Hi there! I’m pretty sure this question has been asked a dozen times on here, but I’m in a position where I could finish my Communication degree at UCLA in 3 years (it’s a pretty short major). So of course I’m thinking, it’d be great to save money but also college is great and I don’t know if I feel prepared to enter the workforce yet. I’d like to hear from other people who have been in a situation where they could make this choice, and what happened? Or just people who have insight. Thanks!
Can you afford to stay another year?
How would you be paying for the fourth year in school? Are you or your parents taking on debt. If so, graduate early.
What would you accomplish by staying at college another year? Could you take classes toward a masters degree? Or would you just be having wasting a year when you could be earning a paycheck and doing new things?
My daughter is a recent grad, having finished in three years. The downside was not graduating with her friend group who all graduate next spring. The upside is that she’s working at a dream job, earning a paycheck, and having fun.
If you can afford the 4th year, my recommendation is stay in college your senior year. You are a college student only once in your life, try to enjoy and take in the experience. You have your whole life to work in your chosen career. In addition, there is something very special about graduating with your peers and friends. This might be a cliche, but I firmly believe the journey is just as important as the destination.