What are good arguments for or against going to college right after high school?
For my English class, we're supposed to write an argumentative essay about whether students should go straight to college after high school or take a different path, like working or taking a gap year. I'm having trouble figuring out which side to argue for, because there seem to be solid points both ways.
Personally, my parents always expected me to go to college right away, but some of my friends say they're exhausted and want a break. I get that college can open a lot of doors, but there's also the cost and burnout to think about.
Does anyone have ideas or personal experiences that might help me craft a strong essay for either side? What stats or examples did you use if your school made you write about this topic?
Personally, my parents always expected me to go to college right away, but some of my friends say they're exhausted and want a break. I get that college can open a lot of doors, but there's also the cost and burnout to think about.
Does anyone have ideas or personal experiences that might help me craft a strong essay for either side? What stats or examples did you use if your school made you write about this topic?
4 months ago
•
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Camille Luong
• 4 months ago
Advisor
You’re right that there are strong arguments for both going straight to college and taking another path after high school. Your essay will be stronger if you focus on points that are specific and supported by examples or studies. Here’s a breakdown for both sides, with examples and stats you might find helpful.
If you argue FOR going to college right after high school, you can focus on momentum and opportunity. After 12 years in an academic setting, students are used to the routine of homework, deadlines, and structured learning. Research shows that students who wait a year or more before enrolling are less likely to complete a degree. For example, a study from the National Center for Education Statistics found that students who delayed college enrollment were 64% as likely to finish their degree compared to those who enrolled immediately. Another point: some fields or scholarships require you to go straight from high school to college. Think about competitive programs where losing a year might set you behind peers. You could mention someone who went straight to college, built strong relationships with professors, and landed an internship through university connections.
On the other hand, if you argue AGAINST it, the main points are about combatting burnout, financial stability, clarity, and personal growth. Many students feel “academic fatigue” and going straight into another four years of intense study can be overwhelming. A productive gap year (working, interning, volunteering, or traveling with purpose) can help clarify goals and boost motivation. One example: Malia Obama took a gap year and used the time to travel and work, which she later said helped her approach Harvard with more maturity. Additionally, students who work for a year may save money and gain real-world perspective. According to the Gap Year Association, 90% of students who take a gap year go to college within a year, and many report improved performance and focus. Schools like Princeton and UNC actually encourage structured gap years, and studies have shown these students often have higher GPAs when they return.
You could also acknowledge that ultimately, it’s not one-size-fits-all. For example, if you’re responsible for helping your family or need to build up savings, delaying college can make sense. But if you thrive on structure and want to dive in while your study habits are strong, going straight to college could be the better choice.
For your essay, try using a real or hypothetical student as an example to illustrate your main argument. For instance: “After finishing high school, Maya felt burnt out. She spent a year working at a local non-profit, traveled to Peru, and gained both maturity and confidence. When she started college, she was more motivated in her classes and knew what she wanted to study.”
Pick the side you most relate to, or take a nuanced stance and argue both with a suggestion of what factors should influence such a big life decision.
If you argue FOR going to college right after high school, you can focus on momentum and opportunity. After 12 years in an academic setting, students are used to the routine of homework, deadlines, and structured learning. Research shows that students who wait a year or more before enrolling are less likely to complete a degree. For example, a study from the National Center for Education Statistics found that students who delayed college enrollment were 64% as likely to finish their degree compared to those who enrolled immediately. Another point: some fields or scholarships require you to go straight from high school to college. Think about competitive programs where losing a year might set you behind peers. You could mention someone who went straight to college, built strong relationships with professors, and landed an internship through university connections.
On the other hand, if you argue AGAINST it, the main points are about combatting burnout, financial stability, clarity, and personal growth. Many students feel “academic fatigue” and going straight into another four years of intense study can be overwhelming. A productive gap year (working, interning, volunteering, or traveling with purpose) can help clarify goals and boost motivation. One example: Malia Obama took a gap year and used the time to travel and work, which she later said helped her approach Harvard with more maturity. Additionally, students who work for a year may save money and gain real-world perspective. According to the Gap Year Association, 90% of students who take a gap year go to college within a year, and many report improved performance and focus. Schools like Princeton and UNC actually encourage structured gap years, and studies have shown these students often have higher GPAs when they return.
You could also acknowledge that ultimately, it’s not one-size-fits-all. For example, if you’re responsible for helping your family or need to build up savings, delaying college can make sense. But if you thrive on structure and want to dive in while your study habits are strong, going straight to college could be the better choice.
For your essay, try using a real or hypothetical student as an example to illustrate your main argument. For instance: “After finishing high school, Maya felt burnt out. She spent a year working at a local non-profit, traveled to Peru, and gained both maturity and confidence. When she started college, she was more motivated in her classes and knew what she wanted to study.”
Pick the side you most relate to, or take a nuanced stance and argue both with a suggestion of what factors should influence such a big life decision.
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Camille Luong
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