There’s a prevalent belief that college isn’t meant for everyone, but is that really the case? This question ignites debate. While some students may feel ill-prepared for the rigors of college, often due to challenging school experiences, the alternative of trade school is frequently proposed. But what if trade school isn’t the ultimate solution? Perhaps the issue lies not in the suitability of college for all, but rather in the unequal access to higher education.
Currently, the idea of universal college access is a significant political topic. Many progressive voices recognize that the barriers hindering individuals from improving their lives stem from a lack of access to essential resources. If college were more affordable or even tuition-free, it would create a fairer playing field, which is precisely why some resist such changes. When everyone is given equal opportunities, excuses for systemic barriers start to disappear.
Education shouldn’t conclude after high school. If it does, that should be a deliberate choice rather than a consequence of circumstance. Students eager to pursue further education deserve more than just two options. Suggesting that certain students aren’t fit for traditional college and only directing them toward trade schools is unproductive. What if those students could thrive in a college setting but lack the necessary guidance? Counselors often dismiss their potential without offering viable alternatives.
As college tuition continues to soar while wages stagnate, the gap in equity becomes even more pronounced. For many, pursuing a college degree feels like a luxury. Recent data from Forbes highlights that there are 44.7 million student loan borrowers, accumulating a staggering $1.56 trillion in debt. Graduates from the class of 2017, on average, owe about $28,650. Even with loans, students need assurance of their ability to repay them. Many low-income individuals are effectively barred from higher education due to exorbitant interest rates. With entry-level jobs barely covering living expenses, how can they even begin to think about loan repayment? While not everyone needs an Ivy League education, state colleges should be affordable, if not free.
It’s crucial to recognize that many students labeled as “not college material” come from marginalized backgrounds. Whether they’re low-income, students of color, disabled, or a mix of these identities, they face significant disadvantages. Often, these students are told higher education isn’t for them simply based on who they are. Systemic oppression limits their opportunities to advance.
Lawmakers must focus on supporting marginalized students. We can’t expect them to contribute to society if they’re excluded from opportunities. Education is synonymous with access. It’s impossible to uplift oneself without proper resources. By making college financially accessible to everyone, we would be demonstrating a genuine commitment to improving the nation.
For numerous individuals, college is the appropriate pathway. A report from the Georgetown Center on Education and the Workforce noted that 78% of the 7.8 million jobs lost during the recent recession didn’t require a college degree. However, since then, 11.6 million jobs have been created, 99% of which have gone to college graduates. The data is clear—higher education is an unspoken prerequisite for employment, and this reality isn’t likely to change anytime soon.
Trade schools aren’t suitable for everyone, and they won’t resolve the overarching issue. While skilled trades such as carpentry and electrical work are essential, not every individual is inclined toward those careers. An accessible college education is vital for individuals to pursue their desired career paths.
Experts indicate that college graduates earn, on average, double what their peers with only a high school diploma make over their lifetimes. Viewed through this lens, it’s imperative to make college affordable for all. When everyone is financially secure, they contribute to the economy in meaningful ways—which is undoubtedly a goal for government entities. Investing in higher education for all translates into a more robust workforce for the future.
Making college free for those who need it is the path forward. Education in this country should be a fundamental right, not a privilege. Graduating from high school doesn’t magically equip individuals with all they need to succeed. While trade schools serve as a valuable option for some, they aren’t a catch-all solution. Students who wish to continue their education should have that opportunity. Those who can afford higher education often understand their future is secure. However, if we extended the same investment to marginalized students, the benefits would be undeniable. These students must feel that they are valued and worthy of investment in their futures.
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Summary
The conversation about whether college is for everyone often overlooks the critical issue of access. Trade schools are not a one-size-fits-all solution; we must ensure that all students have the opportunity to pursue higher education without financial barriers. By investing in marginalized students and making college affordable, we can create a more equitable society where education is a right, not a privilege.
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