Don't Believe the Myths
MYTH: "You have to choose between college or the trades."
FACT:
Both have value.
- Many fast-growing, well-paying positions require certification, not necessarily a bachelor’s degree. For example:
- Healthcare technologists and technicians
- Occupational and physical therapy assistants
- Production workers in advanced manufacturing
MYTH: “College is only for wealthy families.”
FACT:
Tuition appears high, but what students actually pay is much lower.
- 97% of NEI students get financial aid.
- $70M in aid goes unclaimed yearly.
- Many aid programs are underutilized, especially by those who mistakenly believe they don’t qualify.
MYTH: “Student debt is crippling and should always be avoided"
FACT:
More than half of Indiana college grads took out loans.
- The average debt was $28,521—a manageable level for many.
- Many jobs for college grads pay well above the average wage ($34.28/hour).
- Students can avoid or reduce debt by using grants, scholarships, employer tuition programs, or starting with certificates and community college.
MYTH: “College isn’t worth the cost."
FACT:
The payoff is long-term, but very significant.
- Bachelor’s degree holders typically earn $1 million more over their lifetime compared to high school graduates.
- In northeast Indiana, jobs requiring bachelor’s degrees are far outpacing openings for high school-only workers.
Myths Believed by Adult Learners
MYTH: “I can’t stop working to go to college.”
FACT:
Earn while you learn.
- You don’t have to quit your job to move forward. Flexible programs let you learn on your schedule—and some even pay you while you train.
- Stack certifications into degree credits.
MYTH: “Schools won’t respect my experience.”
FACT:
Your service counts.
- Many colleges are veteran friendly
- Credit for military service helps you finish faster
- Military experience often aligns with in-demand careers like logistics, healthcare, IT, and advanced manufacturing
- GI Bill benefits can be used for college, trade schools, and certification programs.
- Use your benefits part-time or online to fit your schedule.
MYTH: “Business school doesn’t connect to real life.”
FACT:
Foremen can become Founders
- With the right knowledge, you can build your own company.
- Short-term, targeted business programs exist.
- Stackable credentials help entrepreneurs compete.
MYTH: “It’s too late to go back.”
FACT:
It’s never too late to reinvent yourself.
- Many programs grant credit for prior learning.
- Employers offer tuition benefits, but <5% of workers use them.
- Today's best jobs require new skills throughout your career.
MYTH: “My past credits are wasted.”
FACT:
Your experience matters. Learning is never wasted.
- Many programs give credit for prior learning and work.
- Credits can often transfer.
MYTH: “I’m too old to retrain.”
FACT:
Lifelong learning is the new normal.
- Adults of all ages can retrain successfully.
- Short-term, flexible training can strengthen job security
MYTH: “I’m stuck. I can’t just start over”
FACT:
You deserve better.
- Short-term, flexible training can lead to a career you love.
- Formal business credentials expand opportunities.
- You are not alone. Many mid-career adults are exploring this same path.