Quick Answer: High-paying jobs without a degree do exist, as demonstrated by Bureau of Labor Statistics data on careers requiring only a high school diploma. However, 75 percent of people with student loans never graduated from college, making affordable two-year community college degrees a viable alternative path.
Student loan debt is crushing the dreams and futures of so many students. People are marching towards college with an expectation it will solve everything. The reality is Maybe You Should Not Go to College. Having a college degree can be a plus but keep in mind that about 75 percent of people with student loans never graduated from college.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics publishes information on the best careers for people with only a high school diploma.
Every weekday I read the enforcement actions, filings and fine print the outlets skip, and turn them into the one or two moves that actually improve your position — a rate worth moving for, a fee you can refuse, a deadline to beat before it costs you.
In the latest issue (Oct 6): When fear picks your debt plan
I write Your Money Actually most weekdays — actionable money information you will not find anywhere else, and the small decisions that compound. It is free, I sell nothing, and I take no money from any company I write about.
Even attending a local community college and obtaining a two-year degree which is very affordable can lead to good job prospects.
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Money you may be owed, scams to dodge, and the fine print decoded — the consumer money news that affects your wallet, every weekday.
Before You Sign Anything: Run any debt relief contract through the free Contract Decoder to spot hidden fees and unfair terms. Check the company’s complaint history with the Scam-O-Meter.
Compare Your Real Options: Most debt relief companies won’t tell you about all your options — especially the ones they can’t profit from. Credit counseling has a 21-27% completion rate. Settlement resolves about 1% of enrolled debts fully. Bankruptcy has a 95% discharge rate — and protects your retirement. Take the Find Your Path quiz for a recommendation based on your actual numbers.
