The question of whether to attend college is a complex one, with no straightforward answer. While a college degree can be a valuable asset, it’s not the right choice for everyone. In fact, the decision to attend college depends on a variety of factors, including a student’s goals, personality, finances, and risk tolerance.
Seeking Advice from Chatbots
To gain some insight into this issue, researchers asked several chatbots, including ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Grok, for their advice on whether to attend college. The chatbots were queried in incognito mode with the simple prompt: “Should I go to college?”
The good news is that the chatbots provided decent advice, with none of them suggesting that college is the only path to success. Instead, they offered subtle responses that took into account the individual’s circumstances and goals.
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Grok, in particular, did a nice job of discussing the tradeoffs and pros and cons of attending college. It noted that bachelor’s degree holders earn approximately 60 percent more than high school graduates on average, with a lifetime premium often exceeding $1 million. However, it also highlighted the potential drawbacks, including the cost and debt associated with attending college.
The Case for and Against College
The chatbots presented a balanced view of the issue, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of attending college. On the one hand, they noted that college can provide better access to jobs with health insurance, retirement benefits, and career mobility. Many professional fields, such as engineering, medicine, and law, effectively require a college degree.
On the other hand, they pointed out that the cost and debt associated with attending college can be significant, with average bachelor’s debt ranging from $29,000 to $43,000. Additionally, they noted that non-degree paths, such as trades and apprenticeships, can be a viable alternative, allowing individuals to earn while learning with little to no debt.
The chatbots also emphasized the importance of choosing a major that is in demand and has good job prospects. For example, engineering, computer science, and nursing tend to pay back quickly, while arts, humanities, and education may take longer to generate a return on investment.
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Considering Alternative Paths
The chatbots suggested that there are many legitimate paths to success beyond attending a four-year college. These include community college, trade programs, apprenticeships, and certifications. They also encouraged individuals to consider their alternatives and ask themselves questions such as: What kind of work do I want to do? Do I enjoy academic learning? What’s the financial picture?
ChatGPT, in particular, provided a helpful framework for weighing the options, asking individuals to consider their interests, financial situation, and goals. It noted that it can help individuals weigh whether college, trade school, a gap year, or another path seems like the strongest fit for their situation.
Despite this, the chatbots’ advice was generally reasonable and subtle, acknowledging that the decision to attend college is a complex one that depends on a variety of factors. As such, their responses provide a useful starting point for individuals who are considering their options and trying to make an informed decision.
