12 answers
Boone
Student
Cookeville, Tennessee
1
Question
Asked
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Why should I go to college to get a job in my future?
I want to go to college but I also want to be debt free for as much of my life as possible. I need to know why it is important to attend college and how I can be debt free.
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12 answers
Anthony Kofi Hene-Amoah
Translation, Editing, Project Management, Research and Evangelism
210
Answers
Jema, Brong Ahafo Region
Updated
Anthony’s Answer
Please, note the following, relating to why you should go to college to get a job in your future:-
1. Through college, you gain much knowledge, concerning many aspects of life, especially, relating to the type of business you would like to undertake in future.
2. You would learn a lot about business, finance, administration, management, communication, and other skills to assist you towards your career in the future.
Best regards.
1. Through college, you gain much knowledge, concerning many aspects of life, especially, relating to the type of business you would like to undertake in future.
2. You would learn a lot about business, finance, administration, management, communication, and other skills to assist you towards your career in the future.
Best regards.
Stefan Aubertin
General Manager
9
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Stefan’s Answer
I worked for a long time in an industry where many jobs do not require a college degree. I will say, however, there are a number of other things to consider.
Attending a college isn't only about acquiring a degree for purposes of getting a better paying job. It's also not just about studying and doing your coursework. The college experience offers are great opportunity to network both during your enrollment and beyond. While attending, besides what you learn from your professors, you have an opportunity to connect with fellow students. If you choose to surround yourself with people that are a good influence, that is peers who you can learn from and who challenge you, there is significant personal growth potential. From these connections, countless doors can be opened. Beyond your college years, you gain an instant common ground for networking. If you find yourself looking for a job down the road, having attended college gives you a topic for outreach to people working at your target companies or in your target industry. In addition, as an alum, most schools continue to provide career support and host periodic events that can support continued networking and lifelong learning.
Don't let cost be a barrier. There are several answers on this thread as to how to mitigate that issue. I'm not suggesting that you bury yourself in debt, but attending community college for a couple of years can reduce your overall tuition cost and begin the process of exploration and growth to propel you forward.
Attending a college isn't only about acquiring a degree for purposes of getting a better paying job. It's also not just about studying and doing your coursework. The college experience offers are great opportunity to network both during your enrollment and beyond. While attending, besides what you learn from your professors, you have an opportunity to connect with fellow students. If you choose to surround yourself with people that are a good influence, that is peers who you can learn from and who challenge you, there is significant personal growth potential. From these connections, countless doors can be opened. Beyond your college years, you gain an instant common ground for networking. If you find yourself looking for a job down the road, having attended college gives you a topic for outreach to people working at your target companies or in your target industry. In addition, as an alum, most schools continue to provide career support and host periodic events that can support continued networking and lifelong learning.
Don't let cost be a barrier. There are several answers on this thread as to how to mitigate that issue. I'm not suggesting that you bury yourself in debt, but attending community college for a couple of years can reduce your overall tuition cost and begin the process of exploration and growth to propel you forward.
David Posadas
Facilitador de Aprendizaje
8
Answers
Córdoba, Mexico
Updated
David’s Answer
Hello Boone
Going to university is important because statistics show that, on average, people with university degrees earn more over their working lives than those with only basic or upper secondary education. At university, you not only learn theory but also develop skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and more.
To get into university, you need a strategy: set a goal, research the admission requirements, study for the entrance exam, maintain good grades in high school, organize your documents, and register on time. Most importantly, believe in yourself. Regarding debt, it's positive when it generates a future benefit greater than the cost of the money. It's not bad to go into debt; it's bad to go into debt unwisely. There's a golden rule: if debt doesn't benefit you, it's bad.
Going to university is important because statistics show that, on average, people with university degrees earn more over their working lives than those with only basic or upper secondary education. At university, you not only learn theory but also develop skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and more.
To get into university, you need a strategy: set a goal, research the admission requirements, study for the entrance exam, maintain good grades in high school, organize your documents, and register on time. Most importantly, believe in yourself. Regarding debt, it's positive when it generates a future benefit greater than the cost of the money. It's not bad to go into debt; it's bad to go into debt unwisely. There's a golden rule: if debt doesn't benefit you, it's bad.
