Do the grades I get in college matter as much as they do in high school?
I try to get good grades in high school because it matters a lot to get into college. Is the same true for grades in college courses to get a job? Does it depend on the job I want to get? #college #human-resources #interviews #interviewing
8 answers
Gabriel Figliuzzi
Gabriel’s Answer
Hi Stacy,
Great questions! There is no single right answer as to whether or not your college GPA will matter so some employers, but I've noticed a trend in which more employers are looking for a GPA of at least 3.0 or higher. In other cases, employers may not ask at all and be satisfied with the fact that you have your college degree.
Just you could get a little insight I searched the job site Indeed.com using "minimum GPA" as the keyword and Chicago, IL as the location:
http://www.indeed.com/jobs?q=minimum+GPA&l=Chicago%2C+IL
You'll see that many are asking for a GPA of at least 3.0, but sometimes a lower GPA is acceptable. Keep in mind that some job listings may not specify a GPA at all.
Things get kind of complicated because there is a lot that you have to consider. If you have an idea of what college majors you are considering and what type of jobs you may want to do, I can give you a clearer picture of what you'll need to do in order to get there. One thing is certain though: It's always better to have a high GPA than not! =)
Wael’s Answer
In short, yes. Also, be prepared to justify your performance if it was not great. Employers in general seek student with 3.0 GPA and higher, but there are some that ask for 3.5. Lastly, isn't is only right to make the most of your college/university education after paying that big check to the institution?
Aimee’s Answer
Hi Stacy. Great question. I think it's fair to say that your college grades do matter for the first couple of jobs you get after graduation. After that, it's your work experience and skills that matter most. Grades are not always indicative of on-the-job success, but if there are many applicants for one position, the GPA is an easy way to narrow the number of choices. So it matters.
If you are going to all the time, trouble and expense to attend college, it only makes sense to do your best, anyway. Personally, I would say to major in something that you really like and your good grades will come. it won't help in the long run to get good grades in something that bores you in order to land a "good" job that doesn't really interest you. Good luck!
Margaret’s Answer
Hi Stacy,
It matters the area you want to work in. I have worked in the creative entertainment marketing space and we never ask people their GPA. It is based on their portfolio and what drives them as a passionate creative. I would imagine other industries it might be more of a factor. I had friends that went into some industries where it was a requirement to meet a certain GPA. Also some students are putting themselves through college and juggling work and school at the same time which sometimes affects grades. It usually can be dealt with in a cover letter etc... If there are areas of interest you have as a career path try to check out job postings for entry level positions and see what you find. Best of luck as you move forward.
Wendy Schwarz
Wendy’s Answer
Hi Stacy.
I believe it depends on the field you are wanting to enter when you graduate from college. I definitely think your GPA in college is more important in your early career than it is when you have established a strong work background. Several things are considered as well when looking at applicants for professional careers. Your type of degree is considered, as well as any internships or work background you have. Generally speaking, it is always good to do the best you can in school, regardless of the type of career or degree you are seeking.
Hope this helps!
Wendy
Ken’s Answer
Hi Stacy!
Employers are looking for people who are always going to do the best job possible for them to enable them to advance their firm towards their goals, so they are going to look at the grades that you had in all courses in high school and college as an indication of the kind of employee you might become. You will be constantly evaluated by the effort that you put into your endeavors, and grades are the best marker while in school and college. With that in mind it pays to always try to do your best in every class to allow you to get into the best colleges and get into the best jobs that will allow you to appropriately use your talents and abilities.
Simeon’s Answer
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
While college grades may not hold the same weight as high school grades in securing a job, they can still influence your career trajectory, especially in certain fields.
In high school, grades often play a pivotal role in college admissions. Students are generally advised to strive for high grades to boost their chances of getting into their preferred colleges or universities. However, once a student enters college, the significance of grades in shaping their future career may vary.
Although it's crucial to perform well in college, many employers prioritize other aspects when evaluating job applicants. These aspects can encompass relevant work experience, internships, involvement in extracurricular activities, and job-related skills. A survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) revealed that a mere 24% of employers deem a candidate's GPA as "very important" in their hiring decisions.
However, it's important to note that certain careers and fields may still highly value good college grades. For instance, sectors like engineering, finance, and healthcare may put more weight on academic success as a measure of a candidate's proficiency and expertise in their field. Moreover, some graduate programs and professional schools, such as law or medical school, necessitate applicants to have a minimum GPA for admission consideration.
Additionally, maintaining high grades in college can offer benefits beyond job acquisition. High grades can pave the way for academic scholarships and awards, provide entry to honors programs and internships, and foster robust study habits and time management skills beneficial for future careers.
In conclusion, while college grades may not be as crucial as high school grades for employment, they can still influence career opportunities depending on the job or field. It's vital for college students to concentrate on cultivating a diverse set of skills and experiences that will render them appealing to prospective employers.
Stay Blessed!
James Constantine.
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