With the bad economy and competitive job market, having a degree is becoming increasingly important. Although in the past, degrees weren’t always necessary, now companies are using a college education as a way to filter applicants. While some may not use their specific degree, it is always good to have one for the future. In addition, it is often good to get a secondary degree such as a credential, masters or doctorate.
According to the Value of Education, by 1999, “full-time workers with a Bachelor’s degree” earned 1.8 times the yearly earnings of workers with a high school diploma. Having a Master’s Degree is even more profitable. According to the same article, on average, a person with a Master’s degree earns $31,900 more per year than a high school graduate. While there are many people without a college education who are successful, these statistics represent the general person.
Money is not the only reason to get a degree. Going to school helps you decide what career path you might or might not want to follow. In a teaching program, you are able to student teach. In medical programs you undergo a residency. In seminary, you may see if you want to be a preacher or a missionary. All this pre-work experience can help prepare you for the real thing or guide you in another direction. Luckily, it is possible to change degrees. According to Choosing a College Major: How to Chart Your Ideal Path, “a majority of students in all colleges and universities change their major at least once in their college careers; and many change their major several times over the course of their college career.
I was fortunate enough to go to college at UCSD. I received a BA in writing and literature. However, I had a severe case of pneumonia and had to quit my internship at a local magazine. I had planned to go into writing but after graduation, I suddenly didn’t feel secure with just my degree. Thus, I went on to get a teaching credential and a Master’s in Education. Since I did not have any other responsibilities, I was able to finish all the degrees in five years. It was the best decision I ever made. My regular degree allowed me to substitute teach and work as a reading teacher. My Masters helped me to land a job teaching introductory English at a seminary college. My credential helped me to teach elementary school. Finally, my training in writing has helped me feel confident about pursuing freelance writing.
My best advice is to get as much of your schooling done while you are young. When working and having kids, it becomes increasingly difficult to find time and money for school. Likewise, online or night schools are often more expensive.
You might have a great job right now that does not require a degree but this may not be the case in the future. If you are “on the fence” about getting a college degree simply remember that it is always better to have additional qualifications than to not.
Of course, you do not have to have a degree to thrive. Many people who own businesses are very successful. In addition, sometimes doing what you love is more important than making money?
