Do most people go to college?

Hi all, I've been thinking a lot about my upcoming decisions regarding higher education. I was wondering, is it still the norm that most people go to college? Is there any recent data or even just general sentiment about this?

Looking at recent statistics, it's evident that post-secondary education has increasingly become more common over the past few years. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, it's been observed that around 69.8% of high school graduates enrolled in colleges or universities in 2020. However, it's important to note that 'college' includes all forms of post-secondary education: four-year universities, community colleges, vocational/technical schools, etc.

Aside from statistics, it's prominent in societal expectations that attending college is perceived as a valuable next step after finishing high school. This belief is bolstered by the generally higher lifetime earning potential of those with a college degree compared to those without.

But it's equally crucial to remember that college isn't for everyone and it's only one of many paths you can pursue post-high school. The military, vocational training, apprenticeships, or entering the workforce directly are also viable options. Each path has its own merits and can lead to successful outcomes. Therefore, your decision should primarily be based on your personal aspirations, goals, and circumstances.