[matt murphy]

John,

Getting a college degree is not going to guarantee you of getting a car related job like you dream of. A college degree is mainly going to help you with your base knowledge and your ability to work better with people in the future. A lot of people don't go to college and have achieved what you might think is a killer job working with cars. You also need to be a bit more specific on what you want to do with cars, like design, fabricating or the engineering of cars or parts. A lot of us could help you with more recommendations if you can narrow your dream job relating to cars down a bit.

Believe me, you have to be patient and let things happen and don't think at 20 or even 25 that you are going to make it in the job of your dreams. I would recommend that if you want to be in the car industry, I would get a part time job working at a dealership, either selling cars or working on cars at a dealership, and get that college degree. When I was at Notre Dame, all engineers and pre-meds were required to get a minor degree in something else, because most of them never found a job in that field they got their major degree in. Also, if you like cars, then I would get involved in your local car clubs (if you are not already involved with one), and don't push yourself into anything too big for that club. Remember, you are very young and the 20's are your years to LISTEN and LEARN. I have had a lot of young guys say that they are going to do what I am doing here and I welcome it. The one thing that they dont see is the contacts and connections needed, and trust within the industry that comes with time, and the experience to adapt to the changing times and clients, etc.

My biggest recommendation for you is to enjoy college and learn as much as you can and fill up your college resume the best you can. Graduate with a good degree and a good minor that are different and get as broad of an education as you can. Finding a College Major that will get you into cars probably isn't out there. Getting a job that will get you into cars is . . . Hang in there . . .