Book Review: “College is a Scam” by Disgruntled McGonagle

 

College is a Scam

 

 I must admit there were two things that made me buy this book and read it in one sitting: the clever cover and the intriguing, yet truly inspired pen name the author chose. And the quick, funny note: “Sponsored By: People for the Ethical Treatment of BROKE College Graduates” convinced me it would be a fun, relaxing read that would certainly remind me of my own college years. What I discovered in this short and very concise book was more than I expected: behind the author’s laid-back attitude and contagious humor, there is a bitter truth about higher education today.

Based on the author’s personal experience and interviews of successful and less successful college graduates, “College is a Scam” tries to show the unbalance between the financial costs of going to college and the educational and social benefits one has (or doesn’t have, for that matter) after graduating. Moreover, it tries to pinpoint some reasons for which this is happening and why college has turned into a very uninspired choice for many young people nowadays. Don’t get me wrong, this book’s purpose has nothing to do with discouraging those who want to go to college, but it raises some important questions that anyone should think of before making up their mind. As the author himself states, this is a crucial decision in a young person’s life and before making it, they should consider all options. Talking to family, friends and teachers is also important, and if they find a good source of information, like this book is, they should read it with an open mind and pass it forward to friends and colleagues.

I must say that, personally, I had a lot of fun in college and I have never regretted my time there. I loved my colleagues, my professors and the college life in general and I do believe it’s a great experience… if you can afford it. “College is a Scam” reminded me of some of my own frustrations, so I think it’s a great resource for those who are not sure if investing their money in college is the solution for the future they wish to build. This is a realistic and honest book that might change some people’s lives while showing all bad aspects of higher education in a funny light.

So, if you’re thinking of going to college, it would be a great idea to spend your first money you want to invest in your higher education on “College is a Scam”. You can find it at http://amzn.to/Vw2EIB or at http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/college-is-a-scam-disgruntled-mcgonagle/1113515853?ean=2940015517606.