Choosing Between College and Work—And How to Pay for School If You Go
3/27/2026
By Serena M.
When I graduated from high school, I was faced with a huge decision: college or straight to the workforce. Both paths can lead you to a fulfilling life if you listen to and trust yourself.
College Isn't the Only Option
You can find many well-paying careers in healthcare, manufacturing, or trades that don’t require a degree. Apprenticeships and vocational programs can teach you to be an electrician, plumber, dental hygienist, and more.
If you don’t know for sure that college is for you, it’s okay to take a gap year to work, explore your interests, and figure out what your next step is. I actually chose to go to college right out of high school, and I took my gap year late to discover myself and who I am. Taking this time is what led me to find the career that was right for me. Don’t feel like you have to rush a decision like college, just because everyone else is committing to and going to college.
When College ACTUALLY Makes Sense
College is a resource for those who need a specific degree to get their dream job. If you’re choosing a career like teaching, nursing, or engineering, college may be a good choice for you. Additionally, college is great for exploring subjects, networking with others, and developing your critical thinking skills.
If you know you want to go to college and get a degree but you aren’t sure what you want to do yet, don’t be scared to go in undecided. This will give you exposure to lots of different subjects, topics, and things you might be interested in. If someone makes you feel bad about being undecided or anything else, for that matter, they’ve just shown their true colors, and now it will be easier for you to find your real friends.
Overall, make your decision about college carefully. Remember, this is a big financial investment. Make sure you do some research on your desired field. Can you start without a degree? Can skills be gained through on-the-job training or certifications? Career exploration tools can help you find what you want to do, understand where your personality type might shine, show you potential salaries, and requirements for jobs you’re interested in.
So You Committed to College and are Worried About the Pricetag
If you have determined that college is the right path for you, take a breath; you don’t need to accumulate massive amounts of debt. Start yourself off by filling out the FAFSA to determine if you’re eligible to receive federal grants, work-study, or loans. Consider working part-time or through work-study programs to help cover living expenses without additional loans. Some employers even offer tuition assistance.
On top of this, look around your community. There are lots of scholarships out there through local organizations, businesses, and community foundations. Go for every scholarship that applies to you–because why not–and remember: even small scholarships can add up.
Pro-Tip: Consider starting in community college and transferring to a four-year school. Doing this saves money, your prerequisites are often identical, and many have transfer agreements with state universities.
The Bottom Line
Choose what is best for you based on your personal goals, NOT outside pressure. Do your research carefully, explore yourself and your interests, and remember that it is never too late to change your mind later. It took me until I was 25 to get to the career path that truly fits who I am; for some people, it may take less time, for others, it may take more time. No matter what, your path is valid and you’re on the right track.
About the Author: My name is Serena. I am a transition-aged youth in Northeast Ohio who is learning how to navigate adulthood one step at a time alongside all of you. I have faced my fair share of challenges, but I have learned from each experience. I want to share how I see the world, advocate for myself, and keep moving forward. My story is still being written, and it’s rooted in growth, resilience, and figuring things out as I go.