[Snickerdoodle]

I thought that was SEO spam. If I was recommending something to someone now, it would be to get into a "tangible" trade. Right now, a developer with decent experience has to compete with foreigners/AI. There's a lot of jobs that do not require a degree and have good salary, with less threat from externalities. AI hasn't replaced electricians, welders, or HVAC. Plenty of trades require training or certification, but not a degree.

If you do go to college, go to an affordable community college for pre-requisites and maintain a high GPA. Transfer to a state school for the last 2 years. Be aware of what your job prospects are and what the likely ROI is. If you can't see yourself with a job that requires the degree within a couple years after graduating, you're just burning money. If you have the foresight, a 5-year plan and a 10-year plan are excellent.

I got a degree with honors originally, but my current job didn't require it. Half the people I talk to today either don't have a degree or didn't need it.

I really agree. My first degree honestly was for fun, it was a bachelors in vet science, and then I did an absn for 1 1/2 years. When I joined the military and came back (i got medically separated) I started to do comp science because I was hoping to have a cool job that utilized my security clearance.

I do agree tho, trades are a solid stable to great careers that wont be getting replaced anytime soon. I also say the same for medical careers because there's so many things still that require the expertise and hands of real humans rather than AI or machines.