Is college really worth it?
For most high school students, college is the only hope to secure a better life for the future; at least this is what’s being told to them by both parents and teachers. The idea that college is an investment in the future has been engrained in them since elementary school. By investing their money in education, they expect to graduate and find a career in their chosen field. However, the majority of college graduates do not find work in their field. Furthermore, an undergraduate degree does not guarantee that you will even find a high-paying profession. There are some specialized skilled professions that are in demand. Therefor, it may be easier to find a job, if your degree is in that field. For the millions of students who have graduated in other fields they may find nothing but disappointment. They will easily question whether taking out thousands of dollars in loans and spending hours studying for exams was really worth it.
If you are a college bound student ask yourself why do you want to go to college. Is it because parents and peers’ expectations, is it because you expect to have a career after graduating, or is it simply because of the desire to experience college life? If it is because your friends and family are telling you to go then your heart will not been in it and you are wasting your time and money. Ask yourself if paying for college really worth it. The pressure that parents and peers put on you is persuasive, but you have to be honest with yourself. Remember there are other avenues you can take. Know what you want to do before jumping into something. Often times finding work in an entry-level position will propel you to either go to college for something else or pursue additional training in the work you are already doing. Consider taking time to figure out what you really want to do and whether college is a necessary evil to achieving your goal.
If you are going to have the college experience and you can afford then it can be a very eye-opening experience. Attending a college or university will offer you an opportunity to explore career options, meet new people, and learn to think critically. It can even catapult you into finding your purpose in life. College can be a very rewarding experience, but it is very expensive as well. So, if this is your main reason for attending ask yourself is the experience really worth it. College does have an intrinsic value that may not reap any outward rewards. However, many students do not have the luxury of attending college for just the experience. Most students attend school for the sole purpose of finding a rewarding career. For these students completing college and not finding would feel like they wasted their time.
If you are a student attending school for this purpose a good idea is to do some research first. You can research to see if a certificate program or a two-year degree will get you started on your career path. Sometimes you can start at an entry-level position with a company and reach your ideal position sooner than you would have completing a four-year degree first. You will get a head start into the job market thus putting your knowledge to work sooner. But you must look to see whether the career you are seeking requires candidates possess a four-year degree or if there is some flexibility. It is important to remember that although completing college increases your chances of finding a career, nothing is guaranteed. Many schools are in the business of making money first and educating students second. Investigate the school to see whether it is reputable. Pay particular attention to for profit schools. They are becoming notorious for their high tuition with minimum satisfied customers.
