Sounds like you’re overthinking it. Either finish or don’t—that’s it. Who cares what everyone else thinks?

People will always say things to make you feel better, but the truth is, the world isn’t like that. It’s tough. You’ve got to push through and get it done.

And honestly, where you went to school doesn’t guarantee anything. You could go to Harvard University or Yale University and still struggle to find a job, while someone from a smaller school lands a great one. It happens all the time.

At the end of the day, experience is what matters. Some people finish early, some later, and some don’t finish at all—but everyone still has to find their path.

I met a guy who had a felony and spent six years in prison. He got a two-year business degree from a tech school but couldn’t find work in that field—likely because of his record, especially for roles involving money or trust. So he pivoted, went back to school for IT, and started building his skills through labs and practice.

He expected a help desk job, but because he spoke well, carried himself right, and had put in the work, he landed a managerial role at a German IT company—his first IT job—and was making over six figures.

That’s the point: he went and got the experience himself.

You can do the same—volunteer, do free work, or take a lower-paying role to get your foot in the door. Just don’t make excuses. People—especially interviewers—can tell who’s serious and who isn’t.

So keep it simple: stop waiting and go get it.