Is it vital that I go to college?

[Riley Nettles]

I’m an 18 year old senior in high school who is just about to graduate. I have two options in mind. I can either go to college and get my associates degree for some type of trade/skill or, hop right into work, save money, and learn everyday about real estate and stocks and make that my main priority. What is the smarter decision here? What would you guys do in my shoes?