Your Child Might Not Choose College - and That’s OK

Why Flexible Saving Matters More Than Ever

More families are asking: Is college the right path for my child? And increasingly, for many boys, the answer is no.

According to a 2025 Bloomberg report, U.S. men are enrolling in college at much lower rates than previous generations. Rising tuition, student debt concerns, and doubts about the return on investment are leading more young men to pursue alternative paths — from trades and certifications to entrepreneurial ventures or going straight into the workforce.

As a parent, you want to support your child’s goals — even if those goals don’t include a four-year degree. That’s where flexibility in financial planning becomes essential.

Education Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

The world your child is growing up in is different. College is no longer the automatic next step for everyone, and pushing toward a single track might not align with their talents, interests, or financial realities.

But one thing hasn’t changed: kids still need financial support as they transition into adulthood. Whether they’re buying tools for a trade, starting a small business, or attending coding bootcamp, those early investments matter.

Why a UTMA Account Keeps Options Open

Unlike 529 college savings plans, which are designed specifically for qualified education expenses, a UTMA (Uniform Transfers to Minors Act) account gives your child more freedom.

UTMAs are custodial investment accounts that allow you to save and invest on your child’s behalf. When your child reaches the age of majority in your state (usually 18 or 21), the funds transfer to them — and can be used for anything that benefits them. That could include:

• Trade school or certification programs
  
• Starting a small business
  
• Purchasing a vehicle or laptop
  
• Living expenses as they launch a career
  
• Or yes — traditional college, too
  

With a UTMA, you’re not locking yourself into one idea of what the future should look like. You’re creating the financial foundation for whatever path your child chooses.

Plan for the Future — Not Just the Degree

The best financial plan for your child is one that stays flexible. You don’t need to know exactly what they’ll want to do after high school. You just need to start building the resources that will support them.

A small, consistent monthly contribution to a UTMA — even $25 — can grow into something meaningful. And because the funds aren’t tied to tuition-only use, they’re ready when your child needs them most.

Wrap-Up: Support the Child, Not Just the Path

We can’t predict the future. But we can prepare our children for it. That starts with saving in a way that keeps their options open. A UTMA account through UNest is one way to do just that — with the flexibility to support your child’s journey, whatever form it takes.

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