I drive a stick shift. Went back & forth between autos & manuals, but, since I drive a Wrangler, it was a no brainer for me .
I actually didnt get my license until after I left the army, when I was 21 (the first time I got out). I had a learners permit while in HS, and a motorcycle permit, which was my only mode of transportation for those high school years (other than bumming rides). I took several driving courses in the Army, for both HMMWVs & the older dune buggys-which was my first experience with a stick shift.
Now, I am more comfy with a stick shift than an auto transmission. I like knowing I can control the gears.

For a while, like up until a few years ago, auto transmissions were the MORE expensive choice. It seems lately though that a standard is more expensive than an auto...like you belong to some sort of exclusive driving clu or something....lol. a 5 year old could drive an automatic car...it takes a little skill to drive a standard though. Of course, you may have to put your cell phone down to shift...