I saw a job open up that I was qualified for in the real world. I had all the credentials in the work environment and successes that no one believed possible as a pregnant college dropout 11 years ago. Published books, multiple front page news articles, promotion to weekly columnist, an award-winning radio program, and a reach across platforms with millions of women able to read my content. I had spoken at women’s conferences and events, even in front of a church congregation several times.
But I wasn’t qualified, because there was a certain piece of paper I didn’t possess. I wasn’t even considered because I didn’t have the degree required for the job.
This fall, many teens are heading to colleges that fill them with hopes and dreams of being successful.
But is that what’s best for all of them?
Do all of them need to attend college?
Are we assuming work ethic and degree coexist with the reality that our children will only be successful if they walk across that stage?
Are employers living in a daydream or a prehistoric era that wants passing a test to be more important than grit, creativity, problem-solving, and work ethic?
Are there parents out there ashamed because they couldn’t afford to send their child to a fancy university, or even to any college?
Are there teens out there being convinced their intrinsic value is tied to this piece of paper?
For some, a degree is necessary, but I made a list to remind us of a truth so many desperately need to hear: Your character and ethic will be present in whatever work you do. Your work will always speak above the title.
Creativity cannot be shown or judged by a stamp of university approval. Creativity is viewed, not graded.
Having integrity and working with honesty and transparency show courage and confidence.
A bank account will never clarify your worth—it only magnifies what your heart is filled with.
The world is volatile, so take healthy risks.
You can lose almost everything, so hold it with open hands.
Your title doesn’t define your worth.
Your job is not your identity.
The Bible is filled with the most unqualified people to do His work, because they were willing to do whatever He asked.
How you do something is more important than doing it.
A degree is not required for you to be a great person.
You’re a great person because you are authentically you.
And mamas, your kids are still great kids—even if they never walk across that graduation stage again.
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” (Psalm 139:14)
by Jessica Scott 
by Whitney Fleming 
by Jenny Rapson 
