Embracing the Marathon of Education: A Parent's Perspective

In the Spring of 2023, my son graduated from high school and is now considering attending community college in the fall of 2023. At 18 years old, he has a keen interest in cars and computers but opted not to pursue a traditional four-year college experience.

As a parent, this journey has its funny moments. The looks and forced smiles we receive when others inquire about our child's plans for the upcoming year can be quite amusing. In our neighborhood, I see parents proudly waving the flags of prestigious institutions their kids will be attending. And rightfully so, they are proud of their children... or maybe they are.

You see, after being in education for 21 years, I fully understand the way many young people rush into college, accumulate significant debt, only to drop out, quit going, or transfer multiple times. It's a common occurrence.

The truth is, this learning journey is a marathon, not a sprint.

I've spoken to numerous young adults in their second or even third year of college who still have no idea what they want to pursue for work or a career. They have already invested substantial amounts of money and time into their education. While I won't claim this is the case for everyone, it is far from uncommon. The straight four-year path leading to career clarity is the exception rather than the rule.

So, if you are a parent of a child who is unsure about their next steps after high school, I want you to know that you are not alone. You are not a bad parent. Your child may come to realize that education and learning are marathons, not sprints.

Let's support our children as they navigate their unique paths, understanding that their journey may unfold differently from others. Encourage exploration, foster a love for learning, and embrace the idea that success is not always defined by a linear college experience.

Together, let's celebrate the individuality of our children's educational journeys and empower them to find their own paths to success. ‍

‍