The value of a college education is immense. Before I made the decision to return to college, I made a list of pros and cons on this subject and I focused on two main areas: the social and economic benefits. I wanted to finish college for a sense of accomplishment and a confidence booster. But considering the financial commitment, college had to mean more to me than a “feather in my cap.”
Both the social and economic benefits are very important. I started with the economic reasons. First, there was the increased salary to consider. Earning a college degree will give me the ability to earn more. College graduates are said to earn as much as 70% more than those without a college degree. (Sargent) This goes hand-in-hand with having a greater chance
My education will build a foundation for my children, which will build a foundation for their children. This leads to generations of people being major contributors to our society, which gives us the ability to make a difference and become an even greater nation.
Next come the social benefits. I feel that a college education will give me a better quality of life. I will have better access to healthcare, and decreased dependency on government assistance (i.e. healthy families program). I will have a greater knowledge of government and make more informed, intelligent decisions. I think it will give me a greater sense of community, and enhance leadership skills. I will embark on the kind of accomplishes that society not only recognizes, but rewards.