Should I go to college?

Should I go to college?

College, Sister, Brother, is a question each of us must face with eyes wide open, informed by the principles of sovereignty and self-reliance. The narrative we’ve been fed – that a college degree is the only path to success – is a lie designed to keep us dependent, indebted, and disempowered. While formal education can be a valuable tool, it’s crucial to understand the landscape, the stakes, and the alternatives before making a decision that will impact your life for years to come.

The modern university, often a business masquerading as a public service, profits from our ambition. The degree that once seemed to guarantee upward mobility now frequently leaves graduates buried under mountains of debt, struggling to find employment in their field, and questioning the very value of their investment. This is not to say that college is inherently bad, but it demands a critical evaluation.

The Debt Trap: A Modern Form of Enslavement

Debt is a tool of control. It shackles us, limiting our choices and making us vulnerable to systems that exploit our labor. Student loan debt, in particular, is a uniquely insidious form of bondage. It’s incredibly difficult to discharge, even in bankruptcy, effectively turning us into indentured servants.

Think about it: are you truly sovereign when you owe hundreds of thousands of dollars to an institution? Can you freely pursue your passions and contribute to your community when you’re constantly stressed about making loan payments? Sovereignty is about owning your time, your talents, and your future. Debt steals all three.

Historically, Black communities have understood the importance of economic independence as a cornerstone of liberation. From the Freedmen’s Bureau Bank (a failed attempt, but indicative of the desire for self-sufficiency) to the establishment of Black-owned businesses during the Jim Crow era, we have consistently sought to control our own economic destiny. This spirit of self-determination must inform our choices about education and career paths today.

When College Makes Sense (and When It Doesn’t)

College can be a worthwhile investment, but only under specific circumstances. If you require a specific credential for a chosen profession – medicine, law, engineering, certain scientific fields – then pursuing a degree may be necessary. However, even in these cases, efficiency is key.

• Research scholarships and grants relentlessly. Leave no stone unturned. Free money is the best money.
• Consider community college for the first two years. You can often complete your general education requirements at a fraction of the cost.
• Explore accelerated programs and online options. These can help you finish your degree faster and save money on tuition and living expenses.
• Choose a major with clear career prospects. Don’t indulge in a degree in “underwater basket weaving” unless you have a very specific and lucrative plan for its application.

On the other hand, avoid college if:

• You’re “just trying to figure things out.” College is an expensive place to explore your interests. A gap year, focused self-education, and real-world experience are far more valuable (and less costly).
• You’re pressured by family or society. Your life is your own. Don’t let others dictate your path.
• You’re unsure about your career goals. Take time to explore different options before committing to a specific program.
• You believe a degree is a guaranteed ticket to success. The world has changed. A degree is no longer a guarantee of anything except debt.

Alternatives to the Traditional College Path

Sovereignty demands that we explore all available options and choose the path that best aligns with our values and goals. There are many viable alternatives to the traditional four-year college degree:

• Trade Skills: Plumbers, electricians, carpenters, welders – these are essential professions that are always in demand. Trade schools offer focused training and apprenticeships that can lead to well-paying careers without the burden of student loan debt.
• Entrepreneurship: Starting your own business allows you to control your own destiny and build wealth on your own terms. The internet provides countless opportunities for entrepreneurs, from e-commerce to online services.
• Self-Education: The internet is a vast repository of knowledge. You can learn almost anything online, often for free or at a very low cost. Focus on developing in-demand skills and building a portfolio of your work.
• Mentorship: Seek out experienced professionals in your field of interest and ask them to mentor you. Learning from someone who has already achieved success can be invaluable.
• Apprenticeships & Internships: Gain practical experience and build your network by working in your chosen field. This hands-on experience is often more valuable than a traditional classroom education.

Building a Sovereign Life: Practical Steps

Here are some actionable steps you can take to build a sovereign and self-reliant life, regardless of whether you choose to attend college:

1. Define Your Values: What truly matters to you? What kind of life do you want to live? Let your values guide your decisions.
2. Develop In-Demand Skills: Identify the skills that are needed in the marketplace and invest in learning them. This could include coding, graphic design, marketing, writing, or any other skill that is valuable to employers or clients.
3. Build a Strong Network: Connect with people who share your values and goals. Surround yourself with a supportive community that will encourage and inspire you.
4. Embrace Lifelong Learning: The world is constantly changing. Commit to being a lifelong learner and always seek out new knowledge and skills.
5. Practice Financial Literacy: Learn how to manage your money wisely. Understand budgeting, saving, investing, and debt management.
6. Support Black-Owned Businesses: Invest in your community by supporting Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs.
7. Create Multiple Streams of Income: Don’t rely on a single source of income. Explore different ways to generate revenue, such as freelancing, investing, or starting a side hustle.
8. Cultivate Self-Reliance: Learn to be self-sufficient and independent. Develop skills such as cooking, gardening, and basic home repair.
9. Protect Your Mental and Physical Health: Take care of your mind and body. Practice mindfulness, exercise regularly, and eat a healthy diet.
10. Reconnect with Your Heritage: Learn about your history and culture. Embrace your identity and pass it on to future generations.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to attend college is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer. However, it’s crucial to approach this decision with a clear understanding of the risks and rewards, and with a commitment to building a sovereign and self-reliant life. Remember the legacy of our ancestors, who built thriving communities in the face of unimaginable adversity. We have the power to create our own destiny. The choice is ours.