Advantages and Disadvantages of Going to College Essay Example

With careers and opportunities growing in the 21st century, going to college has become a difficult decision. Many people see college as pointless if they can use their hard work, skills, and talents to be successful without a degree. Others see college as the first step to success and a guaranteed income. High School students are having a hard time deciding if going to college is worth it. Although college isn’t necessary to succeed, college is the best decision for the majority of people because they will experience substantial financial, employment, and personal growth benefits. 

Although college has its advantages it also has a lot of disadvantages. Many young people say that tuition is too high and they need the money “to support a family (Source C). When having the option of getting an education or living a stable life most choose a stable life. It’s easy to find a job that pays somewhat well but it isn’t easy to pay off college debt. Lots of people believe that going to college is an automatic way into a high-paying job, but those who major in education make the lowest amount of money (Source A). After paying tuition and going to college for 4 years teachers are still underpaid. With society developing, college isn’t the only way to get an education and go into a highly paid career. There has been a high demand for those with vocational training such as a CNA certificate (Source B). This gives young adults a chance to get an education without the financial drawbacks. It’s understandable why young adults choose not to go to college. However, the majority of them think the advantages of college outweigh these disadvantages. 

Despite the disadvantages, going to college is very beneficial for the majority of people. First, those with a degree are more financially stable and successful than those with only a high school diploma. In 2010, the Census reported that college graduates earned about $19,500 more than high school students (Source C). If the gap between college graduates and high school students was almost $20,000 11 years ago then that gap must have increased as time went on. With that being said Americans with a college degree can expect to earn $1 million more over a lifetime (Source A). College students who stay in college for 4+ years typically earn more money, especially STEM majors (Source A). This is obvious when one compares certain careers. If one had the choice of getting the salary of a doctor or a realtor who majored in business, they would choose the salary of a doctor without any hesitation. Why? Because most doctors major in some sort of science which is a STEM major. Therefore, going to college is a no-brainer for more because of the financial benefits. 

On top of major financial benefits, college can be used as an advantage for employment. In Colorado, 75% of all jobs require some kind of degree beyond high school (Source A). This gives those with a college degree more job options and they are “far less likely to be unemployed” (Source E). Having a degree puts one ahead of those who didn’t further their education after high school and makes finding a good job easier. With it being easier to find a job, college also helped students “prepare for a job or career” 55% of college students stated in a survey (Source C). College not only gives graduates a wide range of jobs it also gives a little insight into the working field. So when one gets a job they know what to expect and they aren’t lost or shocked. Without a doubt, attending college provides employment benefits that one wouldn’t receive if they hadn’t continued their education. 

Along with the outstanding employment benefits, college students also gain personal growth benefits from attending college. Many people see college as more school and work. Yes, college is meant for learning but it’s also a way to learn and grow as a person and intellectually (Source C). The college experience is not something one can get and it’s vastly different depending on the person. When asked, the majority of students stated college helped them “mature as a person” (Source C). College gives people responsibility and holds them accountable and this helps them be independent and grasp onto adulthood. David Leonhardt was explaining the importance of a college education and stated “education seems to make people happier and healthier” (Source E). So, not only are people growing from college, but their mental health is also improving. If one is not interested in the financial and employment benefits of college they should consider the personal benefits. College is a place where most people grow and develop into the person they are. Thus, attending college is a good way to not only invest in one's future but also in themselves as a person.

Ultimately, everyone has their point of view on college and if it’s worth it. Most studies and surveys lean towards college because the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. The financial benefits a college degree provides are hard to achieve without the extra education. A degree also opens many doors when looking for a job and puts one ahead of those without it. Finally, graduates benefit personally from their college experience and grow as adults. College isn’t for everyone but it’s worth the consideration. It’s never too late to go to college and if one has the opportunity to do so later in their life they should take it and expand their knowledge.