Free vs. paid college education: Which option is better?

Going to college is a big decision for many students, with them starting a life away from their families, choosing a major, and facing other changes that come with this milestone. Victor Restis also notes that going to college can be costly. While qualified students can avail scholarships, more students need to pay for their tuition through savings or loans. It can be helpful to go to a university that offers a free college education.

Attending a university that offers free education can benefit low-income students who might need to work during their stay in college and those who need to save as much as possible. But for students who still aren't clear which direction they would like to take in the future, studying for free might not be the best decision in the long run. Instead of pursuing what they truly want, they might feel "indebted" to their sponsors or the system. In the end, others might not use what they have learned once they enter the real world.

On the other hand, Victor Restis shares that paid college education can be treated as an investment. Many parents need to save up to send their children to school, and sometimes they have no choice but to pay for it out of pocket. While this may mean debt in the end, some say that it's worth the investment if it means a better future for their child.

At the end of the day, it's about the student's readiness for college and how they will apply their education in the real world. While both options have their benefits, the reality is that it is becoming increasingly more difficult for American families to afford college. Thus, college-bound students (and their parents) should be considering all options, including community colleges and free education.

Although both can bring value to the table, one must consider what they are looking for in higher education. Is it just about obtaining a degree or for other purposes?