, send us an email at thezillennialzine@gmail.com.
The most educated generations are Millennials and Gen Z. Congratulations to us! There’s no secret as to why. College degrees have been the key to career success since before we were born. That’s why our generations have been collecting diplomas like trading cards. That was the point, though. In exchange for our degree and our proven ability to learn through a 4-year academic program, we earn a job that will lead to a thriving career. But we are just realizing that this wasn’t a foolproof plan. People with degrees aren’t thriving like they presumed they would be while people without them are doing better than once predicted. This leads to a very controversial question. Can you be successful without university training? Or is the idea that higher education unlocks the key to success outdated?
Who Needs College Degrees?
There is no doubt college is necessary for many careers. If you dream of becoming a doctor, nurse, professor, or attorney, I’m sorry to tell you that you’re not avoiding college. So maybe this conversation isn’t for you. But what about the journalists, artists, chefs, businessmen, and businesswomen? Speaking as an individual with a B.S. and an M.S. I don’t believe it’s necessary for success.
College allows you to learn so many things in a controlled environment. For example, I was a communications major. My course options consisted of Italian, economics, philosophy, math, and plenty of literature. Do you know what I learned? I prefer Spanish over Italian although they are very similar. I hate economics and find it difficult to understand the theoretical yet technical nature of it. I learned that philosophy is not only about Socrates and those other boring guys. It’s used daily when we consider aspects of life that don’t have definitive answers. I also confirmed that math is evil (as it is not my strong suit) and that writing is something I love, and it comes easily to me.
With that said, as much as I appreciated learning these things at the time and place I did, I’m acknowledging I could have learned these things outside of school. I could have gotten a job, joined interesting clubs, and read books that allowed me to dabble in different subjects. Higher education eases you into adulting while skipping school drops you right into the deep end of the pool. You get real-life experience in a high-stakes environment. That’s great too! With the right drive and dedication, it can land you in the same place if not a better place than someone with a degree.
Alternatives
Trade school (or vocational school) is a great option! In my opinion, it’s underrated. It’s significantly more affordable and you walk away with tangible skills and hands-on experience. We will always need plumbers, electricians, auto repair experts, etc. Those skills also allow you to work for yourself if that’s your choice.
A gap year can also be beneficial. Why take out student loans and pay astronomical tuition if you truly don’t know what you want to do? Maybe a break between high school and college is more your speed. It’s never too late to educate yourself. So leverage your youth and take your time if you can. That might mean traveling or getting a job. I’ve heard plenty of people who have skipped out on college to work. Then they decided to go back later. Gaining perspective can do wonders and still lead to success.
Never underestimate how far a certification can take you, either. Many IT-related jobs do not require college. They’ll gladly hire a candidate with a certification in the field. This is another great option!
Living Proof
Steve Jobs dropped out of college after 6 months. Beyonce never attended college. Steven Spielberg dropped out. Hell, Kanye West’s debut album, The College Dropout, referenced his education status. Negative publicity and questionable behavior aside, he is undoubtedly considered successful. Even Ralph Lauren took a different route by dropping out and enlisting in the army. My point is this. Some of the most successful people in the world, who have shaped our society in music, film, fashion, and technology have either never attended or dropped out of college. Isn’t that beautiful? If that doesn’t prove my point, I don’t know what does.
College Is Not A Requirement
College is a very high-priced insurance policy. That’s what makes it feel so necessary in our society. Like many forms of insurance, you may use it every year or never use it at all. And like any insurance you don’t get your money back for the years you don’t use it. That’s more reason to understand that you can be successful without it. I can’t express how reassuring it is to have my diploma. But I must be honest and say that I’ll be very frustrated to learn that I could have reached my goals without it. If you’re brave enough to take on life without insurance, I commend you! You’re badass!
What’s The Final Verdict?
This is my answer to the question, “Can you be successful without university training?” Abso-freaking-lutely! You can’t be a board-certified brain surgeon or physiatrist. But you can leverage your skills and talents. For most jobs, management appreciates an employee who can do the job they are asking them to do. Unless the job requires a degree, you are as good a choice as anyone. You may have to work harder or be creative to prove you’re qualified or to get an initial interview. However, no manager in their right mind will pass up an experienced and professional individual with a proven track record. And if they do, screw ‘em! You go where you’re valued.
The decision to pursue a degree after high school is personal and individualized. For most jobs, it is not the only way to reach your goals. Remember that no piece of paper can outperform hard work, dedication, and relentless drive mixed with talent. College is great. And I don’t regret my decision to attend. But I know it wasn’t the only route for me, just as it isn’t for you. So, think long and hard about this expensive and permanent decision. And do not let your choice be determined by your fear of not being successful because of it. Everything you need is within you.
How do you feel about attending college/university? Is it truly necessary?
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