For most people, college was the key to unlocking a whole new breadth of career and life opportunities. However, most people aren’t enrolling in school to sit through lectures, write papers, or attend classes. Most people are attending classes to better their lives – in a multitude of ways. Beyond being a mere milestone, it represents a pivotal moment in the lives of individuals, shaping their trajectories and influencing the course of themselves at large. While the motivations behind this choice may vary from person to person, several common themes underpin the pursuit of higher education.
Career Advancement
At the forefront of many individuals’ minds is the desire for enhanced career prospects and financial stability. In an increasingly competitive job market, a college degree serves as a prerequisite for entry into many professions, opening doors to higher-paying jobs, opportunities for advancement, and greater job security. Earning a college degree can help people advance their careers in these areas, though is not limited to:
- Skill specialization – Through hands-on experiences, internships, and practical training, students develop a deep understanding of their industry-specific concepts and practices.
- Credentialing – In many professions, a college degree serves as a fundamental credential that signals competency and readiness for entry-level positions. Employers often prioritize candidates with a college education, viewing it as a reliable indicator of dedication and discipline.
- Adaptability – College fosters intellectual curiosity and continuous learning, instilling in students the ability to adapt to new challenges, technologies, and industry trends. The instillment of a desire to learn better prepares workers to adapt to new challenges in their career.
Entrepreneurial Pursuits
For many looking to create a business or even learn skills to advance their already developed business, college is an excellent tool for entrepreneurs. Business programs provided by colleges empower students to develop their entrepreneurial skills, access mentorship, and gain practical experience in building and scaling their businesses.
Not only that, but college can be an excellent networking tool – not only with fellow students, but with instructors and professors as well. Higher education institutions serve as hubs of professional networking, connecting students with industry experts, alumni, and potential employers. To learn more about networking while attending American National University, click here.
Economic Mobility
For many, college is the way to break the cycle of poverty for themselves and their family. Research from the Social Security Administration shows that men and women who earn their bachelor’s degree earn significantly more than those without, around $900,000 more in median lifetime earnings for men, and $630,000 more for women. And even more so for those who earn a graduate degree or higher. By investing in higher education, individuals can command higher wages and access a broader range of career opportunities, leading to greater financial stability and independence over the course of their careers.
Moreover, certain industries and professions require specialized knowledge and skills that can only be acquired through higher education. By pursuing degrees in fields such as STEM, healthcare, and business, individuals can position themselves for employment in high-growth sectors with abundant opportunities for career advancement and financial rewards. A college education can provide a degree of protection against economic downturns and industry disruptions by giving individuals transferable skills and credentials that are in demand across various sectors.
Personal Growth
While college can provide a sense of security in career advancement, it also provides the tools many need in order to achieve personal growth. College is a time of self-exploration and identity formation, as students navigate new experiences, relationships, and challenges. Whether the student is single and fresh out of high school, or an adult with a family, an existing career, and been away from school for a while, college is a chance for many to discover new things about themselves that they didn’t get to explore before.
At its core, higher education is about more than just memorizing facts and figures—it’s about cultivating critical thinking skills and the ability to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information. From course work to class discussions, students learn to evaluate complex issues, challenge assumptions, and approach problems with creativity and resourcefulness. These skills are invaluable not only in academic settings but also in navigating the complexities of the world beyond the classroom.
Whether driven by the desire for career advancement, intellectual curiosity, or personal growth, individuals embark on this path with the hope of realizing their fullest potential and making a meaningful impact in the world. American National University stands out as a beacon of opportunity for students at any age to enter higher education. From our flexible, online programs, career-focused education, or personalized support services in financial aid and career services, we have what you want in a college education. To learn more about ANU and how we help students like you on their journey to earning a diploma, go to an.edu/success-stories/.
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