[GaryOlson]

So those who do not attend college don't have access to do substantive work? I agree. Too many job postings minimum requirements include a college degree even if the actual work -- substantive or not -- do not need a college education. So, a person cannot start in industry in a less substantive position and move into a position which includes more substantive work.

[stcredzero]

So those who do not attend college don't have access to do substantive work? I agree.

Wow, is putting words into another's mouth a standard HN move now?

Getting into college is not an insurmountable barrier. Find a professor who is genuinely interested in the work you're interested in. Start learning the background information required to do the work. Between the two of you, you should be able to figure out a way to work together. This works for both financial and admissions barriers.

There are also many kinds of substantive work one can do without a college degree.