College is important for a variety of reasons, including increased job stability and satisfaction, as well as the ability to make a difference in your community. A college degree can be critical to your success in today’s workforce, as more and more jobs require advanced education. It has the potential, however, to help you positively impact your family and the world.
- Increase Chances of Employment
It’s not uncommon to see “bachelor’s degree required” or “preferred qualification” on job descriptions. An undergraduate program, which includes associate and bachelor’s degrees, combines general education courses with specialized learning in a field of interest. With these degrees, you’ll gain broad-based as well as field-specific knowledge. You may also have the opportunity to develop important hard and soft skills by participating in experiential learning opportunities, which are relevant, hands-on experiences that you can apply in the workplace. Experiential learning can take many forms and can occur both inside and outside of the classroom. A college education may also lead to greater career stability.
- Safe Place to Explore Career Options
Maybe you know you want to go to college but aren’t sure what you want to do with your life. College provides a safe environment in which to explore your interests, try out different career paths, and take classes just for fun! Some colleges even encourage a varied course load because they understand that taking a variety of classes will help you become a more well-rounded individual. As a result, as a college student, you can join clubs and organizations that are related to your interests or pique your curiosity. You could even start college with one major and graduate with another. That’s fine! College allows you to find your path, even if you have to try a few others first.
- Important Networking Connections
It’s said that it’s all about whom you know. This statement is never more true than in a college setting. College campuses attract brilliant students and teachers, people from diverse backgrounds, and those with connections to every possible job industry. If you attend a school that specializes in your potential career field, you will have even more opportunities to connect with people in that field. Developing a professional network can begin with a casual conversation with a professor or student. It might be all you need to get the job of your dreams. However, you can increase your chances of meeting the “right” person by joining clubs related to your career interests, volunteering, joining a fraternity or sorority, or even participating in sports. Many top universities provide internships that will not only look good on your resume but will also connect you with resources, experts in your field, and possibly the person who will offer you your dream job.
- Personal Growth
College is likely to be your first time away from home. You’re making your own decisions, studying for your future career, meeting new people, figuring out how to live on a budget, and managing your time. College provides you with a challenging but safe environment in which to put these responsibilities into practice and grow as a person. If you choose to attend college, you will learn how to overcome various types of challenges and adversity. You are in charge of managing your courses, tests, and homework deadlines. These tasks can be especially difficult if you have a full course load. College skills will not only help you in your career but will also help you deal with the duties and responsibilities of everyday life.
- Higher Salary and Lower Unemployment Rate
According to research, college graduates are more likely to land a secure job and earn a higher salary than high school graduates. “Workers with a bachelor’s degree had median weekly earnings of $1,305 in 2020, compared to $781 for workers with a high school diploma,” according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Furthermore, they report that in May 2021, people 25 and older with a bachelor’s degree had a 3.2% unemployment rate. 6.8% of high school graduates did not have a college diploma. On average, those with a bachelor’s degree have half the unemployment rate as those with only a high school diploma.