Not sole key to success

That most people choose to earn a college diploma despite the steep costs involved instead of taking a vocational course which is a cheaper, time-saving and wealth-producing option, just proves that society has a higher regard for college education.

Since we were young, our teachers have planted in our minds that only a college degree will open the doors to success and a raised status in society. We have been programmed that there is no other way to be at par with others than to achieve a college degree, and never mind drowning in student loans and exhausting our mind, body and soul for a couple more years. We have been mistakenly informed that a piece of paper with our name on it is more valuable than practical skills and talent.

I am not against tertiary education. In fact I am graduating from college in April. I just want to negate the idea that having a college degree is the only way to be successful. I only want to reprogram, if I can, the minds of those who have been convinced that a college degree weighs more than one’s capabilities. No one should be limited by one’s formal education, or lack of it. No one should be prejudged in a job application just because one’s resumé doesn’t indicate high educational attainment.

Mark Zuckerberg (Facebook), Bill Gates (Microsoft) and Steve Jobs (Apple) are only a few of the billionaires who have proved that success is possible even without a college degree. But more than these three men, I have someone so close to me who can testify that not completing a college course is not a hindrance to success.

My brother, Lester Juridico, defines success as “doing more than what people say you can’t do, living a God-given purpose, and making others happy.” He is the most successful guy I know.

Lester did not reach college. He completed high school by passing the ALS (Alternative Learning System) acceleration exam. Many people, including some of our relatives, thought he would not be able to get a job because he had not learned the book-based knowledge taught for four years in high school.

But Lester was determined. He didn’t let his perceived weakness overcome his strength. He taught himself by reading books as well as educational materials on the Internet. He improved his communication skills. He believed in himself.

He applied to a business process outsourcing company. Because of his determination, skills and confidence, he was accepted and for four years he has been our family’s breadwinner. He was able to free himself from the cage in which other people have put him in order to limit him.

Now Lester makes more than what his former classmates, who went on to graduate from college, are making. He enjoys life and can buy the things he wants.  He supports us and makes us happy. His earnings are not in the billions, but he lives the life of a successful person.

Lester’s story is a success story. It proves that even if someone is not able to complete a college degree, he or she still has opportunities to make the best out of life.

A college degree is important, but practical skills are more so. A diploma can be your gateway to success, but your confidence, motivation and skills are what will help you make the cut. Remember: Learning is different from completing a degree. Learning will equip you with skills, a degree will give you only a piece of paper.

Algie Juridico, 20, a special education student at Centro Escolar University-Malolos, is the managing editor of The Malolos Academe.