As high school ends, there’s pressure to decide what’s next? Join the work force full time? Do an apprenticeship or two year training program? Join the military? Go straight to a four year college?
It’s a lot to decide when you’re still a teenager. Though college seems to be the one students feel the most pressured to consider, it’s not for everyone.
However, Mr. Etsch who attended a four year liberal arts college, St Mary’s College of Maryland, to received his Bachelors of Arts in History with a minor in educational studies, before doing a one year Masters of Arts in Teaching, believes, “College is more than just an academic challenge; it provides socialization for young adults at a point in our lives when we are asked to take on more responsibilities. Many unexpected life skills pop up as areas for improvement. We must reconsider ourselves, our identities, our self concepts and our efforts and abilities based on these. ” He shared how throughout college he didn’t just learn about his major but how to talk to his boss, how to talk to girls, how to avoid conflicts, and how to resolve ones that are unavoidable.
Though yes students head off to college for the academic experience to become certified and trained for a particular field, it’s also a great stepping stone to learning how to live independently. “However, not everyone will have a positive, let alone identical college experience. But it can prove to be a transformative step in maturation.”
College allows students to try different interests, professions, and academic identities, so even if you start college not knowing what you want to be when you grow up, it gives you a chance to explore your options.
