You can tell this is an ancient meme because it prices college at 4 years at $9,000 per year instead of 5 years at $30,000 per year ๐
It is valid path for some, maybe even for majority of people, but not for all. If you have smarts then college->undergrad-graduate school can lead you to the job of your dreams and well paid on top of this. For example, if you excel in math and physics, and want to be a rocket scientist, by all means, take a shot. Even if you miss, lots of STEM jobs pay well in industry.