However, we *do* know that many successful people dropped out of college. Examples include Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, Steve Jobs, and Oprah Winfrey, among countless others. Their success stories, however, are exceptions, not the rule. The vast majority of college dropouts do not achieve the same level of fame and fortune.
Studies show that college graduates generally earn more, have lower unemployment rates, and enjoy better health outcomes on average than those who don't complete college. This doesn't mean that a college dropout cannot be successful; it simply points to a statistical correlation between completing college and certain measures of success.
In short: While many highly successful individuals didn't finish college, it's a statistically risky path to take, and the odds of achieving similar levels of success are significantly lower compared to completing a college degree. Focusing on the reasons for dropping out and having a clear alternative plan is crucial for success.