While I’m on my journey to early retirement, the two things I still have to seriously consider is healthcare and my kids college. Do I have enough to support the costs of healthcare for my family and be able to support my children through college? My daughter is about to go into high school and I’ve been exposed to a number of programs that are being offered that I’m very excited about that can help her get an early start to college with zero cost.

When I went to high school I took Advanced Placement (AP) courses to get college credits. I’m glad to see that it’s still available in high school and not only that, it’s available as early as 9th grade. You have take a test but the fact that you can earn towards college credit in high school will kick start your college education.

Not just AP courses, I’ve been exposed to other programs that focus on certain industries like aviation, healthcare, IT, and so on. Some of these programs have a curriculum where by the time you graduate from high school, you will have earned a college AA degree. That could easily transfer to a university or you could start your career right afterwards. These programs in my area are at no cost!

These programs are rigorous from what I hear. You’re asking a high school student to take college level courses. One thing I want to have my children realize is that college isn’t free and college isn’t cheap. If an opportunity exists that will help alleviate taking out loans or having to borrow any money, it’s going to help in the long run. You’ll minimalize having student debt so after you graduate, you can focus on living, not paying the money back.

There is a sacrifice. Like I said it’s a tough curriculum. There will be nights of less sleep. There could be high school activities that you won’t have time to participate in. I encourage my children to way the pros and cons and let them ultimately decide. Of course, I give them my opinion and advice.

I’m not asking my children to skip college or miss out on college life. I’m asking them to consider the financial impacts and the potential opportunities that can assist with the cost of college.

It may be tough but it will give them a head start. I remember after I graduated from college having to pay back student loans. There are more opportunities these days and our children have to realize the value of them. I’m sure as my children go through high school, more opportunities will become available. If you are interested in following my journey, email subscribe to get alerts of latest posts or follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.

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