I can’t believe there are still people who believe that not getting into a college of their choice means they’ll be “flipping burgers” for the rest of their lives.

I don’t know if they meant it as a joke or if they were being serious, but that’s just such an ignorant and irresponsible thing to say. Just because you go to college does not guarantee you a (good) job. The choices you make in life are what determine how you’ll end up.

For example, you can graduate from Harvard. But let’s say, for story’s sake, that you ended up getting addicted to cocaine. Let’s say you spent all your free time snorting. This is a choice that you’ve made. Let’s say ultimately, you end up on the streets because of your addiction. You pour all your money, time, and energy into this addiction. Harvard? That’s a past you reminisce on when you’re not busy getting high. This is the consequence of the choice you made. You did not end up getting addicted to cocaine because you went to Harvard, nor will you become a well known figure in society because of Harvard- these things happen because of the actions YOU take.

So why do kids think that college is everything? It’s a good choice for many people, but it’s also a personal choice. If you can’t use your skills after you graduate, you’re going to be working entry level jobs forever. It’s great that you have this big dream for your future, and you’re working hard to get to it…. but that doesn’t give you the right to make ignorant comments like that. 

I can just see you all grown up, with kids. You pass by a fast food restaurant, and you look inside. You point, and tell your kids, “That’s where you’re going to end up if you don’t study.” Congratulations, you just planted the first seed of judgment in your kid. I get the feeling that you, are going to be a great role model.