Rethinking the High Cost of University for Young Adults: The Case Against Immediate Enrollment

The reasons why I believe 17/18-year-olds shouldn't be sold $30,000 university degrees straight out of high school are the following:

Since the age of 18, university life has been my constant companion, and now, at 32, I'm navigating my third year of a Bachelor of Psychological Science, aiming for post-grad and ultimately a PhD. My extended academic journey has crystallised a key observation: mature-aged students consistently outshine their younger counterparts.

This performance gap stems from the seasoned attributes of self-discipline, resilience, and an unparalleled work ethic that many younger students are still in the process of developing. The question then arises: Why do mature-aged students excel? Life experience and accruing responsibilities sculpt discipline and work ethic, but more crucially, mature students possess a clarity of purpose that often eludes their younger peers.

Unlike those fresh from high school, mature students return to academia with defined goals. Their pursuit of education is seldom for frivolity's sake (though I must confess, my love for academia might make me an exception). Conversations with fellow psychological science students often reveal a common uncertainty in their motivations for enrolling, a phenomenon rarely found among older students. This is not to belittle the exploratory phase of early adulthood; it's natural not to have all the answers at 20. However, the stark reality is that many young adults find themselves encumbered with substantial debt for degrees that may not align with their eventual career paths.

In the U.S., 75% of graduates work outside their field of study, highlighting a disconnect between educational pursuits and career outcomes. This misalignment contributes to a pervasive debt crisis, ensnaring even those in their 50s. This scenario underscores a flawed system where 18-year-olds are encouraged to make significant financial commitments without clearly understanding their implications, driven by societal norms rather than personal conviction.

Reflecting on my academic path, I embarked on a Bachelor of Commerce right out of high school, only to face academic setbacks and disengagement. Fast forward a decade, with a wealth of life experiences behind me, my academic performance in psychological science has surpassed my expectations. This transformation is attributed to a deeper self-awareness, clearer goals, and a refined understanding of my interests and values.

It's simplistic to argue that university attendance is the sole alternative to a life of aimlessness for young people. Numerous paths, including travel, diverse job experiences, and personal development, offer valuable life lessons and self-discovery opportunities. These experiences can equip young adults with the insight needed to make informed decisions about their education and career paths, beyond the traditional university route.

Ultimately, the current educational system seems ill-equipped to serve the best interests of young adults, pressuring them into premature financial and career decisions. My advice to 18-year-olds uncertain about their future is to explore life beyond academia. Work, travel, discover, and risk. Such experiences can provide a clearer sense of self and purpose. Then, if a university degree still calls, you'll approach it with a richer perspective, poised to get maximum value from the experience.

This approach not only enriches your academic journey but also ensures that your educational choices are aligned with a deeper understanding of yourself and your aspirations.