Ok, I’ve only managed to read the first 13 posts but don’t have time to spend reading this morning so gonna answer instead.
I don’t know how useful the actual “education” from going to college or university is in many cases. At least for the kids who have to “leave home” and go to college or university, I believe it is a good 1/2 way training to get them to start learning about living on their own and organizing their own life/education. At least that is what I thought 20-30 years ago. I’m sure much has changed since then.
My degree. Bachelor of Science from the college of arts and sciences at Western Michigan University. It was actually a student planned curriculum in Audio Engineering and Threatre Technology. Much of my learning/experience came from “extra curricular” activities being the assistant for the Recording Studio, Being an assist for the theathre department, and running audio for one of the vocal Jazz groups. I actually worked in the field of entertainment technology in various ways for over 20 years (from before even getting out of high school until 2014) and I suppose I still handle book keeping for my Husband who is still in the business.
Became addicted to gardening in 2006. Started my “business” in 2010 after teaching myself how to create a web site by hand. Then I went nuts about 12 years ago and bought a farm. Couldn’t stand the traveling anymore so had a kid. Now days I talk about my “past life” in entertainment being on the road etc. Now I’m a farmer that also sells garden stuff online.
So I count myself rare that I actually worked in my “field of study” for a considerable amount of time. Of course, most people working in that same field, didn’t actually need any degree. The time at University was really more of an opportunity to gain experience without needing to “land the job.”
Now days kids who actually want the academic classes can often start taking college courses while in High school if they are driven and advanced enough for the work. Those that are not so interested can and should look to the technical training. And anyone who wants to learn something, heck, use the internet, you can learn just about anything if you decide to focus on it.