The College Experience: Change Your Life, Change the World! by Ryan

The College Experience: Change Your Life, Change the World! by Ryan - April 2020 Scholarship Essay

With the amount of student loans being incurred by millions of young Americans, the question often arises as to whether or not college is a beneficial experience. The prospect of living the rest of one's life as a debtor of college tuition appears to be a daunting imagination. However, choosing the college program which best fits you can be one of the most enriching investments of a lifetime. And anytime I hear someone ponder the prospect of attending college I am reminded of a quote with which I was imbued as a child: "If you believe that education is expensive, then try ignorance." A college is a space where like-minded individuals may come together to share their diverse experiences in an effort to form a more wholesome community. Such diversity and opinion can allow an individual to learn how the world really works. This opportunity of enlightenment is most valuable for anyone passionate about their education.

On the other hand, in my opinion, college is not designed to best suit the needs of each and every one of us. There are many people, whether they be in the arts, athletics, or trades, that will not see great benefit from the academic knowledge offered by a college. By pursuing their own interests they are sure to learn valuable information which will allow them to advance in their own discipline. Like any passionate student, however, they will learn that the acquisition of such skills require discipline, resilience, and determination. A college education offers all three of these attributes. No matter what a student studies, they will become more more honorable and reputable individual by completing a college education.

College can be quite often looked at from the stance that it is only a financial investment. It is, however, so much more than that. The relationship capital that one may foster during their college years is an invaluable resource which will benefit them the rest of their lives. Not only is a college student able to network with professionals and professors, but they are able to surround themselves with a cohort of friends that are their age. Students are able to create a learning community in which everyone succeeds and is a champion. There are also extracurricular activities, such as athletic teams, where group members are able to feel the pride of uniting behind a common goal. There is nothing more satisfying than accomplishing something so dear to you, all the while being surrounded by people who you love.

To anyone who is on the fence as to whether or not they should attend college, I would offer this advice: college is more than an academic experience, and can transform you into a more wholesome person. College is a place for students to get better each day, so do not worry if you are a straight A student. Persistence and a commitment to bettering yourself on a daily basis will in the long run make you a more excellent human being. If you are still unsure what path to take, THAT IS PERFECTLY OKAY! There are plenty of colleges with varying programs and price tags to meet your academic needs. Worst-case scenario, a college education will instill within you a tenacity to make the world around you a better place. You will never look back and regret the decision you took to make yourself a greater person. Do not feel guilty to yourself that you passed up on the enriching experience of a college experience.

~Ryan King Wilson