Perhaps I could contribute a unique perspective on this topic. I dropped out of college and worked at a few refineries in NorCal in the 90’s as a union laborer. All the older workers (in their 50’s) told me to go back to college…that even though I was making $40K+, it wasn’t worth it. As union carpenters/iron workers they were pulling in over $50K at the time plus full pensions (brand new 2000 sq ft homes in the area at the time were selling for ~$180K). These guys looked like they were in their 60’s so I considered the cost/benefit analysis and realized that I should listen to them. So I did, and obtained a Bachelors in Chemistry, then a Masters. Now, 20 years later I am finally making what they made then. So, I ask what did I do wrong? I believe I should have stayed as a blue collar worker (and wore sunblock). Indeed, I would be in a much more financially stable position now.