Hind Roubos
Executive Management
5
Answers
Danville, California
Updated
Hind’s Answer
Great question! I think the main answer is because these days, it's much harder to get a good paying job without a degree. I got in High Tech in the early 90s and it was a bit easier to not have a degree but nowadays it's harder. Maybe try going to a community college for 2 years (super cheap) then transfer to a university so that way you'll only have 2 years of tuition to pay!
Robert Epstein
General Manager
123
Answers
Wake Forest
Updated
Robert’s Answer
Hi Boone,
I faced the same dilemma when I started college. Here’s a few choices to consider: (1) Get a job during the summers while attending college. (2) Work for a few years before attending college. (3) Attend a college that offers a “Co-Op Program” -- where you go to school part-time and work for a salary part-time.
I respect your desire to be debt free!
I faced the same dilemma when I started college. Here’s a few choices to consider: (1) Get a job during the summers while attending college. (2) Work for a few years before attending college. (3) Attend a college that offers a “Co-Op Program” -- where you go to school part-time and work for a salary part-time.
I respect your desire to be debt free!
Jill M. H. Notz, MBA, CPA
Accountant
4
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Jill M. H.’s Answer
Previous answers to your questions have been excellent! There are many advantages to attending college:
1. It helps you transition into adult life.
2. If you approach it seriously, it offers a chance to learn about many different subjects you might not encounter otherwise.
However, let's consider the downsides. The biggest challenge is often the cost, but there are many ways to reduce it. You can look into scholarships, grants, community colleges, and companies that offer tuition reimbursement. I returned to school, completed two master's degrees, and earned my CPA, all through different funding methods. I don't regret the effort at all, as my education and experience have greatly contributed to my success.
Best of luck!
1. It helps you transition into adult life.
2. If you approach it seriously, it offers a chance to learn about many different subjects you might not encounter otherwise.
However, let's consider the downsides. The biggest challenge is often the cost, but there are many ways to reduce it. You can look into scholarships, grants, community colleges, and companies that offer tuition reimbursement. I returned to school, completed two master's degrees, and earned my CPA, all through different funding methods. I don't regret the effort at all, as my education and experience have greatly contributed to my success.
Best of luck!
Ingrid Green
drones. college. money.
4
Answers
Wichita, Kansas
Updated
Ingrid’s Answer
You shouldn't need to attend college or secure a certification like CPA (certified public accountant) or CFA (chartered financial analyst) to have a good relationship with money. There are apps, websites, books and people that can teach you about definitions, tools and strategies to groom & grow money. Invest in yourself by digging into those resources. Time will pass anyway and you're gonna need access to money for the rest of your life.
Carolina Undurraga
M&A Advisory
24
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Carolina’s Answer
It's great that you're thinking about debt before making a decision. This shows you're being smart and thoughtful.
College offers more than just a degree. It's about gaining access to knowledgeable professors, structured courses to build your skills, and valuable resources like career services and internships. You'll also meet classmates who might become future business partners or important connections in your field. This environment can help you grow and prepare for your career much faster than going it alone.
Wanting to avoid debt is a wise goal. Start researching scholarships early. Look for local community scholarships, foundation awards, and school-specific opportunities. Applying might require essays, recommendation letters, and interviews, but the effort can really pay off.
Compare colleges carefully. Different schools offer various financial aid packages and scholarships. Two schools with similar tuition can cost very different amounts after aid. Some schools are more generous with merit aid, while others cover full financial needs. Researching early helps you make smart choices.
Think of college as an investment. Ask yourself if the path is worth the cost and how you can reduce that cost. For some careers, a degree can open doors quickly. In others, there might be different paths. If college is right for you, planning ahead, applying for scholarships, and comparing financial aid can help you stay as debt-free as possible.
College offers more than just a degree. It's about gaining access to knowledgeable professors, structured courses to build your skills, and valuable resources like career services and internships. You'll also meet classmates who might become future business partners or important connections in your field. This environment can help you grow and prepare for your career much faster than going it alone.
Wanting to avoid debt is a wise goal. Start researching scholarships early. Look for local community scholarships, foundation awards, and school-specific opportunities. Applying might require essays, recommendation letters, and interviews, but the effort can really pay off.
