Siginificance of Graduation

Growing up, how many successful people did you know that were not college graduates? A substantial amount probably. The fact is that a college degree or even a high school degree was not as necessary in the past. Look at people like Bill Gates and Steve Jobs who were more than successful without a college degree. The question is, "Is a college degree really necessary?"

The answer is yes. Let's discuss four reasons why getting your degree is crucial in the world today.

1. The most obvious is the earnings potential. According to the U.S. Census Bureau in 2002, a person with a graduate degree could earn over a million dollars more than a high school graduate in their lifetime. That is a substantial amount of money. Even if a degree was only worth $10,000 more a year (which it is worth a lot more) then over a 30 year work period a college graduate would make $300,000 more.

2. Another reason for getting a college degree is the foundation that a college degree brings in your life. The business world is volatile and difficult at times but having a college degree gives you a foundation to depend on. Lay offs, life changers, and other events happen and without that foundation, work may be tough to come by. While there are no guarantees in life, you can feel much more secure if you have a college degree when it comes to finding work.

3. Have you noticed that not all people go to college just so they can go into their profession and make a lot of money? Some people just enjoy something and want to learn more about it. College can be the means to learn about an interest that you have had throughout your life. Take drama for example. Drama is a very difficult field to be successful in but people study it because they are interested in it. If you have an interest and do not mind spending thousands of dollars to pursue it, then college is the way to learn more about it.

4. The last reason is you can choose your vocation. Without a degree you may have the attitude of "I'll take what I can get." A degree gives you an opportunity to study and become a professional at what you want to do in your life, not just what you can get. If you want to be a dentist, then go for it! Mechanical engineer, sure! Doing what you love is one of the most liberating experiences in life. Remember, though, when you get out of college it is up to you to find a job that suits you and your interests.

So be proud of yourself if you are in school and are looking to graduate. You are making great strides in your life. For those parents out there, support your children. Give them a graduation present! They deserve it. College is not easy. It was never meant to be easy but it will be worth it. College graduates, pat your self on the back and keep pushing forward. For those that haven't graduated, the time goes by fast. Homework and tests will soon be in the past. Just remember that you are doing the right thing.