What I want to be when I grow up...

So, my daughter is in the process of looking at colleges and deciding where she wants to apply. I've asked her the question, "What do you want to be?" a number of times.

There has always been the expectation that she (and her brothers) will go to, and graduate, college right after high school. Where can you get these days without at least a Bachelors degree? A lack of one has caused me to hit a glass ceiling.

But is it truly the right advice to harp on getting a degree? Or should I emphasize the idea of finding out what she loves to do and then find a way to make career at that?

While it is true that a degree is often necessary, is it the only way to have a successful career? What's wrong with going to a vo-tech school (or equivalent) to get certified in a trade?

There will always be a need for HVAC technicians, car mechanics, plumbers, electricians, hair dressers, etc. I think that as a society we often push the idea that in order to be considered a success (or rich) that you have to have a degree and a white collar job.

I hope that she decides to go to a good college (with a great football team! Lol) and loves it. I hope that she chooses a career path that she will enjoy and excel at. I hope that she is happy. Not sure I can ask for much more than that.

As for me? I still don't know what I want to be when I grow up. ;) For now though, I'll settle for being a good father and husband, a good Chief and a successful real estate professional.