Theory
It is interesting to read commentary from people who believe that a college education is not necessary to be successful. There has been an in-depth debate on both sides of the issue, and there are obvious pros and cons to graduating with a degree, and giving business the old college try without the college education. I want to sort of dance around the issue a bit, and refrain from immersing myself in the debate any further than I have already on other websites. Primarily, I would like to address one of the most common “excuses” or reasons that people give that support the idea that no formal education is needed to succeed in business.
I have read in many articles, posts, comments, etc. that a formal education is useless, mainly because a student just sits in a classroom and is indoctrinated with all sorts of theory. Rather than learn theory, many people would rather have the student gain real life experience, and let the experience shape the theory. Not a bad idea (theory?). One could argue though, that learning the theory first could shape a more mistake free experience when it comes time to go hands on. Once again, the pros and cons seem to balance each other out.
One of the most interesting issues that is prevalent amongst those who decry formal education because of theory is their passage of their own theory to others who look up to them. Based upon their own logic, would it not make sense to just write intensive how-to guides to create real-life experience, rather than communicate their ideas and teach their students their theory?
Again, the debate is rather evenly balanced. People in PhD programs have had tremendous success, as have those who dropped out of or have forgone formal education. The most logical theory (more of a conclusion) that I have been able to develop as a result is this: The success of a person lies within their personal drive and motivation to achieve success. If a college student wants success, they will find a way while they are in school - whether through extracurricular clubs, internships, or personal ventures to gain practical experience in coalition with their learning of business theory. Likewise, the drop out will seek out and pursue books, mentors, and other medium to gain education and theory in addition to getting an early start on their real world experience.
What say you?
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