Dropping out is a big decision

📖 Note: This post is from the archives. It may reflect outdated views or a previous name.

“I seldom end up where I wanted to go, but always end up where I need to be” — Douglas Adams

Before I decided to drop out of high school, I was chasing a degree in computer engineering and psychology. I was pursuing this major because I loved the topics, but I was pursuing the degree because I was told to. I believed that the only way to success was an expensive piece of paper and the connections that came with it. I believed this until I opened my mind to alternative paths.

The issue with the traditional education system is that we are teaching our youth to hate school — to hate learning. Students spend the majority of their youth in a classroom yet most schools tailor the curriculum for auditory and visual learners only. Because I am a kinaesthetic learner — I struggled to fulfil my teachers demands, but when I embraced my learning style I started to translate auditory and visual lessons into practical knowledge. I no longer had problems with my teachers and started to receive A’s and B’s in most of my classes. I took my education into my own hands because our education system was not prepared to.

I stopped to think about what I really wanted in life and if a degree was really necessary. I came to the conclusion that I was chasing a degree because society told me it was the best thing for me. I didn’t even sit back to think about what I wanted until then. I realized that I am capable of anything and an expensive piece of paper will not help or hinder my chances of success. I have come a long way since dropping out last October, but I still have a long way to go.

I will not let anything get in my way and when it inevitably does. I will find a way around each obstacle. Dropping out is a big decision and is not for everybody, but I urge you to ask yourself if university is the right path for you.