Should I consider college?
You are at an important crossroads in your life. The choices you make now will affect you for many years, possibly forever. Making a smart choice about continuing your education past high school is one of the surest paths toward a successful future.
Should I go? Am I really college material? I don’t like school, so why would I sign up for 4 more years? No one in my family has ever gone to college, so why should I go? If you are struggling with these or similar questions, there are many resources available to guide you toward the best educational option for you. Even if you have struggled in high school, certain colleges may have programs that could improve your skills and prepare you for a successful career. Most students enjoy college much more than high school. Visit some schools and talk to some current college students, and you’ll see that school can actually be fun and interesting. Talk with your guidance counselor or a teacher about getting information on colleges that may be right for you. There are also many websites with free information about applying to college, such as www.mapping-your-future.org; www.teri.org, sponsored by The Education Resource Institute; and www.collegeboard.com.
If you are the first 1 in your family considering college, the Department of Education devotes resources specifically to helping you succeed. Ask your school guidance counselor about TRIO and Pathways to College programs in your area.
Benefits
Higher Earnings
On average, people with a college education earn more than those with only a high school education.
A Better Job
Do you know what sort of career you’d like to have? Completing college can help you excel in just about any career, and some careers require a college education and even a graduate degree. It’s never too early to start thinking about what you want to be when you grow up, but keep an open mind. When you get to college, you may learn something new that will take you in a new career direction.
Helps you achieve your dreams
If you dream of becoming a doctor, lawyer, elected official, teacher, or other position of responsibility, chances are college is in your future. College can help you develop a skill or passion, like playing an instrument, or learn about a subject that fascinates you, like science or computers. Whatever your dreams are, a college education can help you get there.
