12 answers
Darren
Student
Stockton, Missouri
1
Question
Asked
1328 views
why does degrees matter?
why does having a college degree help with getting a job and why does having a highschool diploma matter when trying ti get a good job is that people look for when going to hire
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12 answers
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1879
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Darren !
Believe it or not, you have asked a fine, profound, philosophical question that surpasses the employment technicalities. In short, education matters to some people and it doesn't matter to other people. Your question seems to be geared to the technical aspects of ease in obtaining a job, but it requires an understanding of the role education plays if you need to figure out what is best for you.
How people look at college degreed people or those who have a high school diploma or a GED is shaped by that person's personal preferences, experiences and many times assumptions, whether these assumptions are right or wrong. If formal academic education doesn't matter to a person, there are other options. If formal study for an academic degree matters to a person, they will have their own unique experience with it and do with it many different things as they choose. It's a decision that everyone has to make based on real conclusions, not assumptions. Education means personal development, learning how to communicate and being trained in skills for a specific career. These tangible, observable factors play an important part in why it matters. We all have a calling in life and we all discover it in our own different ways and times. But whatever it is, one must take certain steps towards goals, and that may mean a college degree, vocational school or specialized training on a job.
When employers receive resumes from applicants, often times they receive numerous resumes and cover letters. Depending on the job, duties, position, etc. employers need a way to streamline applicants and will choose those whose resume reflects the best possible qualified people. Employers want people who have experience but also those who successfully were able to learn the skills that college provides. Of course, this depends on the job because sometimes an employer can think/assume that a person is overqualified. So you see, this all depends. It depends on what the employer is looking for, the type of job and it does matter in many careers that a person has the education and experience to step into the position with the confidence and knowledge that is needed.
So my advice is to think about what type of work you'd love to do in the future, what you need to do to obtain that job and what are you willing to do to get it. If school is not for you, you can explore the alternatives of vocational training programs and explore any job situations which do not require education. Consider getting a degree on line if in-classroom learning is not for you. Read employment websites regularly to possibly discover what jobs and requirements are out there. Because as I've mentioned, education does matter to some people and not to others and you will have to discover what your needs are and how to go about getting a job you will love.
I hope that this is a bit helpful to you and never hesitate to ask specific questions for advice. We all come to our discoveries at different times in our lives and reaching out is always helpful. Best wishes to you moving forward !
Believe it or not, you have asked a fine, profound, philosophical question that surpasses the employment technicalities. In short, education matters to some people and it doesn't matter to other people. Your question seems to be geared to the technical aspects of ease in obtaining a job, but it requires an understanding of the role education plays if you need to figure out what is best for you.
How people look at college degreed people or those who have a high school diploma or a GED is shaped by that person's personal preferences, experiences and many times assumptions, whether these assumptions are right or wrong. If formal academic education doesn't matter to a person, there are other options. If formal study for an academic degree matters to a person, they will have their own unique experience with it and do with it many different things as they choose. It's a decision that everyone has to make based on real conclusions, not assumptions. Education means personal development, learning how to communicate and being trained in skills for a specific career. These tangible, observable factors play an important part in why it matters. We all have a calling in life and we all discover it in our own different ways and times. But whatever it is, one must take certain steps towards goals, and that may mean a college degree, vocational school or specialized training on a job.
When employers receive resumes from applicants, often times they receive numerous resumes and cover letters. Depending on the job, duties, position, etc. employers need a way to streamline applicants and will choose those whose resume reflects the best possible qualified people. Employers want people who have experience but also those who successfully were able to learn the skills that college provides. Of course, this depends on the job because sometimes an employer can think/assume that a person is overqualified. So you see, this all depends. It depends on what the employer is looking for, the type of job and it does matter in many careers that a person has the education and experience to step into the position with the confidence and knowledge that is needed.
So my advice is to think about what type of work you'd love to do in the future, what you need to do to obtain that job and what are you willing to do to get it. If school is not for you, you can explore the alternatives of vocational training programs and explore any job situations which do not require education. Consider getting a degree on line if in-classroom learning is not for you. Read employment websites regularly to possibly discover what jobs and requirements are out there. Because as I've mentioned, education does matter to some people and not to others and you will have to discover what your needs are and how to go about getting a job you will love.
I hope that this is a bit helpful to you and never hesitate to ask specific questions for advice. We all come to our discoveries at different times in our lives and reaching out is always helpful. Best wishes to you moving forward !
