In 2026 it is becoming increasingly more difficult to make it into and afford college. Many factors play a role in this like money, grades and even just being uninterested.
According to data from 2022, only 62% of high school graduates immediately enroll in college.
Instead of college, many students also go to trade school, work under apprenticeship or entrepreneurship.
“I have considered going to play football through JUCO if I don’t make it into a good college, I’ve also thought about going into construction,” sophomore Nathan Vermillion said.
As of 2023 about 23.7% of employment comes from trades such as manufacturing, construction and mining.
The main reason for this switch is the rising cost of tuition which is making students question whether it’s even worth it to attend college.
“For what I want to do, probably not..I want to major in biology. I am getting a full ride though for volleyball,” senior Marley said
This makes trade jobs a more reliable option that provides a stable income with less training and significantly lower cost.
“The cost of college only affects me a little bit, I think I’m more focused on the community and the campus,” Vermillion said.
However some educators argue that college provides valuable experiences beyond just job preparation.
Most high paying jobs require years of schooling past high school such as doctors, lawyers and engineers.
These jobs are also very important to keep a functional society, without them the world would not be able
to work.
At the same time, trade jobs are important to keep infrastructure and businesses running smoothly as well.
Whether you decide to go to college or not, you can still end up doing something that is important and contributive to the world.Another option that is arguably the hardest route for most people, entrepreneurship.
Since the quarantine in 2020 there has been a massive boom in small owned businesses that can mostly be run from home.
This path allows for creative freedom, flexibility, and independence, but also comes with financial risk and responsibility.