Compare colleges carefully. Different schools offer various financial aid packages and scholarships. Two schools with similar tuition can cost very different amounts after aid. Some schools are more generous with merit aid, while others cover full financial needs. Researching early helps you make smart choices.
Think of college as an investment. Ask yourself if the path is worth the cost and how you can reduce that cost. For some careers, a degree can open doors quickly. In others, there might be different paths. If college is right for you, planning ahead, applying for scholarships, and comparing financial aid can help you stay as debt-free as possible.
Kim Torrance
Executive Concierge
2
Answers
Wesley Chapel, Florida
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Hi Boone,
This is a valid worry in today age with the rising cost of tuition. I think it is dependent on the job you want as well. I think that society is moving towards not basing job requirements on a college degree, but I don't think we are there yet and most positions still require it. Even if you elect to pursue a trades job, getting a degree you can learn experience about business management or even just develop other skills that you didn't in high school with working with others, teamwork, communication styles, problem solving. If you do pursue to go to college, you can look into different options to lower the costs. If you go to a state school take advantage of in-state tuition. You can also apply for many scholarships merit or reward based. Also there are other opportunities as on campus jobs, being a residential assistant can get you free room and boarding. Also, there are different degrees - associates normally 2 hours vs bachelors is 4 years. You can go part time while having a job to cover some costs as well.
This is a valid worry in today age with the rising cost of tuition. I think it is dependent on the job you want as well. I think that society is moving towards not basing job requirements on a college degree, but I don't think we are there yet and most positions still require it. Even if you elect to pursue a trades job, getting a degree you can learn experience about business management or even just develop other skills that you didn't in high school with working with others, teamwork, communication styles, problem solving. If you do pursue to go to college, you can look into different options to lower the costs. If you go to a state school take advantage of in-state tuition. You can also apply for many scholarships merit or reward based. Also there are other opportunities as on campus jobs, being a residential assistant can get you free room and boarding. Also, there are different degrees - associates normally 2 hours vs bachelors is 4 years. You can go part time while having a job to cover some costs as well.
Priyali Kasera (she/her)
Finance
8
Answers
Gurugram, Haryana, India
Updated
Priyali’s Answer
Hey Boone, while college isn't the only way to succeed, it can open doors that might be harder to access without a degree. Many fields like business, finance, medicine, engineering, education, and technology often require formal training. A college degree can provide you with skills, connections, and confidence to compete for stable, growing, and well-paying jobs.
On the flip side, staying debt-free is wise. Debt can linger for years, so planning is as important as the degree itself.
How college can benefit your future:
- You gain the specialized knowledge employers want.
- You build a network of classmates, professors, and mentors.
- You get access to internships, which can lead to full-time jobs.
- You learn to think critically, solve problems, and communicate well, skills useful in any field.
Ways to reduce or avoid debt:
- Start at a community college and then transfer to a university.
- Apply for scholarships every year, not just at the start.
- Work part-time or choose paid internships to help with costs.
- Consider in-state schools or those with good financial aid.
- Live at home if you can to save on housing.
The goal is to balance getting a good education with staying financially stable. With careful planning, you can achieve both—a strong career and a debt-free beginning.
Wishing you a bright future and an easy path ahead. All the best, Champ!
On the flip side, staying debt-free is wise. Debt can linger for years, so planning is as important as the degree itself.
How college can benefit your future:
- You gain the specialized knowledge employers want.
- You build a network of classmates, professors, and mentors.
- You get access to internships, which can lead to full-time jobs.
- You learn to think critically, solve problems, and communicate well, skills useful in any field.
Ways to reduce or avoid debt:
- Start at a community college and then transfer to a university.
- Apply for scholarships every year, not just at the start.
- Work part-time or choose paid internships to help with costs.
- Consider in-state schools or those with good financial aid.
- Live at home if you can to save on housing.
The goal is to balance getting a good education with staying financially stable. With careful planning, you can achieve both—a strong career and a debt-free beginning.
Wishing you a bright future and an easy path ahead. All the best, Champ!
Carolina Undurraga
M&A Advisory
24
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Carolina’s Answer
College is a great way to boost your future career, not just because of the degree but also the opportunities it brings. Many jobs still need a college education, and even where it's not required, having a degree can make you stand out and increase your earning potential over time. College also offers structured learning, exposure to new ideas, and the chance to build skills like critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving that are valuable in any job.