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1816
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for question. To attend the college, you will not only again the knowledge you learn in the college. At the same time, there is training on your critical thinking and analysis skills. These skills are essential in your life time. You can also establish people network in the college. This will be your asset in the future.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Attend the orientation program organized by the faculty or college
2. Explore the extra curricular activities available and join the recreational club you have interest. If the future, you can also participate organizing the activities. This is an valuable experience to you.
3. If you still stay in dorm, try to move in early and establish friendship with your roommates and hallmates asap
College days is one of my most precious and memorable days. You can enjoy much in the college. Don't miss it!
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Attend the orientation program organized by the faculty or college
2. Explore the extra curricular activities available and join the recreational club you have interest. If the future, you can also participate organizing the activities. This is an valuable experience to you.
3. If you still stay in dorm, try to move in early and establish friendship with your roommates and hallmates asap
College days is one of my most precious and memorable days. You can enjoy much in the college. Don't miss it!
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Dinesh Heber
Business Operations Analyst, Business process improvement,problem solving,Project management etc
3
Answers
Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Updated
Dinesh’s Answer
College degrees matter as qualifications because they demonstrate a commitment to learning and the acquisition of specialized knowledge and skills in a particular field. They serve as a standard credential that employers can use to assess a candidate's qualifications and potential for success in a given job. Additionally, many professions and industries require specific educational backgrounds to ensure competence and adherence to industry standards, making a degree a prerequisite for certain career paths
Debra Ormond, Ed.D
Training Program Manager
3
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Debra’s Answer
While a degree doesn't define your worth or success in life, it can certainly open doors to new opportunities. Think of a degree as a foundation, a stepping stone that guides you along your chosen path. College also serves as a testament to your determination, showcasing your ability to commit to a task and see it through to the end. This same dedication can be shown through other pursuits, such as obtaining professional certifications.
Remember, a degree holds value, but it isn't the be-all and end-all. Hands-on experience is just as crucial. In fact, in certain professions, practical experience can be just as valuable as a degree.
Don't feel pressured to rush into earning a degree. It's perfectly fine to take your time and start your higher education journey when you're truly ready. Don't let the pace of others unsettle you; you're travelling on your own unique path. If you're unsure about your next steps, consider gaining experience through technical jobs, community service, or internships while you figure things out.
Patience is key in this journey. Depending on your chosen field of study, you might not land your dream job immediately after graduation. Sometimes, the job market can be saturated with applicants. In such cases, having additional skills alongside your degree can be beneficial. This will allow you to secure employment while waiting for the right opportunity to come along.
Lastly, remember that you're not bound to a single career for your entire life. It's not uncommon for individuals to switch careers at some point. This flexibility is always an option for you too. Embrace the journey, and remember that every step you take is a step towards discovering your true potential.
Remember, a degree holds value, but it isn't the be-all and end-all. Hands-on experience is just as crucial. In fact, in certain professions, practical experience can be just as valuable as a degree.
Don't feel pressured to rush into earning a degree. It's perfectly fine to take your time and start your higher education journey when you're truly ready. Don't let the pace of others unsettle you; you're travelling on your own unique path. If you're unsure about your next steps, consider gaining experience through technical jobs, community service, or internships while you figure things out.
Patience is key in this journey. Depending on your chosen field of study, you might not land your dream job immediately after graduation. Sometimes, the job market can be saturated with applicants. In such cases, having additional skills alongside your degree can be beneficial. This will allow you to secure employment while waiting for the right opportunity to come along.
Lastly, remember that you're not bound to a single career for your entire life. It's not uncommon for individuals to switch careers at some point. This flexibility is always an option for you too. Embrace the journey, and remember that every step you take is a step towards discovering your true potential.
Ching Chua
Corporate Counsel
11
Answers
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Updated
Ching’s Answer
Written on behalf of a group of volunteers at HPE:
we would like to emphasize the importance and value of a college degree or diploma. It serves as a testament to our basic ability to accomplish tasks and meet goals. However, it's not just the degree or diploma that matters, but the comprehensive education and training it offers that prepares you for your career journey.
Even if your degree or diploma doesn't directly align with your chosen career path, it's beneficial to embrace a lifelong learning mindset. Additionally, a college degree provides an excellent foundation for developing essential soft skills. These include time management and project management abilities, which will prove invaluable as you embark on your professional journey.
we would like to emphasize the importance and value of a college degree or diploma. It serves as a testament to our basic ability to accomplish tasks and meet goals. However, it's not just the degree or diploma that matters, but the comprehensive education and training it offers that prepares you for your career journey.
