Is a College Degree Worth It?

July 11, 2011|How to find a job| No comments yet

Conventional wisdom says earn your degree and secure your place in society. You have followed all the rules and earned your degree, but you cannot land that perfect job or any job for that matter. Unless you are one of the lucky ones, student loans have piled up and repayment is looming at your doorstep. Many traditional and older students are facing this same dilemma. In this current economy, landing any job is difficult at best.

A traditional student is around 22 years old and odds are in their favor that they will have many years ahead of them. As difficult as it is to land any type of job, students should consider accepting a lesser position or part-time position. While employed in that part-time job to pay the bills, keep looking for another opportunity. In order to keep skills up-to-date, volunteer or take a class in your area of interest or expertise. While waiting out the recession, you will gain valuable work experience and demonstrate responsibility.

Many older students are in the same situation as traditional students with the exception of having work experience. Older students may face age discrimination as part of their job search, have difficulty make a career change or have inappropriate work experience. Like traditional students, the student loans have to be repaid and unemployment or underemployment does not help the situation. As difficult as it is finding any job during this recession, students need to remain positive. Take whatever job becomes available and keep looking for a sustainable, relevant position. In order for students to keep their skills up-to-date, take classes or volunteer in areas of interest or expertise. While waiting out the recession, consider going back to school for a bachelor’s degree.

Is it worth the effort and money to earn a college degree? You bet it is. Although current economic conditions may question the worth of a college degree, keep in mind that education is an investment in you. The new conventional wisdom states a college degree is now required for many jobs that once required only a high school diploma. In addition, a college degree is required for most entry level career positions. With so many people earning college degrees, perhaps a master’s degree will help you stand out; however, beware of this perception. Do your research on advancing your education. The economy will improve eventually and your college degree will be a great asset for landing a wonderful job.