I need to re-read this entire thread when I am less tired and more sober. That said, what is sad to me has more to do with the sea change that many individuals face when they truly believe that that bachelor's degree is what they need to make the difference. I am fortunate to have many outside skills that an education can't afford (and don't make dirty jokes...
) so I know I can go along with the ebbs and flows of an economy... but when most people are dependent upon a BA or BS... I realize now that it would be like me depending upong my high school degree a decade ago.
That's what's sad to me... this perception that you're doing something special when all you're doing is just keepin' up with the Joneses.... I'm glad I knew it while I was doing it. Better than feeling duped.