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Originally Posted by pigsonthewing6  I seem to be at a struggling point in my life. I'm half way through high school and there's a huge inner conflict going on inside me that I can't seem to resolve.
Part of me wants to follow the college system. On one level, I want to go to a good college. I want to be successful in life and have educational opportunities. I want to go to the best college possible, a tier one school or even an ivy league school. But to do so takes a tremendous commitment. I'd have to dedicate myself to the cause. It's the only way. But some part of me wants to take this journey. I want to be a good student, listen to my teachers, do all my homework and study well enough to get a high GPA. I want to pull all nighters when its necessary to pass that midterm. And I want to do enough clubs to be recognizable to colleges. And I want take classes and practice tests for the SAT and ACT.
But the other part of me has different motivations. On another level, I just want to be happy. I want to enjoy my youth and have as much fun as I can. I don't want be 40 years old looking back and wishing I'd had more fun when I was 17. I want to go out with friends, party, mess around with girls, get good sleep, play, work out and do whatever the hell makes me happy. I don't want the stress of following the college system. I don't want all my time to be consumed by clubs that I only do because they look good on applications. I just wanna be kid and enjoy life. And maybe I want to do this forever too. Sometimes I wonder if going to a good college would really do anything for me anyways. I mean, isn't the purpose of a good college just to be happy in the future. It seems like its been grounded in my head that the only way to be happy in the future is to go to a good college. Because good college means good career which means good income which means happiness right? But happiness is available right now, so why go through all the trouble?
Is there any compromise? Is there a right path? Does college really matter? Should I conform to the college system simply because that's what society dictates as the right thing to do? And, ultimately, what would really make me happy, because that's the goal isn't it?
Any thoughts would be very appreciated. |
Take it from a confused, nearly 40 year old who's been to school, has the degrees and no job to show for it..
Do what makes you happy. If you're not sure then go do some of the things you mention. If you're truly interested in whatever field you're planning to go to school for, you can still learn and perhaps even gain experience in the field by volunteering or shadowing those who are already doing it.
College can wait.. if you're having this much trouble deciding don't make a commitment yet. Have fun, be happy! Trust me, I would go back if I could.