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Why Go To College?
There are few decisions in life that may seem more daunting (and exciting) than selecting a college. However, before you make this important (and, yes, life-impacting) decision, it would be in your best interest to explore your reasons for going in the first place. We are often told that we HAVE to go to college. It seems like a no-brainer to do so. But why? What are the benefits, and what do you hope to get out of it? Here are some common reasons to get a degree:
- Every bit of education increases the chances you’ll earn good pay (see chart below).
- The more education you get, the more likely it is you will always have a job.
- Continuing education after high school is much more important for your generation than it was for your parents' generation. (Why? Because employers place a greater emphasis on it now.)
- Education beyond high school gives you other benefits, including meeting new people, exploring your interests, and experiencing success.
Once you've answered the question of WHY you want to go to college, the next question to think about is: "WHEN should I go to college?" You might wonder: "Should I wait?" The following are some reasons graduates give for waiting to enroll:
- "I don't know which career(s) I'm interested in (or which major to choose), so I should just wait until I'm sure."
- "I think I want to get a job first and see how that goes. Who knows? I may not need to go to college, if I work my way up the business ladder."
- "I want to 'see the world' before committing to four more years of school."
- "I'm thinking of joining the military instead."
While these are all legitimate reasons to put off "jumping right in", consider the following, in response:
In college, you can select "General Studies" as your major, until you are ready to pick the right one for you. Also, colleges offer a ton of elective courses. Be creative. Think outside the box. Pick ones that "tickle your fancy" and see where they might lead you. For example, you may find that a TV Production course is the most fun you've ever had in a classroom setting. Or that you've got a knack for drama and want to pursue a career in Theater Production. College is not just a place to go to school. It's a place to explore, and to find what's best for you. In addition, there are counselors on campus who can help you narrow down your choices.
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While you may have a good reason for working before entering college (e.g. to save up money, because you don't have enough financial aid), the reality is this: Most likely, the longer you wait, the harder it will be, not only to get in, but also to have what it takes to pass your classes. Think about how much you forget during the summer, between your high school years. That's only 2 months! Multiply that by six, and you've got a year's worth of forgetfulness! Besides, it is very possible to both work and go to school. Most (if not all) colleges offer work study. But, even if you work off-campus, manage your time well, and you can handle a job AND study load. [Insider's TIP: Find a job that has some "down" time, so that you can do homework on the job. Just be sure it's allowable. You don't want to be fired for slacking off!]
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If traveling around the world is your passion, there are a couple of options you can choose WHILE attending college. The first is to study abroad. Many schools offer semester (or even year-long) classes in foreign countries. These offer the opportunity to not only learn about a new culture, but also to gain insight into educational practices around the world. Plus, you'll make new friends you can visit down-the-road! The second option is to select a major where traveling is likely: e.g. foreign studies or international business. Picking a "travel-friendly" major can allow you to complete an internship overseas or one that requires frequent globe-trotting. Finally, there are plenty of volunteer organizations you can join, which offer service opportunities in other parts of the world. (Click here for a list of some of them. NOTE: This list is not comprehensive.)
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Joining the military certainly is a viable and noble venture (and one to be decided on with the entire family). For many, the call to sign up is strong and may be based on a number of factors: the desire to serve one's country, to follow in the footsteps of a veteran relative or friend, or to excel in a specific skill or area of work offered by the military. Whatever the motive, if you are seriously considering this option, it is in your best interest to know the different avenues you can take. For example, did you know you can apply to - and attend - college immediately after high school and receive a scholarship via a ROTC program? Students who enroll in this program acquire a full "paid college education and a guaranteed post-college career*." Furthermore, enlistees are trained to become officers in the military and, upon graduation, enter the branch of their choice as an officer. Over 1,000 colleges and universities across the United States offer such a program, which is a mix of regular academic, as well as, field training. Understand, however, that you are obligated to commit to a Service branch immediately following graduation. Click here for more information on these opportunities.
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* Today's Military: ROTC http://www.todaysmilitary.com/before-serving-in-the-military/rotc-programs.
How Do I Pick The Right College For Me?
Okay, so you've decided you're going to college. And soon. What next? Click on the picture below to find out.