Going to college is NOT "white" in action; going to college is about making a future for yourself and your possible future family. It's about learning of the world around you and how to get over in a society that values education, not "whites only."

Black friends pressuring you to avoid college and get a job or role some dope? Let it go, that lifestyle last for so long and then it's over. An education last for a lifetime and helps secure a promising future. Thinking about rapping or dancing on the video scene as a career? Many others would like to also, but those chances come far and in between.

In the meantime, get an education and improve yourself. Regardless of how old you are, college is always an option. If you are still not convinced that a higher education is not for a select few, maybe some of the 7 excuses below may help you think otherwise.

1. "I can't go to college -- nobody in my family has ever gone." In every family, someone has to be first. Why not you? True, being first can be hard. For instance, you may have to explain to the family why college is important to you. On the other hand, being first is likely to be a source of pride, for you and for your family.

2. "I've been in school for 12 years. That's enough! I just want a good job." Give college a chance. It's not like high school or junior high. For one thing, in college you pick a major -- a subject area that you want to learn about. As for that good job -- the best jobs and the best salaries go to college grads.

3. "I can't go to college because I can't afford it." Most students get financial aid to help pay for college, and most aid is based on need. This means that the less money you have, the more aid you might get.

4. "I can't go because I don't know how to apply or where I want to go." Try to visit colleges that interest you. Keep at it. After a while, you'll get a feel for differences among colleges, and start to know what you want.

5. "I can't go to college -- I don't know what I want to do with my life." Join the crowd. Thousands of college freshmen haven't decided on a major or on a career. That's how college helps. It exposes you to all sorts of subjects you've never heard of before. College is a great place to learn more about careers you'll love for life.

6. "I can't go to college, because I just won't fit in." Not so. Most colleges have students from many backgrounds. Homesick? Need a hand? Look for people with your interests or your background in the African-American club, on the soccer field, or in a Korean study group. Remember, college is a great place to meet new kinds of people with different lifestyles. And the more people you understand and feel comfortable with, the better prepared you'll be for the world after college.

7. "College is too hard for me." Most students worry about being good enough for college, so you're not alone. One idea: In high school, don't just study -- learn how to study. Most good students have strategies for studying. Once you learn how to study, chances are you'll do fine. Still need help? Professors are really helpful, and so are tutors.

© 2003 by AfroStaff