Should You Go to College or Choose to Work and Learn? Facing the Future with AI
Deciding whether to go to college or take a different path like work can be one of the most challenging decisions in life. Many people, including friends and family, may influence your decision, but ultimately, it is your life, and how you choose to live it should reflect your goals and aspirations.
Sean’s Perspective:
Sean advises that you shouldn’t take everyone’s opinions as a definitive guide for your life. 'It’s your life and how you live it is up to you,' he insists. He also suggests turning to divine guidance if you’re struggling with the decision, citing a verse from the Bible: 'And this is the confidence that we have toward him that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him.' (1 John 5:14-15)
For some individuals, college might not be the best path. There are successful career paths that don’t require a college degree. Trades and technical fields often require specialized training and offer great career opportunities.
College Isn’t for Everyone:
Many people believe that a college degree is the only way to establish a successful career, but this notion is quickly becoming outdated. There are numerous careers that can be pursued with some form of post-secondary training, such as vocational schools or community colleges.
For instance, Sean mentions his brother, who excelled in an electrician’s apprenticeship despite disliking school. His lack of interest in traditional academic pursuits didn’t hinder his success or earning potential.
“There are many fields where a career can be established with real-world training and hands-on experience,” says Sean. “You might find more excitement and satisfaction in fields like making or fixing things than in reading books like Moby Dick or doing algebra problems.”
The Rise of AI:
Another important factor to consider is the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI). In just a few years, AI is expected to replace most jobs, especially those in the professional sector. The impact of AI can already be seen in industries like writing, where automated systems can generate code, write articles, and even cook recipes.
Why AI will Replace Many Jobs in 5 Years:
1. AI Learns Super Fast: AI can learn vast amounts of information in minutes, far faster than humans can.
2. AI Doesn’t Get Tired or Distracted: AI can work tirelessly and consistently without the risk of errors from fatigue or distraction.
3. Cost Savings: Businesses find AI cheaper than hiring humans, as it reduces labor costs and other associated expenses.
4. Many Jobs Are Already Changing: Examples include self-checkout systems and chatbots, which are replacing human workers.
5. AI Can Handle Complex Tasks: AI is capable of performing tasks previously done by humans, such as reading X-rays and writing news articles.
6. Technology Moves Fast: The rapid advancement of technology means that AI will continue to evolve, making it even more efficient and powerful in the future.
7. Everyone Talks About It: The importance of AI is recognized by big companies, scientists, and experts, indicating a significant shift in the job market.
Conclusion:
The decisions you make today can shape your future career. While college can provide valuable knowledge and networking opportunities, it’s not the only path to success. Consider your personal interests, career goals, and the rapidly changing job market. Don’t be swayed by what others might think or say, as your life—the most precious resource—only belongs to you. Decide what direction you want to take and pursue it with confidence and courage.