You're correct
Unless you're entirely certain you are going to be a doctor, engineer, or some other no shit profession then college is right for you. Go to a good college.
Trade schools are a decent option, too. Welders are in demand, same with machinists now that manufacturing is coming back strong. If you want to make the most money possible as fast as possible look into getting your CDL because there is a 50,000 employee shortage nationwide. Within a few years of OTR you could have a comfy job hauling locally paying $30+/hr depending on your endorsements.