This piece is part of my 2016–2026 archive migration. Some original formatting, content, and external links may be missing, changed, or not be optimized.
An Alternative To Helping Your Kids With School
I successfully paid my way through school; I would if I had to do it again.
Here’s why…
I developed financial independence early, which some college kids don’t have or never develop until later.
I had to take my education into my own hands, making the experience even more valuable and increasing my stake in my future.
I was determined to obtain a solid-paying job to help me pay off my student loans early. I refused to allow student loans to be a financial stressor.
Once I graduated college, I pursued a job that would allow me to live comfortably, pay all my bills and expenses, and afford me opportunities to continue investing, build an emergency fund, and pay down my student loans.
I paid off my mother’s parents plus loan early, and I never had to ask my parents for money or use them to fund my life, which gave them both the opportunity to focus on their financial health.
What am I saying?
I did pretty damn well with not having my parents pay for my school. And I wish less parents focused on paying their for their kids college education. Instead, they should be more concerned about funding their financial futures and their dreams.
The Only Time It Makes Sense To Pay For Your Kid’s School
Before you pay for your kid’s school, you need to have a few things in place:
You should be on track with your retirement. You should not be behind. If you’re behind, don’t save for your kid’s college.
You should have a 6–12 month emergency fund. If you don’t have this, say no to saving for your kid’s college.
You should have zero credit card, personal, and student loan debt. If you have these, say no to paying for your kid’s college.
What are your dreams? Are there specific places you want to visit? Do you want to start a business? If so, make it happen before paying for your kid’s college.
If these things are on track, you can save for your kid’s college education.
But here’s how to do it properly.
If you want to pay for your kids’ school, let them take out student loans, pursue scholarships, or work their way through school as their schedule allows.
After they graduate, surprise them by paying any of their student debt.
Now that’s an epic gift.
What this does is cultivate work ethic, financial independence, and responsibility.
It also teaches them that nothing comes for free in this world; you got to work for it.
I Made 70K Straight Out Of College
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.