For as long as you can remember, the importance of higher education has been drilled into your head by parents, teachers and people who seemed to know better. Now, with the rising costs of everything, it’s no wonder that college students everywhere are wondering if it’s all worth it.
According to a study by Forbes, about 60% of students graduate with debt averaging over $20,000. With an average starting salary of about $30,000, many recent graduates are finding it very difficult to juggle living expenses in addition to making payments on their college loans. In this economic climate, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find the lucrative jobs that were supposed to come hand in hand with a degree. The double-edged sword? Many desirable companies only hire those candidates with prior work experience, work experience that you didn’t have the time to accumulate because you were in school. Looking to attend graduate school? The outlook may seem even bleaker.
Though college students generally earn more in a lifetime than those who do not pursue higher education, a degree alone will not ensure success. Making the most out of your education by networking in your field of choice and being open to all opportunities are essential to increasing your marketability to employers. Consider taking elective courses outside of your major and joining extracurricular activities that require strong leadership skills or minor in a second language.    The more impressive your accomplishments, the better chances you will have at setting yourself apart from other job applicants.
