I never went to college. My first programming job I was on a team with 6 other people. One had about 3 years of experience in web development, the others were fresh out of college. I was terrified being the only one that was self taught, until I realized I was on par with the guy who had 3 years in the business and way ahead of everyone else.

They literally wasted 4 years and $100k each to be behind a guy who was just reading blogs and practicing for a year in his free time.

When it comes to coding, I fully support the blanket statement that college is not the only path. Sure, do it if you want to, but I tell everyone it’s a waste of time and money.