HereS a breakdown of the text, focusing on the key points and arguments:
Main Argument: the author is “totally fine” with their 17-year-old son skipping college to pursue pilot training at a private flight school.
Reasons for Supporting the Decision:
College Doesn’t feel “Worth It” for Many:
Rising tuition costs.
High student loan debt.
Economic uncertainty in the job market.
A Pew Research survey found that onyl 22% of Americans believe college is worth taking out loans for.
Not every degree guarantees a high salary. Student loans can be tough to discharge and can lead to wage garnishment.
College can be a big financial risk.
The author prefers to support their son in getting specific training for his desired career, avoiding unnecessary classes.
College Isn’t for Everyone:
Not everyone is suited for full-time academic coursework.
Some students drop out after accumulating debt because they don’t enjoy the classroom surroundings.
Dropping out of college can lead to defaulting on student loans.
Supporting Details:
The son wants to become an airline pilot, a profession that doesn’t necessarily require a four-year degree.
the alternative plan involves staying home for a year after high school and attending a private flight school.
The author and their wife have paid off their own student loans.
Overall Tone:
The tone is practical, pragmatic, and somewhat skeptical of the traditional college path. The author emphasizes financial responsibility and the importance of pursuing a career that aligns with the individual’s interests and skills.They present a counter-narrative to the idea that college is the only or best path to success.
