16 answers
18
Asked 1038 views

Do you think the point of college is to get a high paying job Why or why not.?

Is college worth it? Comminlit assignment.

college
Answer This

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you
18

16 answers

1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Andreina’s Answer

The point of college extends beyond the sole pursuit of a high-paying job. While career prospects are undoubtedly a significant consideration, the value of a college education includes aspects that contribute to your personal and social development. A college education exposes you to situations and people that you would not normally encounter on your day to day. Beyond the obvious lessons in critical thinking, time and project management, problem-solving and skill development for your specific domain, college teaches you A LOT about yourself. About how to learn from others and how to teach others. You go to a place where the sole purpose of people being there is to teach you, augment you, develop you and grow you as a person and as a professional.
In my first job, I realized that the lessons learned in college extended far beyond the technical skills acquired. While my initial role didn't come with a hefty paycheck, the critical thinking, communication skills, and ability to collaborate that I developed in college were instrumental in navigating the challenges of the workplace. The friendships and connections forged during my college years provided invaluable support for years to come. A former professor recommended me for a position that wasn't just about the salary but aligned with my passion and allowed for personal growth. It was in this role that I found fulfillment and a sense of purpose.
Over time, I did see financial success, but the richness of my college experience extended far beyond the monetary gains.
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Jerome’s Answer

College as part of an overall plan makes sense. If you are going to college simply with the hope that it will payoff, you might be in trouble.

I think College + Networking + Internships can equal success, but just having a degree is no longer a silver bullet.
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Patrick’s Answer

Vincent, first this is just my opinion. I believe that the primary aim of college reaches beyond the pursuit of a high-paying job, focusing on holistic personal and intellectual development. Yes, I do think the end goal is getting a job, but the determination of whether or not it is high-paying or not is dependant upon a number of factors of which a college degree is one of them. Also college acts as a transformative space, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a broader worldview alongside specialized knowledge. Throughout history there have been several individuals who started with college, but dropped out to puruse their real passion and have become extremely successful.

Nonetheless, the multifaceted nature of college equips individuals with adaptability, resilience, and creativity for navigating life's challenges. Beyond immediate financial gains, a college education instills a lifelong love for learning, encourages intellectual curiosity, and facilitates meaningful contributions to society through a valuable network of peers and mentors.

As I said before, the worth of going to college is nuanced and depends on individual goals and circumstances, as it extends beyond increased earning potential to encompass personal growth, exposure to diverse perspectives, and the development of essential life skills.

Ultimately, while the pursuit of a high-paying job is one aspect, the true value of college lies in its comprehensive and enduring impact on an individual's personal and professional journey.
1
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Ige’s Answer

The purpose of college is diverse for many. Some people enjoy gaining knowledge, want personal growth, or want to gain professional networks. While high-paying jobs may motivate some people, others focus on their passions. In addition to gaining academic skills, people also gain crucial life and soft skills. Communicating with professors and peers enhances future opportunities. However, economic considerations, including rising costs, influence the decision also. Plans may change, and unforeseen experiences shape the journey, fostering adaptability. In essence, college offers a transformative period for self-discovery, independence, and resilience. The way people value college changes. Some factors considered are; balancing career goals, personal development, and economic factors in the decision-making process.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Bhupendra’s Answer

Ah, great question! While getting a high-paying job is a common outcome of attending college, I don't think it's the sole purpose or definition of a college education. College is also about:

• Personal growth and development
• Exploring passions and interests
• Building critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Developing a well-rounded worldview through diverse coursework
• Networking and building lifelong connections
• Preparing for graduate studies or specialized fields
• Enriching one's life with knowledge and experiences

Whether or not college is "worth it" depends on individual goals and circumstances. Some may find success without college, while others may benefit greatly from the opportunities and experiences it provides. Ultimately, college is a personal choice and investment in one's future.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

deborah’s Answer

Hello Vincent! Great question. Research studies indicate that the more education you have, the higher your earnings over your career.

These days, many jobs require some college education. However, there are many careers that do not - particularly, technical and trade careers, such as plumbing, electrician, information technology, construction, etc.

