The Problem, The Unique, The Solution
Occasionally, I get asked to “Cut to the chase and give me the bottom line.” Of course, that is easier said than done when it comes to YOUR student and YOUR/THEIR aspirations about higher education and careers.
Before I try to answer this, let me affirm a long-held belief I have about all of us. We ALL have many gifts and graces in making a living and a difference. Some know one path early in life; others use their gifts like a game of hopscotch; they land on a square, dance with that gift, then hop to another square and work a different gift. Some use certain gifts in the work world and others in the “after-hours” world.
The Problem.
In a nutshell, The Problem is this blind belief everyone should go to college and get a degree, no matter how much it costs. Somehow it will magically make you healthy, wealthy, & wise. In fact, for some, that path makes you sick, poor, and not feeling like Einstein. If you must borrow tens of thousands of dollars to get some degree that takes 4-6 years, and you owe hundreds a month for the rest of your working life, how is that the best path? I want to commend the latest generational cohort, Gen Z. AS A GROUP, they are taking a long and hard look at the cost-to-benefit ratio. In the business world, it’s called ROI, or return on investment.
The Unique
The Unique is your student. Some students show the ability to do well in the lecture-style schooling we provide in high school. They will be fine in the lecture style college we offer today. But for a significant group of others, those whose gifts are mechanical, technical, tactile, learn-by-doing, they need a different path. They may need great training in a variety of fields that TODAY, are begging for quality workers and will pay a living wage. It may be welding, airplane mechanics, IT, manufacturing, etc. The good work of the parent is to pay attention and see what your student shows you. Then, help them find a future that uses their gifts.
The Solution
The Solution. AFTER you know your student’s path is to meet your goal at the lowest cost and in the fastest time of completion. Period. I don’t care if you have the money in the bank, seek out the most cost-effective quality path. Helping them focus on the least amount of debt possible is a great process for Life. What does this look like?
Scour the horizon for Community Colleges with training programs that may be tuition-free or deeply subsidized. Look for Community College first two years then transfer to University programs. Every Community College I know has this program. Some tech training is paid for by their industries, including a small work-to-learn stipend. While doing those 1st two years, have your student work part-time to bank money for their final two years in University, if that is their path. If not, it helps when they need to move out to start that wonderful new position!
Getting into the big U, if takes borrowing 15-20k a year, will eventually hobble them economically until they are ready to retire. College debt payments of $400-700 a month will impact their chances of buying a house, getting decent interest rates on loans, etc. High college debt can and will lower their options, lifestyle, and opportunities. It will hurt them for the rest of their life.
See The Problem. See your Unique Student. Craft The Solution.
I can’t think of a greater gift than doing the work, with your student, of getting them the right training/education they deserve for the best possible price. It’s a game you can win if you will take the time to learn. That’s what ENOUGH! The College Cost Crisis is all about. Still under $20. Still a great deal.
Until Next Time,
All My Best,
Bonnie Burkett
