Additional Coverage:
- I’m not paying for my kids’ college tuition unless they want to be doctors or lawyers. Money isn’t the issue — the ROI has to be worth it. (newsbreak.com)
Bobby Kittleberger, a 37-year-old father of six and entrepreneur from Staunton, Virginia, has made a resolute decision regarding the education of his children: he will only finance their college education if they pursue careers that necessitate a degree. Kittleberger’s unique stance is informed by his own experiences and beliefs regarding the real value of a college education in terms of financial return on investment (ROI).
Kittleberger, who earned a degree in computer science unrelated to his current career trajectory, actively encourages his children, aged between 5 and 11, to assess the necessity and returns of higher education. He is open to funding their studies in specific fields such as medicine or law, where a degree is indispensable. He’s also shown willingness to consider supporting other vocations, like veterinary medicine, on an individual basis.
Despite the family’s comfortable six-figure income, Kittleberger’s choice is not financially motivated. Instead, he seeks to instill in his children a sense of financial responsibility that transcends the conventional college route. This includes earning money independently and explorimg careers that may no longer require formal education, thanks to the wealth of information and learning resources available online.
His decision also goes beyond practical financial considerations to challenge the broader cultural expectations and perceived benefits of college life. Kittleberger argues that the structured environment of college doesn’t truly prepare students for the realities of adult life and financial independence.
His wife, a teacher’s aide with a degree in public health administration, tends to view college more favorably, particularly for the life skills it can provide. However, the couple generally agrees and plans to take their children’s learning preferences into account when making educational decisions.
Ultimately, Kittleberger wishes for his children to make well-considered choices about their education, hoping to guide them into lives of financial sensibility and independence, whether they attend college or not.