Life Without A College Degree--Alternatives To The University--Cool Jobs

Here is a short article on some alternatives to heading straight from high school to a pricey college or university. I do not have a college degree and I consider myself quite successful thus far in life, and far more importantly, I am happy--without debt. This article is intended to provoke some thought for the young person before they blindly enter an expensive college career.

First an impassioned speech!

Why should you listen to this uneducated guy rant on about not going straight to college from high school? Does this guy have a chip on his shoulder? Yep, I do. I see so many fools that went through college, have a degree, and now, with a large debt, still don’t know what to do with their lives. I am an advocate of self disciplined learning. Not all people are like me and need the structure of school where professors guide you in the learning process. I prefer to not to pay for that-and believe most should, at the very least, pause, and think about what they really want from life before they amass a crippling debt.

Go to college! But wait a while! Don’t go immediately after high school. It is impossible to know what you want to study as a naive eighteen year old----YOU HAVE TIME----wait, get a job, some life experience, travel a little---then, when you have a better idea who you are, GO TO SCHOOL! I can’t say it enough, just wait, and explain to your anxious worry-wart parents that you need time to discover what you want from life.

AMERICORPS--- This is a fantastic program, kind of like a “small national peace corps.” I joined an Americorps program called, “City Year,” that in a lot of ways formed who I am today. It enabled me to move from my small town in Maine to a large city in California---an eye opening experience. They pay a living stipend, (a small but reasonable salary) and after a year of service, about five grand for college that you can use within five years of completing the program.

Become a FOREST FIRE FIGHTER! You would be surprised that this is a job available to a persistent, strong young person. It is also summer work, that enables you to save money for TRAVELING.!

How to become a hotshot LINK: http://hubpages.com/hub/howtobecomeahotshotfirefighter

Get any old summer job, save money and then, TRAVEL. When you travel suddenly you are shaken to the core. Leave the United States! You see the world in a new light, you might even meet fellow traveler and have a passionate affair, opening your eyes to new philosophies and life-styles. You may even end up changing you political point of view.

Learn a foreign language. So valuable in this day in age! Imagine being able to flirt in a foreign language. You don’t need to pay a school to learn a language---in fact you learn a language in a more deep and real manner far from a classroom. As long as you are self disciplined and enthusiastic. Also a great excuse to travel.

Last but not least, maybe you could consider joining the military.  It is hard for me to promote this as I choose not to make this sort of commitment.  I am a pacifist, but the benefits of joining the military are undeniable.  Lately, I have met many practical people that are now finishing school debt free after a taking full advantage of their well deserved GI bill.

I am a fledgling writer, and a hotshot fire fighter. I plan on going back to school--but not until I am sure of what I want to learn. I am twenty -nine years old and still unsure---I have plenty of time! Good luck in all that you decide and please leave a comment on your uncollege alternatives, experience or ideas

Check out a short story I am writing at: http://hubpages.com/hub/The-Mexican-Nurse-And-Her-Red-Tattoo-A-short-Story

Ah yes, I almost forgot here is a link to the AMERICORPS web site.  The perfect place tobuy some time while finding yourself. Also a very noble, productive way to start your life.

Check it out at: http://www.americorps.gov/