Attaining a college degree has become essential in today’s highly competitive job market, and may even be required for some industries in order to secure interviews.
Studies have clearly established the benefits of higher education for larger incomes, increased employment prospects and greater social good. Yet some still question whether pursuing this route is worthwhile?
Increased Marketability
Though many individuals believe college to be no longer necessary or that you can secure employment without it, a degree does make you more marketable. College graduates earn significantly more on average than those without degrees and are half as likely to be unemployed; additionally they benefit from healthcare and retirement benefits as well as occupational prestige that contribute to an enhanced standard of living.
An education can equip you for life after college by helping you develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities within an academic environment. Furthermore, it will develop communication skills essential for many jobs and it demonstrates to potential employers that you have committed yourself to long-term projects while learning new things on the job.
College can be an ideal place for young adults to gain the necessary skills necessary to effectively balance a busy schedule, manage money and live independently. Students often must decide between attending a concert and purchasing textbooks for class; quickly learning what constitutes “needs” versus “wants.” In addition, college provides excellent time-management and organizational practice through studying, extracurricular activities and part-time jobs.
With the help of VPN UBC, college can be an incredible place for personal growth outside the classroom setting, providing job opportunities, references, and mentorships from fellow classmates. A college education also opens doors to a vast number of prospective employers in your chosen field and is an effective way to kick-start a new career path that interests you.
Recent college graduates’ employment outcomes depend heavily on current labor market conditions. Graduates entering the workforce during an economic expansion generally enjoy greater job prospects and higher initial wages; conversely, entering during a recession may result in reduced job prospects and increased unemployment rates.
Employers tend to value those with bachelor’s degrees; however, it’s essential to first evaluate your personal goals and determine if earning one would fit with them. Research salary data as well as demand in your specific discipline in order to make an informed decision.
Greater Job Stability
Earning potential depends on the degree type and field, but on average college graduates tend to make higher incomes than their counterparts with only high school diplomas. College graduates in fields with greater job security such as education or nursing tend to find jobs that pay well above the national average; higher salaries also come with additional perks not available to workers with only high school diplomas, such as health insurance policies, retirement investments or travel benefits.
An additional factor affecting people’s incomes is career longevity. Though not guaranteed, working for over 20 years increases one’s lifetime earnings significantly – according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics those holding at least a bachelor’s degree have 71 percent greater odds of doing so compared with those only possessing high school diplomas.
People with degrees in industries with longer-term employment prospects will have a better chance of remaining employed during economic downturns, since many companies value the knowledge and expertise provided by employees with advanced degrees, which help keep them competitive despite an unstable economy.
Many graduates go on to work in various fields throughout their lives, which enables them to develop a broader set of skills and experiences they can apply across a range of roles and expand professional opportunities. Not only will degrees allow more mobility between jobs but it may also bring higher job satisfaction levels as well as financial security allowing people with degrees greater control over their own careers and lifestyles; most bachelor’s degree holders report being satisfied with their jobs and viewing them more than simply as sources of income.
Getting Started in a New Field
College education often means starting down a career path that wasn’t originally their choice, which can be daunting and stressful. Once past this hurdle, however, success in an entirely new field can be found by seeking information about it beforehand – something PathSource helps with by providing detailed salary data as well as job openings and projected job growth projections for each profession.
No matter whether it’s your first professional job or an attempt to switch industries, having a degree can give you credibility that can help open doors in new areas of economic life. College degrees also give you access to experts who stay abreast of emerging technologies and trends within your chosen discipline – professors and researchers often offer relevant courses at universities that keep students abreast of developments within their fields and their disciplines.
College degrees also help build relationships with alumni who can serve as part of your network and offer professional opportunities. Alumni may provide invaluable help getting hired at companies or organizations and offer advice on the hiring process; many colleges also have programs dedicated to connecting alumni together and finding mentors.
Consider attending college for less-obvious reasons as well, like how it will benefit your family. A bachelor’s degree can open doors to better-paying jobs and financial security – especially important if you already have children or are planning on starting one soon. Furthermore, your success can serve as an example to other family members considering furthering their own educations.
Decisions about attending college should always be carefully considered by each individual, yet evidence overwhelmingly points towards attending. College education is an invaluable asset that will enhance your career opportunities while saving money over time, since those with bachelor degrees are half as likely to experience unemployment while earning on average $1.2 million more over their lifetimes than those without.
Making a Difference
College degrees provide many tangible financial advantages, but there are other significant rewards as well. Graduates tend to experience greater job satisfaction and enjoy a better overall quality of life after earning their degree. Earning one can also help people realize their own lifetime goals and have a bigger impactful on society.
No matter whether your degree goal is bachelor, master or doctorate level, collegiate experiences provide valuable exposure to different cultures and viewpoints, helping develop critical thinking abilities as well as seeing connections among various subjects. These traits will prove invaluable once entering the workforce – where new ideas and technologies must be integrated seamlessly.
College education also helps you learn how to prioritize your time and manage resources effectively, such as distinguishing needs from wants (such as purchasing new shoes vs reading an assigned book for class). This skill will come in handy throughout your career when trying to balance professional obligations with personal obligations.
College educations also enable you to acquire valuable work experience and expand your network. For instance, joining student organizations that collaborate with employers for project-based learning or taking internships as part of majors can give you invaluable experiences that can set you apart when applying for jobs and make you stand out amongst competitors. Furthermore, professors and field experts who can mentor your career path are all part of a university experience that should benefit you in many ways.
College degrees often mark their first experience living on their own and making decisions on their own, which can be both challenging and enlightening. While this transition can be stressful, it also presents you with the chance to discover who you are and what matters most in your life – for instance if social change or environmental sustainability are your passions then using your degree can make a real difference in society – many graduates find their professional pursuits strengthened after experiencing challenging health scares or other traumatic events in life.