From student to worker

I agree that financial institutions are making money off of college students. I agree that the cost of higher education in America is stupid.
Ever since the government reduced subsidies to colleges, prices have skyrocketed.

People rarely talk to children about credit and it's affect on their lives. Which is why they're ripe when they move away from home and have to make financial decisions by themselves.
People rarely promote community college has a cheaper and valid alternative to a four year expensive school.

Now I'm going to be that guy. When I was deciding to go to college, the one thing that scared me more than anything was student loans. For whatever reason, I thought that this was the worse idea. I ended up joining the Navy. I know a lot of people won't respect that decision, and I really don't care. But, I got an education and money to further my education.

Higher education is a big deal. It's still a good investment if you do it right. Much better to have a viable degree than just a high school diploma.
A big problem in today's job market is that people aren't qualified for the jobs that are out there.
I like the idea of businesses working with colleges to help students get the education they need.

The best advice I could give is this,
Start volunteering early during K-12. Get a summer job as soon as you can. Start earning your own money and learn about managing that money.
I'd encourage kids to apply for every grant and scholarship they can, even if they don't think they qualify.
Go to a cheap community college or take cheap online courses and get the core classes and drunken sex out of the way.

Take a little time to look at the job market and see what interests them first. Volunteer in industries that catch their eye.
Once they find something that pulls them, go to the HR department of a couple of businesses and find out what education background they're looking for. Find out what education benefits they give their employees.
Tailor your education to the career you wish to pursue.
Check in at least every quarter to keep up with changes in the industry.
Seek out companies that provide tuition assistance or pay for certificates and licenses.

If you can't figure out what you want to do, postpone college.
Learn a trade, get a license or certificate in a field that interests you.

Realize that you will have to start from the bottom and work your way up.
You will not be making the money you want to make when you first enter the workforce.
Time and Hard work is the key to increased pay. The only way around that is knowing the right people.
Remember to network when you volunteer/intern or work part time jobs.

As for those who already have student debt. sucks.
I can't get down with loan forgiveness or defaulting on loans.
I would like to see Work-Study programs completely replace loan programs.
If we had to keep some loan programs, I'd like to see a zero interest rate for government loans.
I'd like to see a Tuition reimbursement for community service program for people who already have student debt.
Tuition would be reimbursed for every year of community service