From the time that we are in elementary school, students are always encouraged to go to college, and in some cases are even told that college is the way to go. The reasoning for this is typical, it is believed that in order to get a good job, you need a college education. But the sad reality is that many young adults can't afford college even if they wanted to, and some just aren't cut out for it.
College is a big responsibility. No matter how much they try to prepare you for college in high school, it doesn't even scratch the surface. College is a whole new ballgame, and it's up to you to succeed in it. But that doesn't mean we should shame those who choose not to participate. Frankly, I can't blame them, to be honest. College is expensive. College is stressful to the point where you even wonder if it's worth it. The success you have in college solely depends on the person.
It's perfectly okay if people cannot handle college because of their home life or mental health. It's also perfectly fine if they wish to pursue their dreams without involving college in it.
I have friends that I am so proud of because they decided to put themselves before their education. The thing about higher education is that you can always go back and complete it if you wish to. There are people at 80 years old getting their degree. College isn't something that you have to complete when you are young or even something you have to complete at all. It's all a personal choice. College is always something that can wait.