"A few years" is not really a solid timeline for the stock market.

Since we don't know where we're going, going all-in now is probably not wise. Cost-average in, but certainly buy now that it's cheaper.

No one can tell you what your life will be like. It's likely you'll have a lower salary if you don't go to college, but it's by no means guaranteed. Don't take "average person" advice. No one is average.

However, focusing on a career path and not switching back and forth will help employability as you approach 50. Aside from that: life is what happens while you're busy making other plans.