One of the best parts of college is the chance to network. You can connect with professors, alumni, career fairs, internships, and student groups. These connections often lead to job opportunities. Your first job can be influenced by who you meet, and college provides a natural setting for building these relationships. Plus, you get access to resources like career counseling, resume workshops, internship support, and mentorship programs that can shape your career path.
It’s smart to think about college costs, but you don't have to take on huge loans. Be strategic. Scholarships can greatly reduce costs. There are scholarships for good grades, test scores, leadership, sports, or other talents, and financial aid based on need. Many schools offer generous aid, and applying to different universities can lead to better financial offers.
Besides university scholarships, there are many opportunities in your community and state. Local businesses, community groups, religious organizations, employers, and nonprofits often offer smaller scholarships that add up. Applying takes effort, but it can pay off. Start early and apply to as many scholarships as you can to lower your costs.
You can also save money by attending an in-state public university, starting at a community college, living at home, or choosing an accelerated program. Working during college through internships, co-op programs, or part-time jobs can help cover expenses and gain experience. The goal is to invest in your future while keeping your finances in check. College can open many doors, especially when you have a clear plan and focus on long-term financial health.
One of the best parts of college is the chance to network. You can connect with professors, alumni, career fairs, internships, and student groups. These connections often lead to job opportunities. Your first job can be influenced by who you meet, and college provides a natural setting for building these relationships. Plus, you get access to resources like career counseling, resume workshops, internship support, and mentorship programs that can shape your career path.
It’s smart to think about college costs, but you don't have to take on huge loans. Be strategic. Scholarships can greatly reduce costs. There are scholarships for good grades, test scores, leadership, sports, or other talents, and financial aid based on need. Many schools offer generous aid, and applying to different universities can lead to better financial offers.
Besides university scholarships, there are many opportunities in your community and state. Local businesses, community groups, religious organizations, employers, and nonprofits often offer smaller scholarships that add up. Applying takes effort, but it can pay off. Start early and apply to as many scholarships as you can to lower your costs.
You can also save money by attending an in-state public university, starting at a community college, living at home, or choosing an accelerated program. Working during college through internships, co-op programs, or part-time jobs can help cover expenses and gain experience. The goal is to invest in your future while keeping your finances in check. College can open many doors, especially when you have a clear plan and focus on long-term financial health.
Maribell Fernández
Human Resourses
2
Answers
Mexico City, Mexico
Updated
Maribell’s Answer
Some of the reasons why I would totally recommend someone should go to college to get a job in the future:
1- Better Job Opportunities: Many employers require a college degree as a minimum qualification, opening doors to a wider range of job options.
2-Higher Earning Potential: College graduates often earn higher salaries compared to those without a degree.
3-Skill Development: College provides specialized knowledge and skills relevant to specific careers, making graduates more prepared for the workforce
4-Networking Opportunities: College allows students to build professional connections with peers, professors, and industry professionals that can help in job hunting.
5-Personal Growth: Attending college helps develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills that are valuable in any job.
6- Career Advancement: A degree can be essential for promotions and advancement within many industries.
7-Global Competitiveness: Earning a degree can make candidates more competitive in an increasingly global job market.
8- Lifelong Learning: College encourages a habit of continuous learning, which is important in adapting to changing job markets and technologies.
College will make you creative to manage work life
1- Better Job Opportunities: Many employers require a college degree as a minimum qualification, opening doors to a wider range of job options.
2-Higher Earning Potential: College graduates often earn higher salaries compared to those without a degree.
3-Skill Development: College provides specialized knowledge and skills relevant to specific careers, making graduates more prepared for the workforce
4-Networking Opportunities: College allows students to build professional connections with peers, professors, and industry professionals that can help in job hunting.
5-Personal Growth: Attending college helps develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills that are valuable in any job.
6- Career Advancement: A degree can be essential for promotions and advancement within many industries.
7-Global Competitiveness: Earning a degree can make candidates more competitive in an increasingly global job market.
8- Lifelong Learning: College encourages a habit of continuous learning, which is important in adapting to changing job markets and technologies.
College will make you creative to manage work life