Personal Finance Mastery

Determining your path for Education?

The "worth" of college is highly subjective and varies from person to person. Some people find the experience invaluable for both personal and professional development, while others may find better ROI through alternative pathways. Consider all these factors carefully to make an informed decision.

Financial Considerations:

• Tuition and Fees: Calculate the total cost of the degree, including tuition, housing, fees, books, and other educational expenses.
• Opportunity Cost: Consider what you're giving up in order to attend college—years of work experience, salary, etc. Based on our What is a dollar worth calculator. At 18 years old, every dollar invested turns into 88 dollars at retirement, so the sooner you start squirreling away money, the better.
• Financial Aid: Subtract any scholarships, grants, or other aid to find out how much you'll actually need to pay. Don't forget to factor in interest if you're taking out loans.
• Earning Potential: Research the average salary for your desired job after graduation. Also consider job availability and the potential for career growth.
• ROI (Return on Investment): Divide the difference in your lifetime earnings with a degree by the total cost of the degree. Compare this to the ROI for not going to college.
• Loan Repayment: Calculate the monthly loan payment and see how it fits into your expected post-college budget.
• Time to Breakeven: How long will it take to recoup the costs of your education with your increased earning potential?

Personal and Professional Considerations:

• Interest and Passion: Will college help you pursue what you're passionate about?
• Skill Development: Will you learn skills that are valuable in the job market?
• Networking: College can provide opportunities to meet people who can help you professionally.
• Credential Requirement: Some professions require a degree by law or by professional standard.
• Personal Growth: College often provides a unique environment for personal development.
• Job Market: How stable is the job market in your chosen field? Is a degree required for most positions?

Alternative Considerations:

• Trade Schools: For certain careers, vocational training can be more cost-effective and time-efficient. Searching google will show you some results for your state. These vary in cost and can cost form 3-20 thousand in total, which is a whopping saving over a traditional college experience.
• Apprenticeship: Find an apprenticeship for trade jobs using the official government resource site. apprenticeship.gov Job Finder
• Online Courses: These can be cheaper and more flexible but may not carry the same weight as a traditional degree.
• Part-Time Work and Education: Some people opt to work while studying to offset costs.
• Community College: Starting at a community college and then transferring can reduce the overall cost.
• Gap Year: Taking time to work or travel can provide valuable experience and make you more certain about your educational choices.