College is a scam

2025/1/4 Edited to

... Read moreI totally get the frustration about those never-ending college discussion posts. It truly feels like the definition of 'busy work' and, honestly, 'brain rot' when you're just rehashing opinions. But for me, the idea of college being a 'scam' often goes even deeper than just those assignments we're forced to do. Think about it: we're shelling out 'thousands of dollars' for an education, and sometimes it feels like the actual 'learning' takes a backseat to administrative hoops and generalized 'gen ed classes' that don't always align with our goals. I remember sitting in classes wondering if what I was being taught would actually prepare me for a career, or if I was just checking boxes. It’s hard to shake the feeling that we’re paying a premium for content that could often be found for free, or for skills that aren't adequately honed. It’s not just the 'waste of time' with repetitive assignments; it's the systemic pressure to attend college as the only path to success, often leading to significant debt without a clear return on investment. I’ve seen so many peers struggle after graduation, realizing that a degree doesn't automatically unlock doors. The disconnect between what's taught and what the job market demands can be disheartening, contributing to the feeling that college isn't always what it's cracked up to be. So, if you're feeling like college is a 'scam' or just a lot of 'busy work,' you're not alone. My advice, from my own experience, is to try and take control where you can. Focus on internships, networking, and seeking out mentors who can provide real-world guidance. Don't just do the 'homework' for the sake of points; try to find the genuine learning opportunities, even if they're hidden. Supplement your formal education with online courses, workshops, or passion projects that build tangible skills. While the system might feel flawed, we can still actively seek out ways to maximize our personal growth and ensure we're getting some value for those 'thousands of dollars.' It's about making our own path through the 'brain rot' and 'busy work' to define what a valuable education truly means for us.

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