College Degree Pays Off in the End

By now, you might be struggling with the job search and the endless stream of consciousness thoughts in your head. (I think I correctly remember saying, "Will I ever get a job?" on repeat). I know I wasn't alone in my thoughts so don't think you are the only one suffering through the post-college slump. It's hard to hear that things will improve, but I found research to prove that all of your hard work will indeed pay off. You will land a wonderful job and be very happy. It may take some patience and a great deal of hard work, but it's true that nothing worth having comes easy.

There are many articles and studies showing that a college degree is worth it in the end. If you're ever feeling frustrated or defeated, I recommend conducting an online search to discover extensive research into why you made a good decision. I like this recent article from the New York Times' David Leonhardt. In it, Leonhardt states that, "The evidence is overwhelming that college is a better investment for most graduates than in the past. A new study even shows that a bachelor’s degree pays off for jobs that don’t require one: secretaries, plumbers and cashiers. And, beyond money, education seems to make people happier and healthier."

Well said. While I think it can be difficult for many to stomach the thought of increasing tuition prices and a plummeting economy, please know that a degree does pay off. Consider this last piece of news: Three decades ago, full-time workers with a bachelor’s degree made 40 percent more than those with only a high-school diploma. Last year, the gap reached 83 percent. College graduates, though hardly immune from the downturn, are also far less likely to be unemployed than non-graduates. Keep your head up!

Amy Muldoon worked in corporate public relations for three years before returning to graduate school to become an English and Social Studies teacher. She is also a freelance writer for CollegeJobBank.Com. Her strengths include: drafting speeches, writing talking points for media interviews, making corporate presentations, and writing for publications. Read more of her blogs at collegejobbankblog.com. Find jobs and other information at Nexxt.