Transitioning vs College

[King Malachite]

Currently I am in college going for my associates degree with 2 certificates living as a female.  Lately several people have been telling me that I need to transfer to a 4 year school to get a Bachelor's degree.  Just to keep things simple the people who have been pressuring me the most are my 2 sisters and my friend.  My friend knows I'm trans and I'm sure my sisters know but haven't officially said it so I've expressed my concerns to my friend.

I KNOW that getting a 4 year degree would open up more opportunities for me but I'm not a big fan of school and want to get out as soon as possible.  I don't have the money to take out loans for more school and get into debt and I doubt I'll have enough scolarship money to pay for EVERYTHING.  I told my friend that I agree that a Bachelor's degree is good but it's not something I don't see myself getting given my situation.

I want to move away one day from this state and begin my transition as soon as possible.  I told her that everyday I'm constantly struggling with how I'm going to find the money just to pay for therapy, testosterone, top surgery (plus the Mansculpture with Dr. Garramone), bottom surgery, hysterectomy, oophorectomy, revisions, even a dental implant, butt surgery, and lasik eye surgery on TOP of regular living expenses and other medical bils.  She just replied with "I don't know."  I know she means best but with all of that I will have to worry about in the future a Bachelor's degree is just not in the cards.  I've know many people with a 2 year degree or less in the states that are doing fine.  I just hope with a little determination and luck that I can do fine with my 2 year degree and certificates..  I just wish I could tell my sisters the real reason behind why I am probably going to skip a four year degree right now.

Where do you weigh in on the situation?

[Annah]

I went to a private christian undergraduate college and I transitioned in Seminary.

First, I need to know which private undergrad you are referring to. I can tell you if they will embrace your transition or kick you out for your transition.

Yes, Private colleges are expensive. If I had a time machine, I wouldn't do that route anymore. Let's put it this way....my graduate and post graduate tuition together is a still cheaper than my undergrad tuition.

Also, I do not understand why a state college will not transfer you? One of the biggest points for State Colleges and Universities is the fact that they have programs designed to transfer any associate degree into a bachelor's degree program.

If I were you, I would continue to explore State Universities. They are about 75% cheaper than a private christian college...and a helluva lot more tolerant to transgenders.

[Kreuzfidel]

What is more important to you for the near future - transitioning or a Bachelor's?  You can always get a Bachelor's later in life - there's no rush.  You can make a decent living working in fields that require Associate's degrees - you can get a job and save for your transition while not worrying about school.  If you chose, that is.