College markets itself as an essential path to success. College promises a stable career, financial security, and a fulfilling life. The reality is college fails to prepare you for life.

Outdated Curriculum and Teaching Methods

College curriculums are dated. Many courses rely on old textbooks, irrelevant theories that no longer apply to the modern world, and use old computer programs and technology. The education system focuses on memorizing information to pass tests, not on acquiring valuable skills in the workforce.

For example, students use software that's been obsolete for years or analyze case studies that no longer have any relevance. This approach leaves graduates ill-equipped to deal with current industry demands.

Many colleges rely heavily on theoretical knowledge and rote learning rather than teaching critical skills like coding, digital marketing, or data analysis.

Students read old books, take notes, and prepare for tests that assess their ability to recall information, not their ability to apply it. The gap between what students learn in the classroom and what employers need in the job market is widening every year.

The result? College degrees become worthless.

The Burden of Student Debt

One of the most glaring issues with college education is the financial burden it places on students. The Federal Reserve reported student loan debt reached $1.75 trillion in 2024. The average borrower owes around $30,000 post-graduation. This debt can take decades to pay off. Student loan debt forces many to delay major life milestones like buying a home or starting a family.

What makes this situation even worse is that many graduates are not landing high-paying jobs that justify the expense of their education. Instead, they end up in entry-level positions that don't require a degree, leaving them to question whether their investment in college was worth it.

A Strada Education Network and Gallup study found that 51% of college graduates would change one part of their education path.

Lack of Practical Skills

The traditional college model fails to teach practical skills immediately applicable in the real world. College bombards students with abstract theories and concepts that rarely see the light of day in real-world scenarios.

Many students graduate without knowing how to manage their finances, negotiate a salary, or even write a professional email.

For instance, business students may study complex financial models and economic theories but never learn how to balance a budget or manage personal investments. Computer science students might learn about outdated programming languages that are no longer in demand. Students often take jobs requiring skills they never learned in school, forcing them to learn on the job or through self-study.

Take it from me. I spent nearly a decade in the higher education system. I received a bachelor's degree in political science. I got interested in information technology. I decided to go to graduate school for cybersecurity. I thought I had completed my cybersecurity master's program, but it turned out that I had one class left.

However, despite having numerous interviews with potential employers in information technology and cybersecurity, no employer wanted to hire me. They wanted me to have skills on my resume. They did not care that I knew the cybersecurity theory and had done six cybersecurity labs in my graduate program.

As a result, I ended up working retail jobs. I began to focus on learning about online business and in-demand skills. I already had the infrastructure with my website. I am now a part-time copywriter while I continue to build my online business.

Unemployment and Underemployment

At one time, a college degree was a guarantee of employment. However, that is no longer the case. According to Inside Higher Ed, 41% of recent college graduates are underemployed. These college graduates work in jobs that don't require a degree. These positions often include roles in retail, food service, or other low-wage sectors that provide little opportunity for advancement.

Unemployment and underemployment have long-term financial implications. Graduates stuck in low-paying jobs cannot pay their student loans, save for retirement, or invest in their future.

The promise of college as a pathway to success has become a myth.

The Solution: Self-Education and the Power of the Internet

So, what's the alternative? Fortunately, the rise of the Internet has made self-education more accessible than ever. Digital courses, online certifications, and access to skilled professionals have leveled the playing field.

The Internet allows anyone wanting to learn to acquire valuable, in-demand skills directly applicable to today's job market.

Learning Practical Skills Online

Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses on everything from coding to digital marketing, often taught by industry professionals working in the field. Unlike traditional college courses, the program creator often makes course updates to reflect the latest trends and technologies for the topic. Students learn and acquire relevant skills, often for less than a college class.

For example, if you're interested in data analysis, you can find courses that teach you how to use industry-standard tools like Python, R, and Tableau, often for a fraction of the cost of a college course. Not only do these platforms offer classes, but they also provide certifications. Adding a certification to your resume makes you more attractive to employers. It shows them you have completed the additional training or study.

Learning from Skilled Professionals

One of the most powerful aspects of the Internet is the ability to learn directly from skilled professionals in the industry. Platforms like YouTube, Twitter/X, and email newsletters allow you to subscribe and follow to learn from successful individuals in your field of interest. Many professionals share insights, tips, and even step-by-step guides on how they achieved success. This direct access to skilled professionals can provide invaluable knowledge you would never get in a traditional classroom.

Building a Portfolio Instead of Relying on a Degree

Instead of relying on a degree, build a portfolio that showcases your best work and skills. Whether coding projects on GitHub, design work on Behance, or writing samples on a personal blog, a portfolio tangibly demonstrates your abilities. A portfolio provides concrete evidence of your skills.

Employers are becoming more interested in your skills than where you went to school. A skills-based economy is a good thing. A job is supposed to be about what skill you offer an employer, not what piece of paper you have from some college.

Networking Online

Networking has also become more accessible. You no longer need to pay six figures or more to network by attending college. You can network on social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and even niche communities such as Reddit and Discord.

You can connect with professionals by joining relevant Facebook or LinkedIn groups in your field. Make a point to engage in discussions actively. Showing that you are active and contribute value to the groups can open doors for you to job opportunities, mentorship, and collaborations.

Summary

College was the go-to path for previous generations for success. However, it is increasingly becoming clear that this is no longer true for Millennials, Gen Z, and younger generations. It's time to rethink the value of a college degree and embrace how you can educate yourself in the digital age.

I threw away my college degree and graduation robe because it did not help me. What are other ways that college fails to prepare you for life?

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The views expressed in this article are the author's opinions and views and do not reflect the views of Secure Single. It is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Secure Single does not give health, medical, relationship, travel, or financial advice. Secure Single does not provide advice of any kind. Always consult and speak with a professional.