Is College Still Worth It? A Clear-Eyed Look at ROI, Risk, and Real Opportunity

College costs are higher than ever, student loan debt dominates the headlines, and parents are quietly asking a question they never thought they’d need to ask: Is a four-year college degree still worth it? In this episode, Mark Cruver breaks down the idea of “return on investment” in college planning—not with fear or hype, but with clarity. We’ll talk about cost versus value, why major and career direction matter more than prestige, how to avoid over-borrowing, and how families can make thoughtful, financially responsible decisions without sacrificing opportunity. This is a practical, reassuring conversation for parents of high school students who want to do right by their kids and their finances.