How COVID-19 Has Affected Education System

Image by David Mark from Pixabay

When the COVID-19 pandemic came about in 2020, it hit everyone like a ton of bricks, including myself. I was actually in my last semester of undergrad, 2 months away from graduation to be exact. But that’s another story. I want to talk about how covid had affected education, how it has changed since then, and what it could be for the future.

More Virtual Options

Online programs were available before, but since the pandemic, virtual school and online programs have become more widespread across the country. Over the years, graduate and professional schools have extended the fully or partially online program options. Which could possibly be the future of education. This makes it easily accessible and more compatible for students who may be struggling, working, or that have family obligations.

This has also opened the door for more virtual job opportunities.

According to Pew Research Center, of roughly six-in-ten U.S. workers who say their jobs can mainly be done from home, 59% are working from home all or most of the time.

Is Education Needed To Become Successful?

Although the four-year degree has been a default for many, since 2020, a lot of people have decided that it’s not the right path for them.

Trading school, skill certificates, and entrepreneurial roles have all become a more popular thing. With the internet being so accessible, it’s easier than ever to start a business and even more resources for it to take off.

At the end of the day, everyone has their own definition of success. So it all depends on what you define as success. What works for you may not work for others.

The Economy Has Made College More Expensive

College was already a questionable move for those who do not have the proper resources to go to college straight out of high school. Since 2020 and inflation, tons of people aren’t able to afford education, let alone gas or groceries.

The cost of living is at an all-time high, gas prices are fluctuating, and groceries are not as affordable these days, which makes college the last thing on the agenda for most people.

Unless you have the option to go to school for free or are able to pay out of pocket, it just does not seem doable.

People are taking apps like Tik Tok and Instagram to fill their pockets and become what they use to call an “overnight sensation” and what we now call “viral”. And once you become viral, opportunities start knocking at your door. School can become the last thing on your mind when you feel an ounce of success without it.

Is it worth the long-term debt?