Like many teens, you probably ask yourself on a regular basis, “Why should I go to college?”
With the end of high school within sight, it’s easy to feel intimidated by the prospect of attending school for years to come. However, after considering the incredible advantages of doing so, you’ll find yourself submitting college applications in no time.
Here are seven great reasons to attend college:
1. Make More Money
Money isn’t everything, but having enough of it makes life easier. College graduates have higher yearly incomes, and they earn more throughout their lifetimes.
The average salary for someone with a bachelor’s degree was $59,124 in 2015; for high school graduates, it was $35,256. College graduates earn an average of $1,137 per week, while high school graduates earn an average of $678 per week.
| Bachelor’s Degree | High School Diploma | |
| Annual Salary | $59,124 | $35,256 |
| Weekly Earning | $1,137 | $678 |
Additionally, college graduates earn twice as much money during their lifetimes than people who only have high school diplomas.
2. Have Better Career Options
By 2028, there will be 19 million more jobs than people who are qualified to fill them. By earning a college degree now, you will always find employment easier in the future. Also, degree holders tend to progress in their careers more easily.
During tough economic times, college graduates fare better than high school graduates.
In 2009, there were 9.7 million unemployed high school graduates versus 5.2 million unemployed college graduates.
3. Gain Crucial Decision-Making Skills
By furthering your education in college, you will strengthen your decision-making and analytical skills. These skills will serve you well throughout your life.
4. Make More Connections
Oftentimes, the trick to landing that dream job is knowing the right people.
Attending college gives you excellent networking opportunities. It also gives you the opportunity to try different extracurricular activities that may develop into lifelong hobbies. Along the way, you’ll make tons of friends.
5. Enjoy a Higher Standard of Living
College graduates tend to have higher job satisfaction because they can more easily find jobs that suit their skills. They are more highly compensated and tend to have better benefits, including access to high-quality health care.
As an added bonus, they usually have more free time for recreational pursuits, and they tend to exercise more than those without college degrees.
6. Ensure Stability for Your Family
If you would like to have a family someday, do them a favor now by earning your college degree. You will be better able to provide for them, and all of you will enjoy a higher standard of living.
7. Increase the Odds That Your Children Will Get Into College Too
If you are planning to have children, earning your degree increases the chances that they will go to college someday.
71 percent of children with at least one parent who is a college graduate submit a college application, while only 26 percent of children without college graduates for parents apply.
Final Word
As you can see, the advantages of going to college are considerable. Some advantages are apparent right away, and others don’t become apparent until later in life.
Which of these benefits excites you the most? If you don’t go to college, how else will you achieve the perks on this list?