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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]OP here. Thanks to many of you for the helpful replies. And no, I have never thought that college is a must. That’s why I’m trying to help my child sort this out. It is fascinating that everybody assumes it’s a boy. It’s not. And yes to the post to say it is a series of conversations and also to really think through a Plan B. I think that’s where I get stuck and honestly where my child gets stuck as well.[/quote]

In the same situation, OP. All of the posters above make fair points. I would argue that a solid majority of those who start (a 4-year) college IN THE US don't belong there (having taught university myself). Our intent in the US was to democratize the university, a laudable goal. However, making everyone conform to a University/college model is too cookie-cutter to account for students' diversity of interests and talents, and it can create more problems than it solves (e.g., mental health, identity, student loan debt). Of course, those that point out that average income earnings are higher for those with bachelor's degrees (and depending on where you live, you now have to have at least a Master's degree to earn such incomes) aren't wrong either. The data support their positions (see Brookings Institution website).

The challenge in so many metro areas, in particular, is that there aren't many Plan Bs available in the US--certainly nowhere near what's available in other countries in Western Europe, Canada, etc., which have far more vocational training options available for careers that pay well. I've also seen more vocational programs in rural Virginia and other smaller American towns, beginning in high school and carrying through to post-secondary programs, but they are sorely lacking in the DMV.

I'm trying to convince my DC that there are many ways to earn degrees, whether associate's, bachelor's, etc. (e.g., combine with PT work; online degrees; 4-year commuter options) AND that the time isn't right for many until they have more clarity regarding their interests and/or greater maturity. The formualic approach taken to high school in affluent areas, which for many undermines necessary exploration to discover interests and talents, isn't helping. The result as I see it is that some exploration that used to happen during the high school years is delayed until college, which can create havoc for some students (and greater tuition layout on the part of parents, debt for the students). That relative lack of exploration is affecting not only academic courses but also a formulaic (and somewhat externally dictated) approach to extracurriculars.

Back in the day, when college was less expensive and not as pre-professional as it is today, students could afford to explore. Now, 
impractical" courses and majors are being cut in secondary and higher ed, and sky-high tuition/room and board (and student debt) are increasing pressure on students to pursue certain degrees that they may not be suited for or even like.

- Stills seeking Plan Bs

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