Onias
What is the value of a college degree in today's society?
In my experience I have witnessed many people who have gone to college, but are neglected a decent job. On the other side of the spectrum, there are a handful of those who do not have college degrees yet have made a very comfortable living for themselves. #business #law #sports #general
3 answers
Tony Frank
Tony’s Answer
Michael Maquet
Michael’s Answer
You are absolutely right that some people are very successful with degrees and others fail in spite of having degrees. As Kim pointed out, what type of degree you get can also impact your future success - depending on your chosen career, different degrees will be more or less valuable. In general, though, think of earning a degree as a proof statement for employers that you have some level of competence and maturity.
Kim Igleheart
Kim’s Answer
Onias,
This is a very complex question. Part of the answer depends on the career field. For example, a business degree might be an almost certain prerequisite for certain jobs, whereas Administrative Assistants may not need a degree. Because so many people went to college during the recession (2008-2015), sadly, a degree has become the minimum requirement for many jobs, even where none is really needed.
you are right in saying that some people do succeed without degrees, and not everyone with a degree will succeed.I would hope that if you choose to go to college, you will do it for the education, and not just for the piece of paper. To me, the degree taught me to think for myself, and to write. Many students take the easy classes, trying to simply get the degree or to keep their GPA up. They were happy when the professors cancelled class, not stopping to realize that they were paying for that class!
My degree was in a field that does not pay well (sociology) but my reason for going to school was not to get a great job - it was simply to learn how to think and express myself, as the public schools had not adequately prepared me.
But, maybe a degree is not in your future. Trade schools are still strong. Whatever it is you decide to do, I encourage you to research the marketability of the education. Sadly, many of the private college/trade school recruiters will make a lot of promises they cannot keep, and graduates find themselves unemployed and deeper in debt.
Hope this has helped a little. Thanks for a very thought-provoking question!
Well said! I think that the most important traits to show when you are starting to work for real life (post standard/required education) is attitude, desire, energy, and enthusiasm. Have patience but work hard. Don't let the little stuff get to you, persevere, and stay positive and be a role model for others, and these traits will take you far in life!!
Tony Frank