Honestly, What is College Really (good) For?

 http://www.jamesaltucher.com/2011/01/10-more-reasons-why-parents-should-not-send-their-kids-to-college

This is a topic no one really brings up. The subject of what college is really for and it is really necessary.Growing Up. I was always told to further my education. I am pretty sure we all were. Never once did I think of simply asking "Why?" Going to college just always seemed like how life is supposed to go.You go from Pre-school, to elementary, middle school, high school, and then college. That's life cycle......right? For the majority it is, but what about for the rest? Not everyone believes that college is a must for them. College has its benefits, and some downfalls that can come along with it that most people would just rather avoid. 

The main downfall......the amount of debt that you could fall into, if you're not careful. 

http://www.flickr.com/photos/restlessglobetrotter/3378489363/

According to www.npr.org, student loan debt has now "exceeded the nation's credit card debt." Even though it seems like it would be easy to fall into the debt. I believe it is just as easy not to. Another reason most people see college as unnecessary, is the big question of "Will I get a job when it's all over?" For some , that is no guarantee. Most people want that degree in what they love and dream of doing for the rest of their lives, but will it pay off in the end? Will it help to payback any student loans that you have? That is what makes most drop their dreams and go for a degree more practical. www.thedailybeat.com states that certain degrees such as history, liberal arts, or languages can be very beneficial. Especially if you continue on to your Master's. The thing is though; you must stay motivated to succeed no matter what to get a degree period. 

photo credit:instantcollegedegree.com

photo credit:instantcollegedegree.comWell  what about the benefits of college? There are plenty! College  changes our lives for the better in every aspect. For starter'sit helps us to become more independent . I have always wanted to be able to get out and get it on my own. There is no better feeling than not to have to depend on anyone but yourself. College teaches you to take care of yourself , all  by yourself, and get some priorities in your life that you may not have had before. College turns us all into responsible adults and shows us what it is really like in the "REAL" world. 

Not only does college mold us and shape us into productive citizens, it helps with social life as well. 

photocredit:www.istockphoto.com 

You meet so many different people from so many different places. Even people from different countries. Who wouldn't want to experience that? Not only does college have personal benefits and social benefits,the main aspect is the DEGREE benefits.     photocredit: www.usnewsnewsuniversitydirectory.com

During our time here, there are so many opportunities available before we even get into our field such as many different internships and jobs that will look great on a resume' and give you some experience. In the article on www.npr.org, it says how college can expand the way we see things. How college can change our whole outlook on life period. College turns us into critical thinkers, and also realistic people. Getting the degree of your choice in something you love is the biggest benefit that college has. It is the gift that will keep on giving. 

The link www.bls.gov elaborates on how college graduates are in high demand and are doing very well for themselves and goes on to say how college-educated workers are higher earners than those who skipped out on college. Honestly, that is a given. You really cannot expect to come out of high school and work a good paying, high level job. College may have a few downfalls here and there that would make people change their minds on thinking of going, but along with the few downfalls, college has plenty of benefits. College is ultimately, an investment into our futures that will have the ultimate payoff if we excel while we are here.