5 Reasons to Go Back to School Now!

 

In today’s economy, completing a college education is more important than ever. While the job market is tough for everyone involved, college graduates are less likely to feel the pressure because employers consider them worthy of hiring due to their credentials.

You truly can change the course of your life by going back to school. However, if you need a bit more convincing, here are five more compelling reasons why you should go back to school now:

1. Make more money. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average annual income for individuals who have completed high school education is $30,000, while the average annual earnings of individuals holding a Bachelor's degree is $52,000. You might be able to give yourself a $22,000 boost in salary just by completing your college education.

• If a person currently holds a Bachelor's degree, they stand to gross a $10,000 pay raise by getting their Master's. Individuals that possess a Master's degree maintain an average annual income of over $62,000.
• Yes, going back to school requires a time investment now, but the benefits will be rewarding for the entirety of your career in terms of salary and career advancement opportunities.

 

 

2. Lead by example. Going back to school not only benefits your family from a financial outlook, it also aids in setting positive examples for your children. Children are more likely to follow suit when they see their parents working towards their degree. You are showing them that earning a college degree is worth the effort. This increases their perceived value of a college education.

3. Get into the career field of your dreams. Maybe the job you have now was intended to be a stepping-stone a few years ago. However, if you are still in the position, it is no longer a stepping-stone - it is your career. Higher education can get you into the career field that you have always dreamt of. 

• A degree or professional certification, combined with your present work experience, can also start you off in a new occupation with a higher salary, considering that you have a workforce skillset.
• Remember: You are not a new college grad without real-world job experience; you bring a lot of value to the table!

4. Gain a competitive edge. It is no secret that the job market is rather glum at the moment. Regrettably, there is no guarantee that it will improve. Whenever you find yourself looking for new employment, you can give yourself a competitive edge over other applicants by listing a college degree as one of your credentials.

• Organizations can get more for their money by employing college graduates. Whenever there is a choice between two applicants, the one with the college degree will more likely get the position.

5. Flexibility. Earning a college education is more flexible than ever. In some cases, you do not even have to leave your home. Online classes are becoming a convenient alternative to in-person schooling being that it fits nicely into the schedules of working professionals. 

• When choosing an online school, verify that the school is accredited. If you feel hesitant to attend a 100% online school, choose a local college that also offers online courses.

 

 

If you are concerned about paying for schooling, talk to your employer. Regardless of the state of the economy, many employers still offer continued education for their employees on the corporate dime. And if your company is one of the many that still offer this benefit to their employees, you stand to gain a college education without a large monetary investment!