Is It True That Most Street Smart People Don't Go to College Until Later in Life?

College has often been perceived as the golden ticket to a bright future, but the debate around its timing is quite contentious. Many believe that for optimal results, it's best to pursue higher education immediately after high school. However, the notion that only academically inclined individuals should rush into college and that street smart people should delay their education until later in life is a serious misconception.

The decision to delay college until your 30s comes with its own set of challenges and benefits. Those without a significant other or children can focus solely on their studies, and their parents can keep them on their health insurance plans. This period is crucial for absorbing the full benefits of formal education without the encumbrance of real-world responsibilities.

The Myth of Street Smart

Many equate street smarts with a certain level of resilience and ability to navigate life's challenges. Ironically, this self-taught, pragmatic understanding of the world is often seen as a substitute for the structured knowledge and skills gained from higher education.

Street Smart: A Survival Instinct

Street smarts emerge from a necessity to survive in specific environments. When faced with dangerous situations, our natural instincts kick in, enabling us to do what is needed to stay alive. However, it is essential to distinguish between street smarts and the critical thinking and problem-solving skills developed through formal education.

College as a Path to Success

College is not just a means of acquiring knowledge; it is a foundational period for shaping one's character, enhancing problem-solving skills, and gaining insights into various fields. The idea that one can be as successful without a college degree is largely unfounded. College provides a diverse network of contacts, which can be invaluable in the pursuit of career opportunities. Moreover, universities offer a structured environment that fosters personal and professional growth.

The Reality Check

The concept that waiting until the 30s to enter college is a smart decision is a fallacy. Personal experiences and observations reveal that this approach is not only unrealistic but also detrimental. Delaying formal education for a decade requires immense planning and resilience. Imagine trying to reintegrate into a college environment after such a long gap. Language barriers, outdated curriculum, and an adjustment period can make the transition challenging.

The social dynamic of being an older student can also be uncomfortable and even unsettling. Most college students perceive older students as past their prime, which can create awkward and tense situations. The reality is that the skills and knowledge gained in college cannot be replicated through experience alone. The structured learning environment and exposure to diverse perspectives are irreplaceable.

Planning and Purpose

While taking a gap year or two to explore is a reasonable approach, embarking on a 10-20 year gap to pursue college later in life is highly impractical. It requires a well-planned existence and a clear understanding of the consequences. If your career goals necessitate higher education, it is advisable to aim for the optimal timing. Deliberately delaying formal education for too long can result in missed opportunities and a disadvantage in competitive fields.

Conclusion

The decision to go to college or not is deeply personal and depends on your goals and circumstances. While there are pros and cons to delaying college, the idea that street smart individuals must wait until the 30s to pursue higher education is simplistic and misguided. A balanced approach, combining practical experience with formal education, is often the most effective path to success.