Will Attending College Change My Chances at Success?

Attending college can significantly impact your chances at success, but the effect depends on how you optimize your experience. Simply going through the motions without leveraging the benefits of a college education may not significantly alter your prospects. However, if you use your college education to focus on career development, your potential for success is likely to increase.

It Dependent on Your Definition of Success

The concept of success can vary widely, and its definition can impact the perceived value of a college education. In monetary terms, the answer is yes. According to a recent study by Georgetown University, college graduates earn an average of a million more in lifetime earnings. Additionally, the Pew Research Center found that, in 2016, the median yearly income difference between high school and college graduates was around $17,000.

College Education and Its Impact on Career Success

While college can increase your earning potential, it's important to consider the broader scope of success. Success isn't solely about financial gain. Rather, it can encompass career advancement, personal fulfillment, and a sense of purpose. For many, achieving a large income or holding a position of power in the workplace can be a key component of success.

Realities and Exceptions

However, there are exceptions. Unless you are an internationally ranked athlete or dancer, who have careers limited by their physical capacity, attending college can still offer significant benefits. These individuals often choose to enter their careers at a younger age, leveraging their prime physical years before they decline.

It's crucial to be honest with yourself and define what success means to you. For instance, many teachers with college degrees find that their income and student loans make it challenging to maintain financial stability. Yet, some teachers consider their careers successful because they empower their students.

Certain careers, such as those in law or medicine, unequivocally require specific degrees, and these fields often offer excellent earning potential and career advancement. However, there are many other pathways to success. For example, vocational schools, which do not require the same breadth of coursework as a traditional four-year degree, can provide a pathway for success too.

Alternatives to Traditional College

Consider vocational schools as an alternative. These programs offer specialized training that can lead to immediate employment in fields such as heating and air conditioning, where those working in such trades often operate their own successful businesses. For those not interested in traditional paths, military service, international peace corps, or law enforcement can also be valuable and rewarding choices.

In conclusion, attending college can indeed change your chances at success, but the impact depends on how you utilize the educational resources you obtain. Whether your goal is monetary gain, career advancement, or personal fulfillment, college can be a valuable tool in achieving your definition of success.