Do I really need to go to college?

As a graduating high school senior, you are ready for the next big step of independence in life. As you consider your options, you will also find yourself answering a barrage of questions: 

Where will you go to college?
What will you major in?
What activities will you participate in?
Is college even the right decision for you? 

The college decision is a big deal, and one that impacts your future significantly. The pressure to answer questions about a major and your future career could make you hesitant about college, but the truth is that college will bring more value to your life than simply preparing for a specific career, even if you remain undecided. What you learn goes far beyond the classroom. 

College allows you to explore career options. Colleges provide access to career services, job fairs, internships and job shadowing, and courses that allow you to explore a wide variety of careers.  

Colleges have automatic networking connections. Most graduates will land their first job through networking. College networking connections typically come through professors, classmates, clubs and organizations, and alumni spread across the country and around the world.  

Learning is worthwhile. Not only does a college education have a good return on investment as it opens up opportunities for higher-paying professional jobs, but there is also a personal reward that comes with a liberal arts education. Acquiring critical thinking skills and abstract thinking, developing interpersonal relationships, and enhancing writing skills all make you more worthwhile to your employer, but even more importantly, you gain confidence in your abilities. 

College students learn to be financially responsible. College life requires students to become independent in many ways, including financially. Many colleges offer financial literacy programs assisting students to manage student loans and other expenses such as rent, textbooks, supplies, and entertainment. This is an ideal opportunity to apply for a student credit card and learn to use it responsibly. 

Increase potential of future earnings. Along with learning to be financially responsible, college graduates are more likely to be financially stable upon graduation. Individuals with higher education typically earn more and are more employable. 

Explore the world. Most colleges provide affordable study abroad opportunities, during which time a student can spend a semester in another country and experience a new culture. Many employers want their employees to have international experience. 

Find out if Huntington University is right for you. Learn more at huntington.edu/Admissions.