Torn between local 4-year university ($40k debt) or switching to WGU. Need advice.
Hey everyone,
I’m 19 and graduated high school in Spring 2024. I just finished my two years at a local community college and earned my Associate’s in IT. I was fully scheduled to transfer to a local four year university this Fall. However, in the last few months I have been really considering switching to WGU (well honestly pretty set on it but hesitant) to finish my bachelors.
The reason why I am so hesitant is because of how this route may seem super non traditional especially for someone my age. This model is new to me and I do definitely still have that standard fear of making the wrong choice. I still really think that given my circumstances, this choice sounds like one of the smartest things I can do right now.
Biggest reasons FOR going to WGU:
- Cost: I’ve been working almost full-time for the past year and a half to pay for my community college upfront in cash. The local four year university is going to cost me about $40k out of pocket for the next two years (and yes it is literally still the cheapest "traditional" college route I could do). My family can't contribute, but they make just enough that I don't qualify for any financial aid. I really want to avoid that debt and has been a serious goal of mine to not have any. (Also I already have enough cash currently to easily pay for WGU)
- Flexibility: I already work a decent amount, live at home, commute, and took a ton of online classes for my Associate's anyway, so I know I have the ability to do well with online learning.
Other:
Another aspect I want to bring up briefly is the societal acceptance of going to WGU. I know this is stupid but I feel quite embarrassed bringing up WGU to people. The reason for this is because everyone I know thinks I am going to this university in the fall (technically still scheduled to transfer but haven't signed up for classes and kind of of halted the process as of right now).
This reason why this is such an issue to me is that it comes off like something went wrong or I couldn't handle going to another university. Although I am the only one that truly understands my situation fully and why this is a good decision, if we are being real people don't get that and will think of you otherwise.
Has anyone else made this jump at a young age? How did you deal with the social aspect, and do you regret not taking the traditional route? GIVE ME REASSUREANCE!
If you want more information about my situation please leave a comment if that helps your response.
(Note: Looking into the Azure, Cloud and Network Engineering – B.S. if that helps)