I left college this year because I wasn’t learning what I truly wanted. Ever since I was young, I dreamed of being an entrepreneur.
Most of my classmates said I should just find a good job and settle down, but I don’t want to spend my life working for someone else. I have a diploma in Computer Science but haven’t worked anywhere before. I lack the skills that would make companies want to hire me.
So I thought, why not take a year off and try something different? I dropped out, and while my parents weren’t thrilled, they were surprisingly supportive. They even bought me a good computer and some courses to help me learn coding.
I spend about 6-7 hours a day coding now. My plan is to take on some client work for local restaurants, building websites, and eventually start my own agency. I know it won’t be easy. I’ve learned more in the past two months than I did in my 2.5 years in college. But lately, I feel like I should be doing better, and it’s starting to weigh on me. Sometimes I think I made a really stupid choice.
What do you think? Did I really mess up? I’m looking for thoughts from people with an entrepreneurial mindset. Thanks for reading!
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It’s really important to finish your formal education while also gaining extra experience on the side. I managed to work two jobs while developing my skills. I started my own business later on and it has been quite a journey. If you’re willing to work hard and stay determined, go for it! Just remember, marketing your services is as crucial as your technical skills.
I’ve been there too. I got my degree but also started my own business. College doesn’t always provide everything you need. Still, not having a degree might hold you back in some areas. Since your parents support you, why not finish your degree? It could open doors to better opportunities than starting out on your own right now.
At 22, it’s completely fine to take risks and make mistakes. Those experiences are valuable lessons, and you’ve got plenty of time to learn and recover from them.
I didn’t finish my degrees until my mid-30s. I freelanced instead, and it worked out for me. While having a degree can help, it’s not the only path to success. You can learn so much online for free these days.
Education is not just about what you learn in class; it’s also about the connections you make. Building your network while in college can be just as important as the knowledge you gain.
You can take risks at 22. Don’t let someone older tell you you’re making mistakes. They might be envious because they didn’t take the chance you are taking.
I can relate to your situation, though I’m a bit younger. Have you ever thought about what you would do if you were in my shoes? How did you handle it back then?
Now that you’ve dropped out, stick to your plan for the next eight months. If it works out, great! If not, you can always finish your degree later while working on the side. Don’t overthink your choices; work hard and make the best of it.
Trying new things while you’re young is fine. Just remember that returning to school can be tougher once you’ve stepped away. Life keeps moving, and you might end up with obligations that make it hard to go back. Business is about relationships too, not just skills. Join local entrepreneur groups and meet others like you; you’ll gain a lot from those connections.
I find it hard to believe there’s a college that doesn’t teach business skills. Are you sure you couldn’t find what you wanted to learn there? What kind of courses did they offer?
Most successful entrepreneurs have years of experience before starting their own businesses. You’re going against people with a decade or more of experience. Maybe it would be better to finish your education, get some industry experience, and then consider starting your own venture.
I dropped out at 19 and tried to start a few businesses but failed. Eventually, I found a job in IT sales, then worked with some startups, and now I run my own business at 35. Just keep learning and hustling. College isn’t necessary if you’re motivated to learn on your own.
AI can build websites for free now, so keep in mind that creating websites isn’t the same as advanced coding. I created my first website 30 years ago. If you wanted to be an entrepreneur, why didn’t you start earlier? Many ideas can be pursued part-time. Don’t wait until you feel ready; start working as a contractor now to build contacts for your future company.