However, the point of college is:
- To explore a career - you may decide on one college major, but change your mind while as you learn more and get exposed to more in college
- To prepare for a career (as cost-effectively as possible)
- To help further develop you as a person - this is just as important as gaining knowledge because "success" doesn't come from knowledge alone.
- To build relationships

I hope my answer is helpful to you. Good luck!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Shalmalee’s Answer

I just graduated from college a few months ago, and it helped me get the job I have right now. So yes, part of the deal is getting a job.
However, college was the place where I learned what hobbies I'm interested in and got to have some incredible conversations with people my own age and much older. The privilege of getting an experience learning how to learn and learning how to teach is invaluable.
- Learning how to break down difficult concepts and ingrain them into your brain is a skill that will take you far beyond a good paying job.
- Learning how to teach someone a topic is also crucial.
- Learning how to deal with people when you don't always agree with them or get along is important.
- Learning to take on leadership roles to show yourself what you can do (and doesn't hurt to add it to your resume as well) in a scenario with almost no real-world consequences is so helpful
The "high-paying" job helps in paying back loans you take out for college however. So, it is an important part of it unfortunately. If finances are an issue, make sure you're getting the most out of your college degree in order to pay back those loans.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Megan’s Answer

Hi Vincent,

Great question. Going to college weather it is an Associate's degree or higher can lead to higher paying jobs than just having a high school diploma. It really depends on your goals and what your idea of a higher paying job is. It is important to understand what your degree is setting you up for.

For me going to college was about getting the college experience- I wanted to be a student athlete, study abroad and do internships. I wanted to meet new people, explore my career options and to get out of my town.

I think there is a lot of value in going away to college, getting out of the place you have always known and having four or more years of time to grow up. There are many experiences that you can only do while in college that make it worth going to more than just class.

I always advise students to just be smart about how much you spend on college and the loans you take out. You want the cost of your degree to be no more than what your starting salary would be.

You have to decide what you want out of college and what the value or worth of it is to you.

I hope this helps!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Alan’s Answer

Vincent, some think that. And the statistics do back up the fact that college graduates earn significantly more. But do I, as a retired college instructor, think that... no. College provides so much more: learning how to think, question, make choices, learn about yourself and others from diverse backgrounds, and find a path for your future that is not just about money, but fulfillment and purpose. There ae some, of course, for whom in a sense it's not "worth it," like supremely gifted athletes or entertainers. But for the rest of us, it most definitely is.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Obi Obanghe -’s Answer

A very way to respond to this question
is to consider if the country is developing or developed. In countries where people struggle to get everything, college becomes a major platform and a guarantee for a good pay, This is not entirely the case for developed countries where Jobs are guaranteed and readily available and might be based more on experiences gathered along the way. Generally, going to college gives you an edge over those who didn't
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Angela’s Answer

College isn't always about landing a lucrative job. It's more about finding a career that brings satisfaction and fulfillment. So, I encourage you to take some time for self-reflection. What stirs your passion? What fuels your inspiration? These are essential questions to consider in your quest for a meaningful career. Weigh the pros and cons. Remember, college isn't the only path to success. Many people thrive without a degree.

Entrepreneurship is another avenue to consider, and creative fields can be equally rewarding. Vocational apprenticeships also offer promising opportunities. Some trades can be as financially rewarding as a career that requires a degree. So, don't limit your options. Use the internet to your advantage. Research different career paths and see which ones align with your interests and potential for growth.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Akeem M.’s Answer

Whether or not college is worth it is subjective. It varies from person to person. If you're going to school solely for the purpose of acquiring a high-paying job, I would advise having a game plan regarding what you want that career to be. Not everyone that went to college is rolling in the dough and there are some people that didn't go that end up having more money than they know what to do with. The goal of college is not to prepare you for a high paying job, but to prepare you to contribute to society so that you leave your city, your town, your state, or this planet a little better than the way you found it. Chase what it is that you're truly passionate about and view monetary gain as a secondary objective, not a primary.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Vincent,

Is the Point of College to Get a High-Paying Job?

