I think it’s safe to say that higher education may not be for everyone. This doesn’t imply that everyone shouldn’t have access to a higher education. There may be other motivations to satisfy one’s life passions. Everyone may not have the desire nor motivation to attend a traditional two- or four-year institution. However, in the current economic climate, on the average, a degree holds much more earning power than a diploma. This fact causes high school (and middle school) students to think about what type of college they will attend long before they are eligible.
Other alternatives include training programs, technical schools or the military within this number, saving time, effort, and resources. (another way to achieve an education with benefits). 
I find it very refreshing to hear youngsters talk about post-high school education. When it comes to the schools of choice, they can almost always explain why they want to attend a particular school (proximity to parents’ home, degrees offered, family alumni tradition, the chance to play sports, etc). It’s also very interesting that many don’t know or appear to be overly concerned with HOW MUCH it costs to attend. This is where many hearts get broken and dreams get derailed. Many families don’t plan for that moment of decision or don’t quite know where to seek help and depend on the traditional government funding.
When you go car shopping, do you look at a vehicle, test drive it, get comfortable and then ask how much it costs – and become disappointed that it’s not in your price range? A smart shopper will get pre-approved for an amount and