What to Do When Your Child Tells You They Don't Want to Go to College?

Senior year of high school is a whirlwind of emotions and activities. From senior pictures to prom, it's a time of celebration and anticipation. For parents, it often feels like a culmination of years of hard work, nurturing, and guidance. It's no wonder that the question on every parent's lips is, "What college are you going to?"

Deep sigh!

But here's the reality: not every senior has dreams of dorm rooms and lecture halls. In fact, for some, the very thought of college is terrifying. I'm sure that a lot of your students are giving you the frustrating "I don't know answer?" And in today's age of social media, where every achievement is broadcasted and every milestone is celebrated, the pressure is even more intense. But parents, take a deep breath. There are multiple pathways to adulthood and success, and college is just one of them.

Understanding the Current Landscape

Before diving into alternatives, let's look at some statistics:

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, only about 60% of students who began seeking a bachelor's degree at a 4-year institution in fall 2012 completed that degree within 6 years.

In 2021, about 43 percent of high school completers immediately enrolled in 4-year institutions and 19 percent immediately enrolled in 2-year institutions.

These statistics highlight a significant trend: college isn't the only or even the best option for everyone.

Exploring the Alternatives

If your child is hesitant about college, it's essential to have an open conversation about their goals and aspirations. Here are some alternatives to consider:

- Vocational and Technical Schools: These institutions offer specialized training in specific trades or careers. From plumbing to culinary arts, these schools provide hands-on training and often have a quicker path to the workforce.

- Apprenticeships: Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing participants to earn while they learn. Fields like construction, manufacturing, and even tech offer apprenticeship programs.

- Coding Bootcamps: As someone who works with intelligent students at a Code School, I can attest to the value of these intensive training programs. Many of these students didn't complete college, yet they possess the skills and knowledge to thrive in the tech industry. *Insert Shameless Plug* CodeCrew's Code School is a great option!

- Entrepreneurship: If your child has a passion or a business idea, why not encourage them to pursue it? With resources and platforms available today, starting a business has never been more accessible.

- Gap Year: Taking a year off to travel, volunteer, or work can provide invaluable life experiences. It can also offer clarity and direction for future endeavors.

- Online Courses and Certifications: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Khan Academy offer courses in almost every field imaginable. These can be a great way to gain skills and knowledge without the commitment of a full-time college program.

The path to adulthood and success is not linear. While college can be a valuable experience, it's not the only option out there. As parents, our role is to support, guide, and provide our children with the resources they need to make informed decisions about their futures. Remember, every child is unique, and what works for one might not work for another.

Celebrate their individuality and trust in their journey.