The purpose of college is often debated, with some arguing that its primary goal is to prepare students for high-paying jobs, while others believe that it serves a broader educational purpose. The answer to this question is multifaceted and depends on various factors, including individual goals, societal needs, and economic realities.

Education vs. Job Training

One perspective on the purpose of college is that it should primarily provide education rather than job training. Proponents of this view argue that college should be a place where students engage in critical thinking, develop analytical skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them. They believe that the true value of a college education lies in its ability to foster intellectual growth and personal development, regardless of whether it directly leads to a high-paying job.

Economic Realities

On the other hand, the economic landscape plays a significant role in shaping the perception of college as a pathway to high-paying jobs. In today’s competitive job market, many students and their families view higher education as an investment in future financial stability. The rising cost of tuition and student loan debt has further emphasized the importance of obtaining a degree that can lead to lucrative employment opportunities.

Societal Expectations

Societal expectations also influence the perception of college as a means to secure a high-paying job. There is often pressure from family, peers, and society at large for individuals to pursue higher education with the expectation that it will result in improved career prospects and financial success. This external pressure can shape students’ motivations for attending college and their subsequent career aspirations.

Balancing Education and Career Preparation

In reality, the purpose of college encompasses both education and career preparation. While acquiring knowledge and developing critical thinking skills are fundamental aspects of higher education, colleges also play a crucial role in equipping students with the practical skills and credentials necessary for their chosen careers. Many institutions offer specialized programs and resources designed to facilitate career readiness and professional development.

Personal Fulfillment

It’s important to consider that the value of college extends beyond financial gain. For many individuals, pursuing higher education is driven by a desire for personal fulfillment, intellectual curiosity, and a passion for learning. The intrinsic rewards of acquiring knowledge and engaging in academic pursuits should not be overlooked when discussing the purpose of college.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while obtaining a high-paying job may be one of the motivations for attending college, it is not the sole purpose of higher education. College serves as a multifaceted institution that provides intellectual growth, career preparation, personal development, and societal contributions. Ultimately, the purpose of college varies from person to person and encompasses a wide range of educational, professional, and personal objectives.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:

The Chronicle of Higher Education: This source provides in-depth analysis and reporting on issues related to higher education, including discussions on the purpose and value of college.
Harvard Business Review: Known for its rigorous research and insights into business and management topics, this source offers valuable perspectives on the relationship between education and career outcomes.
Pew Research Center: A reputable source for data-driven research on societal trends and public opinion, including studies on attitudes towards higher education and its perceived benefits.

These sources were instrumental in providing comprehensive information on the multifaceted nature of college education and its relationship to career prospects.

GOD BLESS!
James.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Matt’s Answer

Hi Vincent,

You don't have to get a high paying job to attend college. The main point of college is to prepare for your future job as well as start building friendships and your network. You need to ask yourself what you want to do, and if you can achieve this without a college degree. If you need a degree and you know it's something you are passionate about it doesn't need to be the highest paying job.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Yaz’s Answer

This varies on what you want to do. Its always good to have a good depth of knowledge for any career but is college necessary for that? It really depends. If you want to be a doctor, yes college is worth it because you need all that knowledge and a degree. If you want to be a cross country trucker, you will not need a degree so college is not worth it but knowing the ins and outs of roads and how to maneuver a truck correctly will have to be learned. It depends on what you want to do but just know, each choice has its pros and cons. Some jobs will require you to have a college degree to apply, but also going to college can leave you with lots of debt potentially. Make sure to weigh your overall pros and cons depending on the career you want.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Rebecca’s Answer

Thank you for your question. I believe the purpose of attending college is for high pay job. In the college, you can learn knowledge of relevant subjects and it can train up your critical thinking and analytical skills. This is essential in all careers. On the other hand, it requires an undergraduate indeed, e.g. accounting, engineering, law, medical, etc. However, the most important is for you to find out what careers you have interest. It is not all careers requiring a college degree but it is better to attend vocation school, e.g. culinary, make up, hair dressing, etc.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favourite subjects, etc.
E.g. If you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music composer, music producer, etc.
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, engineer, banker, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Determine you would need to attend college or vocation training for these careers
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
0