Is College Worth it?
Cost vs. Rewards of Higher Education
Does education pay off? The answer is a resounding "yes." Statistics indicate
college graduates earn more than those without a college degree.* In fact, statistics show
that future job opportunities will also favor those with a college education and
specialized training.
You can help your children take advantage of these opportunities by encouraging early
career planning to identify career choices that match their talents, abilities, interests
and goals. The optimum time to start career planning is in high school with career
research, work experience and careful course selection. Encourage your children to:
 | Visit companies and interview professionals in diverse fields. |
| Read books about different careers |
| Investigate colleges and schools that offer programs for various career paths |
| Participate in summer internship programs. |
| Look for part-time summer jobs in occupations of interest |
| Take accelerated classes in math, science,
language and English. |
Employment Shift
There has been a shift in employment from goods-producing to service-oriented
professions. This is due to advances in technology
The U.S. Department of Labor states the fastest growing jobs will be in executive,
managerial, professional and technical fields, requiring the highest levels of education
and skill. Changes in consumer demand and an increase in imports are expected to stagnate
many occupations that require little formal education (i.e.:helpers, laborers, assemblers
and machine operators).
Clearly, college graduates and those completing specialized educational programs will have
the advantage in tomorrow's economy.
* National Center of Education Statistic
