Why Go to College Article Analysis

Following high school graduation, students face the harsh reality of entering into the real world, and the fear of a new chapter in life is a common occurrence. The possibilities of life after high school are endless, which is reason as to why all high school seniors should be required to read, “Why Go to College?” by the University of North Texas, which provides information that college can bring many promising opportunities and make one more successful, in the future, when looking for one’s dream job.

Many students exit high school and are not fully aware of the benefits of attending college, and question their goals to achieve while in college. Most students rush into college, as it is the “normal” route to take in life, but most of them have no idea what they want to do in college and beyond. Despite uncertainty, there are benefits to attending college following high school, The University of North Texas has stated that “the annual income for a person with a bachelor’s degree is nearly twice that of someone with only a high school diploma” (UNT 71). For college graduates, the opportunities that come with having a college degree are more than just increased money, but also opportunities in life. This is important because most young people just realize the amount of money, but do not realize that having a college degree could open way more opportunities than a high school diploma could ever. Some people wonder if you are better off going to college or better going straight to the workforce. As stated in the article, “college graduates can expect to earn a salary almost double that of high school graduates, the student is much better off going to college” which shows that college is worth the investment in the long run“(UNT 71). The investment of college also includes the investment into oneself, as college allows individuals to “explore and broaden your interests, pursue your goals, meet lifelong friends, and define yourself in ways you can only imagine now” (UNT 71). Even if one does not know that college is the right choice for them after high school, going to college can help to develop people’s interests and self. Many people do not know what they want to do after high school, but reading this article can really help the feeling of confusion and those who have no set plan for what to do after high school. 

Although the article “Why Go To College?” provides excellent information, some may say that the article  “The 10 Most Common Excuses for NOT Going to College and Why They’re All Wrong” by Fred Christie is a better article to read for high school students. This article explains common excuses of high school students who do not want to go to college, or believe they can not succeed in college.  This article provides explanations to why excuses are not necessarily the correct way to think about attending college, and motivates students to attend college. The University of North Texas article is a better article for all high school seniors to read for many reasons because it explains many advantages of going to college and why many students should seriously consider going to college. Some important facts that the article considers is that one will meet many new people and create countless friendships that will last a lifetime, and have the ability to find job opportunities within those friendships. The article gives motivation to all students, including those who do not have excuses regarding college, and provides the belief that college allows a fresh start and new chapter. The article is also very positive and motivating to high school seniors in all situations which allows for them to feel understood and that they should attend college. The article states “college doesn’t guarantee happiness and success, but it does help you make the best of your own life,” leaving students to make their own choices about going to college, whereas the other article believes that there are no excuses for not going to college (UNT 71). Overall, the University of North Texas article is a positive resource for seniors considering college. 

The article  “Why Go to College?” by the University of North Texas shows the advantages of going to college, and some of the experiences that you will have, including friendships and self-development. College is not the best path for everyone, but reading articles that describe the positives of college, more students can see why there is a place and opportunity for every type of person on a college campus.