I Dropped Out of College! Now What? Things to do if You Drop Out

 

 

So, you’ve dropped out of college. Well, you certainly are not alone. You and many others in your position are now wondering. I quit college, now what? Well, first it isn’t the end of the world. This is a good time to take a step back and figure a few things out. Then, you can plan your next steps as you navigate life moving forward.

There Are Many Reasons To Drop Out of College: Let’s Figure Out Yours

Before you do anything else, you should pinpoint the primary cause behind your decision to leave higher education. By understanding your reasoning, you can plan for your future whether that includes continuing your education in the future or selecting a different path entirely. Here are some of the common reasons to drop out of college.

• They are unable to keep up with the academic requirements to complete their degrees.

• They are a college dropout due to stress or other mental health issues.

• They have too many debts and must return to work.

• They cannot afford tuition and expenses and are unable or unwilling to get loans.

• They don’t have family or community support in getting their degree.

• Pregnancy, health issues, or family obligations prevent them from staying in school.

• They face inequality or lack of support within the school system.

• They drop out because they realize that college may not be the path for them.

There are many other reasons that students may drop out as a sophomore or at any other grade level. The key is to examine what it was that drove you to decide that you should drop out.

How Many People Drop Out of College? You Are Not Alone

According to some statistics, the six-year graduation rate for full-time students is only 59%. This means that more than 40% of undergraduates at colleges and universities will become dropouts. These numbers can mean many things. There is often pressure from the previous generation that stress college as the only option. This leads to freshmen entering college who are doomed to failure because they aren’t prepared or college is simply not for them.

Examining Your Options After Dropping Out of College

Is dropping out of college bad? Not always. That depends on your reasons for doing so. Let’s explore some steps you can take after you have made the decision to quit college.

Explore Your Financial Options

It’s an unfortunate fact that many students have to drop out of school for financial reasons. Fortunately, there are options that may help you cover any financial gaps. First, you can apply for financial aid. You can also inquire about work-study programs. Then there are scholarships. For some, private loans may be an option. Some schools even offer financing options where you pay off your tuition in multiple payments rather than all at once.

Don’t let money stop you from getting an education. Consider public universities over private. Attend school part-time. Look into your local community college. They often have very affordable tuition and can be an excellent way to get in your first year or two of school.

Look Into Alternative Forms of Training And Education

College may not be for you, but getting an education can still be in the cards. If sitting in a classroom is unbearable, consider pursuing an internship. If you have a talent for arts and crafts, join a guild and learn from others. There are also plenty of opportunities to learn online. Khan Academy, Coursera, W3 schools, and EdX all have courses available for free. These cover a wide range of subjects. Even if you are still a teen, you can sign up for these classes.

Consider a Gap Year

It can be difficult to transition to college right after high school. You may also find that you need time off between years. For many, taking a gap year after their sophomore year is a good choice. It gives them time to gain some life experience, volunteer, etc. before heading into their upper division classes. Students spend gap years, traveling, meeting new people, learning about other cultures, and volunteering.

Investigate Colleges that Maybe a Better Fit

If you are still committed to completing your education, consider spending some time in 2018 exploring schools that will work with you to ensure your successful return. Applying to college after dropping out can be complicated. Schools will want to know why you dropped out. If your dropping out resulted in failing grades or issues with financial aid, they may want assurance that you have taken steps to ensure that you will be successful. Depending on your reasons for dropping out and your current situation, you may be placed on financial aid probation, academic probation, or both. Fortunately, once you have finished a semester or two successfully, you will be returned to the normal student standing as. You just need to maintain a good grade point average. In the event that your quitting school has an effect on your ability to earn admission to schools with competitive enrollment, you can always look to community colleges.

If academics are a struggle for you, keep in mind that graduates are most successful in school if they make use of all resources that are available to them. This includes on-campus tutoring and seeking help from professors. In addition to this, outside help is also available. There are many great success stories from students who have used paid tutors or academic writing services. A college senior or grad student may be willing to help you at very reasonable rates. To find a writing service with the highest percentage of satisfaction, check out our top ten paper writing services. Remember that colleges benefit if they have high retention numbers. There are people who will help you succeed.

Conclusion: Follow Your Dreams

If college is your dream, there are ways to make it happen. If you have another path, that is fine as well. Perhaps you are the next great entrepreneur. Maybe you will find your way working with your hands and creating amazing things. They key is having a plan and deliberately creating a path to success and happiness.