Statistics bear out the fact that higher education means more money over a lifetime, and high school students have plenty to think about when they ponder a decision to attend college. A course of study, proximity to home, costs and goals represent just some of the things students and parents think about before a teenager chooses to go to college or not.
Three major factors contribute the most to a student's decision to attend college, notes professional education consultant Ben Feuer. The consultant believes teenagers should consider grades, the ability to pay and goals in that order of priority.
Students need to take into account their grades before they choose to attend college because some programs are much more selective than others. Someone with a 3.50 grade-point average may get in over someone with a 2.50 GPA. Standardized tests such as the American College Test also impact whether or not a student gets merit-based scholarships on top of admittance to college.
Even students whose grades are not the best can still get a higher education. Instead of applying to a four-year university course, students with lower grades may have to start at a community college and work up to a more prominent institution. With so many options, including online courses, attending college is more attainable than in the past.
College is expensive, especially with tuition and books to consider. Four-year university students may also have to pay for on-campus housing and meals. Students need to determine if they have the ability to pay, which is where financial aid comes into play. The federal government has loan and grant programs that help defray the costs of college. If a student cannot afford to go to school full time, he should consider college part time while he works. Institutions also award scholarships based on several criteria.
Goals denote important aspects of whether or not someone wants to attend college. The overall goal is to graduate with a degree to get a higher-paying job later in life. With part-time attendees, time may not be such a factor when a student has several years to complete a degree program. Students and parents should determine how soon the attendee wants to graduate.
A college education means a student sticks with a long-term goal, which is something companies look for in an employee. Degrees demonstrate someone has the knowledge to understand essential aspects of a particular position, and business owners and executives look for dedicated workers who have an interest in their line of work. Getting a college degree still matters, even though some startup gurus and tech company wizards chose not to attend college to move directly into the business world.
The choice to attend college should not be made lightly. Students and parents can ask relevant questions to decide if college is right for them or if the job market comes calling right after high school.
Photo courtesy of imagerymajestic at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Become a member to take advantage of more features, like commenting and voting.
Register or sign in today!