There's a lot of talk about college being too expensive, of degrees not holding the same weight they used to, and of the rising costs and massive debts. I agree. College has become a former shell of itself. The whole idea of a university is to be an isolated place of rational thought where the intellectual elite can gain and contribute knowledge. Colleges will now accept students into programs such as "leisure studies." That's great if you just want to meet friends, go to parties, get wasted, and try to get laid. College is a great place for that. Some of the programs have become so easy to get a degree in that you basically just need to show up alive to class.
I have nothing against people who just want to have a good time. If you see college as a great opportunity to have fun, then more power to you. But I think that this attitude is why so many people are dissatisfied after they leave. They realize that they spent 5 years doing little in gaining skills, trades, or something of economic value. Add to that the debt you have to pay, and college seems like a scam almost.
There Are Still Valuable Majors And Degrees
If you are looking to go to college as a place of intellectual pursuit then feel free to follow the subject you are passionate about. For those who just want to get a high-paying job after graduation, there are some majors to definitely avoid. Instead of making a **** list of all the worthless degrees I can think of, I think it's better to make a list of the valuable degrees. So here are my top ten:
- Physics
- Engineering
- Math
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Medicine
- Computer Technology
- Law
- Politics
- Business and Finance
I could go on to add things like accounting, nursing, petroleum geologist, or sales, but I think a lot of them fit into the above ten. And besides a few exceptions to this list, I really don't see any reason to go to college for anybody who is just looking to get a good job afterwards. If you want to pursue a subject because you love it, then that is what college is for. But if you just want a good career, I would stick to this list pretty hard.
It may be difficult for 4 or 5 years to devote yourself to rigorous study. But it is still worth it. The alternative, besides going independent and self-employed, is to get a skilled trade like a plumber or a fireman. That can be just as rewarding. You save half of a decade, you get to earn and save money, and you can further your career.
This post is mainly for people who are thinking about college and weighing the options. It was worth it for me. I studied mathematics and it helped me get a good job in the technology sector. Things often happen when you least expect them to, and if you are considering higher education then I hope you are successful.