Even if your degree or diploma doesn't directly align with your chosen career path, it's beneficial to embrace a lifelong learning mindset. Additionally, a college degree provides an excellent foundation for developing essential soft skills. These include time management and project management abilities, which will prove invaluable as you embark on your professional journey.
Samjana Rai
4
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Samjana’s Answer
*written on behalf of a group of volunteers at HPE*
Having a degree is a minimum prerequisite to get a suitable job and company requirement
It also increases access to more job opportunities
You have more knowledge and skills of the chosen subject
It gives internship opportunities that would help in development of our career that you want to pursue
Having a degree is a minimum prerequisite to get a suitable job and company requirement
It also increases access to more job opportunities
You have more knowledge and skills of the chosen subject
It gives internship opportunities that would help in development of our career that you want to pursue
Steve Sterner
IT Management
31
Answers
Easton, Pennsylvania
Updated
Steve’s Answer
Here is my take on college, while any knowledge you pick up in whatever way you pick it up is great. The most important thing I think a college degree helps tell me when I am interviewing or reviewing resumes is that you have the ability to learn, you have the ability to grind, you have the determination and initiative to work towards a goal for 4 years, work with various people, learn how to handle deadlines, etc.
I am a manager in IT so most of the facts, particulars, commands, etc. will be antiquated or deprecated by the time you graduate and you will have to learn new ones, but I know you had the ability to adjust over the last 4 years to changing standards, professors, requirements, etc. if you can do that I am sure you will be able to go from Windows to Linux or C++ to Java.
Not that the degree is the most important thing and for me I am interested in what someone learned but I would consider someone with a Liberal Arts degree or a Fine Arts or Communications even though it is not a Technology degree because of what I know they were able to do in those 4 years.
Hope that helps and good luck to you!
I am a manager in IT so most of the facts, particulars, commands, etc. will be antiquated or deprecated by the time you graduate and you will have to learn new ones, but I know you had the ability to adjust over the last 4 years to changing standards, professors, requirements, etc. if you can do that I am sure you will be able to go from Windows to Linux or C++ to Java.
Not that the degree is the most important thing and for me I am interested in what someone learned but I would consider someone with a Liberal Arts degree or a Fine Arts or Communications even though it is not a Technology degree because of what I know they were able to do in those 4 years.
Hope that helps and good luck to you!
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
750
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Your insightful questions got me thinking about the value of degrees, both from high school and college, in the job market. Here are just a few that I can think of:
A college degree is proof of your specialized knowledge and skills in a particular field. It shows employers that you've had rigorous training and are an expert in your area.
Also, a college degree opens up a wider range of job opportunities. Some jobs require specific educational qualifications, so having a degree can make you more competitive. This can greatly increase your chances of getting a job that fits your career goals.
On the other hand, a high school diploma shows that you have a basic level of education and skills. Employers look for this as it shows you have basic skills like reading, math, and critical thinking. A high school diploma is often the minimum requirement for many entry-level jobs, and plays a key role in getting hired.
In short, degrees are important because they prove your education, skills, and commitment to a field. A college degree can expand your job options and make you more competitive, while a high school diploma is often needed for many jobs. These credentials shape how employers see your qualifications and readiness for a job. However, not all jobs or careers need a degree - some require certifications or just experience.
Remember, education is a priceless asset that greatly contributes to your personal and professional growth. It not only opens up career opportunities, but also gives you the knowledge and skills needed to excel in your chosen field.
A college degree is proof of your specialized knowledge and skills in a particular field. It shows employers that you've had rigorous training and are an expert in your area.
Also, a college degree opens up a wider range of job opportunities. Some jobs require specific educational qualifications, so having a degree can make you more competitive. This can greatly increase your chances of getting a job that fits your career goals.
On the other hand, a high school diploma shows that you have a basic level of education and skills. Employers look for this as it shows you have basic skills like reading, math, and critical thinking. A high school diploma is often the minimum requirement for many entry-level jobs, and plays a key role in getting hired.
In short, degrees are important because they prove your education, skills, and commitment to a field. A college degree can expand your job options and make you more competitive, while a high school diploma is often needed for many jobs. These credentials shape how employers see your qualifications and readiness for a job. However, not all jobs or careers need a degree - some require certifications or just experience.
