Getting a Degree or Minimum Wage Job?

There is a big controversy over whether or not to get a degree or go straight into the work force. We all wonder if going to college will benefit us or if it’s just as easy to work at a minimum wage paying job. Most students are worried about paying for college; once they start, they are afraid they will not be able to finish their degree. My opinion is that every person has a task in life, whether that task is being a math teacher or delivering mail. We should search for jobs that utilize our strengths and talents. Then see if you need to have a college degree to go far in the specific task.

If you don’t know what your strengths are, you should at least take basic college classes that every major requires. If you think you can’t afford it, ask other kids you know how they paid for it.  Most kids will tell you they got a job and looked into scholarships as early as freshman year.  Also, you can apply for financial aid through the government, but you have to start early on that in your senior year because federal forms require a lot of different types of information.

Average Earnings

$48,500- bachelors degree

$37,500- associates degree

$30,000- high school credentials

A person with a bachelors degree makes 62% more than a person with just their high school diploma. They also make 29% more than a person with an associates degree. If you get your master degree or a higher degree your average earnings are $59,600 (23% more than a bachelors degree).

So my advice to all high school students is to start saving money as early as your freshman year.  Start looking into doing community service and requirements for scholarships you are interested in.  Check out the wall in the counseling office and talk to Mrs. Jett, she can help tell you what you need to do.  Whether you go into the workforce, into a technical college, a two-year junior college, or a four-year university, it is important for you to have a little money saved up in case hard times hit.