Walking into my school you enter a community of teenagers that all push to go to the best colleges out there. To impress and fit in. To discover who they are or to make their parents proud. It seems like when you are a senior, college is all you talk about. None stop. Personally, I hate the subject.
Do I plan on going to college? No, I dont. I know you all have something to say about that. Maybe how I should go. I might like it. Bla bla bla. I appreciate all your opinions and enjoy reading them but college is not my place. Why? I know what I want to do in life. Many teenagers my age dont but I have my passions. Plus, college would just be torturous for me. I want to get out in the world and experience it. That is how I will accomplish my dreams.
I would rather just get a job when I graduate. Pet sitting or something with dogs. Plus, I can always take a class to learn more about photography or dog training. I have always preferred working instead of school anyways. Its a known fact that a lot of kids just go to college to grow up. I can grow up in a job just as well. Also, a lot of teenagers are pressured into it by friends and family. I know how it is. Really, the only reason I was leaning towards college was because right now that is what makes you “cool” at this age. Saying your not going to college can make you feel like people do not think you are smart or will get far in life. Thats wrong though. I can get just as far or even farther as long as I push myself.
College is not for me. It is not my cup of tea. I visited a few of them and they just did not click. It is okay though. I have my mom’s support and her guidance. She is a mother who will help me if I dont go or if I do. My mom just wants me to be happy and succeed the best I can. So, right now there is no college in my plans. I prefer not to right now. It makes me stress if I feel like it is something I must do. I will show you that I can succeed with out it.
It really depends on what you want to do in your life. With photography I would agree, if you’ve got passion, and talent, you really don’t need college***. I’d suggest getting some books, learning about lighting, and then try and start your own business doing whatever it is you want to do with your photos.
If you really want to do dog training, I’d say that’s something you will need to take classes for, possibly even college. You’ll need to know a lot about the animals behavior, and how their mind and bodies work, and you pretty much need to know everything about every breed of dog. This IS something you could learn just by reading, but going to school for it would probably be easier.
***Also keep in mind for photography, college is a big way to build your portfolio. I went to a 9 month school, and I did learn a lot about photography, but I don’t have a big portfolio that I can show people. If I’d gone to a 4 year school I’d be walking away with a large portfolio of fabulous shots that I could show any perspective employer/client, and that’s what photography college is about.
I’m not gonna tell you to go, I’m not going to tell you not to go, I just think you need to really think about all of the pro’s and con’s for each option, and not just “I don’t need to be cool, I can make it on my own”. In high-school I always said “I’m not going to college, I can’t stand school, I don’t want to do it for 4 more years!” But now that I’m out.. I wish I had gone to a 4 year college. College is also about life experiences, not just learning.
But what do I know, I’m only 20.
I’m so glad you have come to a decision. I am proud of you. Perfect photo for the topic!!!
love, m o m
Anna, I’m glad you’re thinking this through. Your honesty is a valuable tool in making progress and avoiding wasting time doing things because others expect or want you to do them. I keep reminding myself that ‘customs’ include everything you ‘don’t have to do’. College is always there. If at some point you see a benefit, there’s no age limit to enrolling. I’m in favor of community colleges and or auditing classes you want or need for your chosen career. If your heart is working with animals/photography, I say do it! Have a wonderful time doing whatever you decide to do, Sal
(h5)… i don´t sure about this… but its your life, plus, your have a good reasons. (sorry, i have a bad english)
Anna, you are extremely smart and express yourself very well, you know what you want to do..people are coming out of college and are working at McDonalds with huge bills to pay, then they are told they are overqualified when apply for job. Old saying “find a job you like and you will never work a day in your life” so do what you want to do. hugs Alice ♥♥♥
I think the choice is totally up to you. Go out, experience the world, get a little living under your belt, you have a long life ahead of you!
As for the pet sitting, I opened up my own pet sitting business about ten years ago. The pet stays at home and you go to them. I have even taken care of horses, cattle and donkeys and mules. I gave the business to a friend of mine as it got too big for me and I’m an old fart but if you wanna check it out… her website is http://www.bighornweb.com/crittersitters. The web still has my pictures on it with my Tumbleweed (golden). Might giver you some ideas!
Take care and don’t stress about what other people are doing..you are unique and that’s why we like you!
Lisa
Your a very bright young woman, and have a good sense of direction with your feelings!Follow your heart and do what makes you happy,I think you’ll find that this will give you the best rewards in life…After all it’s the choices we make along this great journeythat count..Good luck and keep smiling..Danny
Hi Anna,
good to hear you have made a decision, i am very sure you will be very good at whatever you decide to do, you have a very positive attitude, and a lot of support from your mum, i am happy for you girl go for it!, great photo btw!
Anna,
I think you are very smart and mature for your age and I agree, I think you should do whatever your heart desires and if college is not for you then so be it. Your mom is the greatest because she is supporting you for whatever decision you make and thats what parents should do! So don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. I think you will be great at whatever you chose to do!
WOW! Great Picture! (btw. go to college…really!!!)