Remember, education is a priceless asset that greatly contributes to your personal and professional growth. It not only opens up career opportunities, but also gives you the knowledge and skills needed to excel in your chosen field.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6183
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Darren!
A college degree or high school diploma is a pretty big deal, and here's why. Firstly, education gifts us with the knowledge and skills we need to shine in our chosen careers. When employers are looking for new team members, they often prefer those with a certain level of education. This shows that the person is dedicated to learning and can take in and use new information effectively.
Also, having a degree is like wearing a sign that says, "I'm capable and ready to work!" It helps employers sort through lots of applicants and find the best fit. Plus, higher education helps us understand the world better, think critically, and solve problems—all skills that are super important in the workplace.
Lastly, for many jobs, you need specific educational qualifications to get in the door or move up the ladder. So, having a college degree or high school diploma can really boost your job prospects and open up exciting career opportunities.
Here are some sources where you can learn more: Harvard Business Review, The New York Times, and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Take care and God bless!
James.
A college degree or high school diploma is a pretty big deal, and here's why. Firstly, education gifts us with the knowledge and skills we need to shine in our chosen careers. When employers are looking for new team members, they often prefer those with a certain level of education. This shows that the person is dedicated to learning and can take in and use new information effectively.
Also, having a degree is like wearing a sign that says, "I'm capable and ready to work!" It helps employers sort through lots of applicants and find the best fit. Plus, higher education helps us understand the world better, think critically, and solve problems—all skills that are super important in the workplace.
Lastly, for many jobs, you need specific educational qualifications to get in the door or move up the ladder. So, having a college degree or high school diploma can really boost your job prospects and open up exciting career opportunities.
Here are some sources where you can learn more: Harvard Business Review, The New York Times, and U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Take care and God bless!
James.
Robert McAdams
Software Engineer
30
Answers
Roseville, California
Updated
Robert’s Answer
Degrees matter not because of knowledge, but because the degree earning process requires discipline and dedication and hard work -- and that shows when starting a job, and being able to commit and achieve a task. Some jobs will not even interview you unless you have a degree, you should research that before choosing your path for university. Examples: law school, medical school, engineering and technology.
That being said, a degree does not necessarily mean someone can do a job. And not having a degree does not necessarily mean someone can't do a job. It is all relative. Many more companies are changing their interview policy because of that, and are starting to list roles as: degree or X years of experience :)
That being said, a degree does not necessarily mean someone can do a job. And not having a degree does not necessarily mean someone can't do a job. It is all relative. Many more companies are changing their interview policy because of that, and are starting to list roles as: degree or X years of experience :)
Marina Claps
Marketing
2
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Marina’s Answer
• For some careers, a degree in a relevant field gives you a lot of relevant background
• Some employers look for job candidates in universities, specifically coming out of programs that align with their needs
• Having a solid theoretical grounding could help as you go deeper into execution in your practical job
• However – not everyone needs a degree! There are many ways to get to your end goal. Make sure to identify your strengths and develop your skills; sometimes, this will allow you to become a great leader and professional, even if you don’t have a formal degree.
• Some employers look for job candidates in universities, specifically coming out of programs that align with their needs
• Having a solid theoretical grounding could help as you go deeper into execution in your practical job
• However – not everyone needs a degree! There are many ways to get to your end goal. Make sure to identify your strengths and develop your skills; sometimes, this will allow you to become a great leader and professional, even if you don’t have a formal degree.
Cameron Harris
Software Engineer
5
Answers
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Updated
Cameron’s Answer
*written on behalf of a group of volunteers at HPE*
College degrees in the current job climate are usually prerequisites for many job applications, but are not particularly required as long as you have some form of proof that you are competent in the role you are being sought after for. However, some professional bodies require you to have a level of tertiary education such as in the law, accounting and medical fields.
Ask yourself: "What kind of job would I like to do?"
Research: "Does this job require a certain level of tertiary education?"
If so, research: "What are the potential avenues to achieving that education?". For instance, nursing in many countries can be done through both an academic degree and a practical experience route.
College degrees in the current job climate are usually prerequisites for many job applications, but are not particularly required as long as you have some form of proof that you are competent in the role you are being sought after for. However, some professional bodies require you to have a level of tertiary education such as in the law, accounting and medical fields.
Cameron recommends the following next steps: