Quote:Your point is agreeable and disagreeable at the same time. It depends what your major is. I majored in Computer Science and make a good living. Someone who majors in an "athlete" major will certainly have trouble finding a great job.

 

Plus, to become a doctor/lawyer/nurse, etc you need a 4 year degree anyway.

 

Having said that, you are correct in your trade school comment. If you know from the beginning that school just isn't for you, then I totally agree in a trade school.

These routes, especially in the medical sector, entail delayed earnings and compounding debt (surpassing $300k+) - with the mandatory 4 years of professional school, plus a possible residency that could span from 2-7 years...

 

That being said, the opportunity cost is different for people with different interests and backgrounds. Giving up the majority of your 20's to set yourself up later on in life is a tough pill to swallow sometimes. 

 

I remember seeing a study where the standard 4-year graduate entering the workforce out-earns the person pursuing the professional degree by almost 10-15 years, including retirement accounts, debt repayments, and whatnot.

 

I definitely agree with your last statement though. I feel like the college degree has become somewhat "diluted" while the cost to obtain one has sky-rocketed dramatically here in the US.

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