I graduated from high school at 17 and knew I wasn’t ready to go on to college. I got excellent grades and could have graduated at 16. I scored high enough on the SAT to become a Mensa member. I was academically ready for school but I felt I needed to take a break. I wanted to work, save money for school, travel, and figure out my career path. Instead, my parents forced the isssue and I ended up attending a school I didn’t want to attend and majoring in art (which was a hobby NOT a vocational calling).

I ended up dropping out of college and spent the next 5 years paying off student loan debt. Every time I wrote a check, it reminded me not to be pushed into doing something I’m not passionate about.

When I did return to college, I was fully engaged in the learning process and absolutely certain about my major and career plan. I had the maturity needed to navigate the financial aid process and graduate on time with a degree I use every day.