College Education is Worth the Money Essay Example

them by offering low wages or treating them unfairly (Zimmerman, 2014). Moreover, university students learn practical skills that are useful in their future careers. These skills acquired in college are applicable not only within the workplace but also in their everyday lives. Graduates gain important social abilities during their studies. These social skills become useful later on and contribute to their job market success.

According to Chickering (1993), college helps develop competence in graduates by equipping them with the specific roles needed in their careers. Lecturers in college stay updated on job requirements and specifications from employers to provide students with the necessary skills to efficiently perform their assigned roles. Additionally, college education assists students in learning how to manage their emotions, as Chickering (1993) states that college life often includes high-stress situations.

Interacting with individuals from various social backgrounds is possible for students in both their dormitories and classrooms. Such interaction can lead to conflicts with other students or the administration. Moreover, students may receive challenging assignments that demand independent work and limited resources. These experiences aid in cultivating emotional management and stress coping strategies, which are beneficial not just for future workplaces but also for high-pressure environments they might face (Zimmerman, 2014).

Working in certain workplaces can be challenging, often requiring employees to work extra hours and with limited resources. In such cases, individuals without a college education may need more time to adjust and excel. Conversely, those who have obtained a college degree possess crucial interpersonal skills that are necessary for building relationships within and outside of the workplace. Furthermore, graduates have the ability to establish their own identity, pursue personal objectives, and demonstrate integrity

in their assigned responsibilities. Moreover, a college education fosters independence – another important value instilled in students.

Chickering (1993) argues that obtaining a college degree enables individuals to transition from autonomy to independence. Colleges promote independence by assigning students individual tasks and assignments, allowing them to cultivate the ability to work independently. In contrast, secondary education fails in teaching these skills, leading graduates to face difficulties in attaining autonomy in their future careers. Despite the perceived advantages of attending college, there are critics who question the worth of post-secondary education.

There are individuals who argue that the time, dedication, and financial resources needed for earning a college degree do not justify its benefits. Critics claim that the advantages of a college education are overshadowed by the cost incurred after graduation. Numerous students depend on institution-provided student loans to afford their education. According to Dan Berrett's (2014) report, the United States' total student loan debt has now exceeded one trillion dollars.

Critics frequently highlight the high expense of college education as a significant problem. They also point to the growing number of college graduates who are unable to find employment, which they believe supports their argument. Berrett (2014) stated that currently, more than 50% of all graduates are without jobs. Additionally, many of these individuals end up working in roles that do not require their qualifications, leaving opportunities for those with only a high school diploma.

According to some critics, the value of college education is not worth the expense. The National Center for Education Statistics (2011-12) states that obtaining a four-year degree at a public campus requires $7,701 in tuition and fees. On the contrary, attending a private college

would cost around $27,686 (Zimmerman, 2014). These figures might appear excessive to potential students who have alternative choices like immediate employment or starting their own successful business.

According to Strohush and Wanner (2015), many students in higher education would likely benefit more without it.

Conclusion

Attending college is undoubtedly a costly and tiring undertaking. Some individuals who have completed their college education believe that the knowledge they acquired does not yield the desired advantages. Those against pursuing higher education argue that the expenses involved are often too high for students who either remain unemployed or end up working in positions that do not require their level of qualifications. Despite these criticisms, higher education equips graduates with valuable skills and experiences that enhance their competitiveness in the job market.

Having a higher level of education, particularly being a college graduate, provides individuals with enhanced qualifications and skills that make them more suitable for well-paying jobs in the job market. Additionally, college education equips graduates with crucial interpersonal and personal abilities that foster independence and autonomy. Therefore, it can be argued that investing in a college education is justified.

References

• Berrett, D. (2014, September 5). Do Americans Expect Too Much From a College Degree? The Chronicle of Higher Education, 61(01). Retrieved from; http://chronicle.com/article/Do-Americans-Expect-Too-Much/148537/
• Chickering, A., & L. (1993). The seven vectors: An overview. Education and identity, 43-52. Retrieved from; http://faculty.winthrop.edu/fullerb/QEP/7%20vectors%20of%20development.pdf
• Strohush, V., & J. (2015). College degree for everyone? International Advances in Economic Research, 21(3), 261+.

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https://www.questia.com/magazine/1G1-364199162/college-works