Devhin Hansen’s dream of becoming a successful business owner drove him to want to be an entrepreneur from the early days of his college experience. However, he soon realized that the introductory business classes were not essential to his goals. After hearing about the growing earnings gap between college graduates and those without degrees, he chose to drop out and pursue his dream without a diploma.
While conventional wisdom suggests that a college degree is the path to a successful career, some experts believe that traditional education systems are struggling to keep up with the rapidly changing job market. Entrepreneurs like Hansen, who left college, have found that practical experience can be more beneficial in running their businesses than academic knowledge.
Hansen’s success story is not unique. He founded two auto shops after dropping out of college and realized that his experience in the field was more valuable than what he could have learned in the classroom. His journey showcases how real-world experience can be a powerful tool for young entrepreneurs.
Jon Meyers, an Oregon-based photographer, followed a similar path. Although he took business classes in college, he realized that he didn’t need a degree to run his photography studio. His decision to start his own business after leaving college ultimately led to a thriving photography career.
Athena Ortmann, an entrepreneur who launched her photography business in high school, expanded her network after graduating. She believed that finding her passion early in life was more important than getting a degree. While she acknowledges the value of a degree for certain career paths, she emphasizes the importance of pursuing one’s passions.
In conclusion, these entrepreneurs demonstrate that a college degree is not a one-size-fits-all solution for success. Experience, passion, and practical knowledge can be just as valuable or even more so than academic qualifications. The key is to find one’s niche, build valuable relationships, and focus on what one truly loves to do. Whether or not to attend college is a decision that depends on individual goals and career paths.
