12 Pros & Cons of Attending a College or University

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Learn whether college is the best step for your career goals
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Going to college can seem like the key to success, but what if you’re not sure if you actually want to go? That’s perfectly okay! Although getting a degree seems like the next logical step after high school, it's not for everyone. We’ll walk you through the pros and cons of a 4-year education and give you alternatives. We also talked to Alicia Oglesby, a professional school counselor, and Jennifer Kaifesh, the Founder of Great Expectations College Prep, to learn how to choose the right college if you do decide to go. Keep reading for more!

Pros & Cons of Going to College

College can give you networking opportunities, specialized knowledge, and the potential to earn a higher income and achieve better job security. However, it can also rack up debt if you don't have scholarships and does not guarantee you a job straight away. Furthermore, your degree may be unnecessary for the field you want to enter.

Section 1 of 6:

Pros of Going to College or University

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  1. 1
    You have the potential to earn a higher income. There is a growing gap between the income of college students and high school graduates—with college students coming out on top. [1] Additionally, people with bachelor’s degrees tend to make $630,000 to $900,000 more throughout their lifetime than high school graduates. [2]
    • In 2021, full-time workers aged 22 to 27 with only a bachelor’s degree made a median annual wage of $52,000, while full-time high school grads of the same age only made a median wage of $30,000 a year. [3]
    • Additionally, labor statistics show that having any amount of college education can decrease your risk of unemployment. [4]
    • However, the debt of college may affect these numbers. If you do decide to go, try to limit the amount of loans you take out to what you expect to make after you graduate. [5]
  2. 2
    You get tons of networking opportunities. Going to college can provide you with tons of opportunities to meet other students and professionals in your desired field. Building relationships with other people can also open doors to internships, information, and mentorships that can be incredibly important for your career development. [6]
    • Additionally, some colleges have career centers and networking events that can help you connect with other professionals and get a taste of different careers you can pursue.
    • Networking is important for professionals because success is often about being at the right place at the right time and saying the right things to the right people. [7]
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  3. 3
    You may get better job security long-term. Adults with a college degree are more likely to be employed than those who didn’t attend college. In 2021, 83% of people with a bachelor's degree or higher were employed, while that was only true for 67% of high school diploma holders. [8] Getting a degree may help you earn and keep a job over time.
    • Full-time workers with a college degree are also more likely to have jobs that offer paid vacation time, health insurance, retirement plans, and flexible work arrangements. [9]
  4. 4
    You have more career opportunities open to you. More and more employers have made a college education a requirement for employment. Additionally, companies in industries that require more education tend to hire more people. [10] Getting a college degree may open the doors to get more jobs down the line.
    • From 2024 to 2034, employment growth is projected to be concentrated in jobs where a degree is required while growth in jobs where a degree isn’t required is expected to stagnate. [11]
    • Although some job listings say you don’t need a degree to apply, one analysis shows that employers are interested in hiring more college grads, not fewer. [12]
  5. 5
    You get specialized knowledge in your chosen field. If you have a major or career path in mind, college can give you a structured environment to learn all the skills you need to succeed. Not only do you get academic programs led by experts, but you can also have the opportunity for hands-on training and exposure to the latest technologies and developments. [13]
    • If you don’t know what you want to do yet, know that’s normal! College can also expose you to tons of different fields and give you access to opportunities to learn new skills.
  6. 6
    You also get skills that can transfer to other careers. Liberal arts colleges and universities that require you to take a variety of classes often teach you skills that are beneficial in the workforce. These “soft” skills, or “people” skills, include good work ethic, oral and written communication, teamwork and collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving. [14]
    • By contrast, “hard” skills are more technical and are usually job-specific, like coding, copywriting, or data analysis.
    • While hard skills aren’t usually transferable between careers, soft skills are. Soft skills are also essential for employability, professional development, and career advancement. [15]
  7. 7
    You get to explore your interests and other perspectives. Colleges are full of activities and experiences that can help you explore your interests, discover new passions, and grow as a person. Colleges often bring together people from different backgrounds and cultures, which can provide insight into how other people live and the ideas they bring to the table. [16]
    • You might get opportunities to study abroad and get real-world experience through internships and organizations on campus.
    • College can also be a great place to meet people your age from all over the world who might become your friends for the rest of your life.
    • One review found that college students who are exposed to diversity show more critical thinking skills, intellectual engagement, and academic motivation. [17]
  8. 8
    You can have a fun, transformative college experience. Although having fun might not seem worth the cost, it can be a big motivator for students trying to discover what’s out there. College can be an exciting and transformative experience—you get to meet new people, discover your passions, and explore the fun, youthful culture that exists on college campuses. [18]
    • Many colleges and universities have fraternities or sororities to join, clubs to lead, and tons of other events that allow you to make new friends and have fun on campus.
    • When checking out colleges, take a look at their “Student Life” page to see all the different student activities, traditions, and leadership opportunities they have available.
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Section 2 of 6:

Cons of Going to College or University

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  1. 1
    You may rack up student loan debt without scholarships. The cost of college can be a huge factor when deciding whether to go or not, and unfortunately, it has continued to rise over time. The average cost of college is $38,270 per year, including books, supplies, and daily living expenses. However, this annual cost rises to $45,708 if you want to go out of state. [19]
    • However, only about 1 in 6 students pay this “sticker price.” This is partly because of an increase in scholarships and the federal Pell Grant, which gives money to low-income students. [20]
    • Research also indicates that a four-year student who enrolls at age 18 can expect to earn enough by age 34 to compensate for the costs. [21]
    • If you’re thinking about going to college, ask them or your high school counselor about the scholarship opportunities you can apply to to help reduce debt. [22]
  2. 2
    A degree doesn’t guarantee a job in your field after graduation. Even though a degree can help you get your foot in the door, you may struggle to find a job because the field is too competitive or the jobs are too scarce. [23] Studies show that recent college graduates are more likely than all other graduates to work in jobs that typically do not require a college degree. [24]
    • Although researchers aren’t sure why this is true, some studies have also pointed out that STEM majors and male college graduates are less likely to be underemployed. [25]
    • One way to avoid entering a competitive field is to use the Bureau of Labor Statistics to find the expected growth of the jobs you’re interested in over the next 10 years.
  3. 3
    A degree may be unnecessary in your field. Although college degrees are pushed by parents and educators alike, there is a huge shortage of trade jobs that don’t require degrees at all. [26] Use the Bureau of Labor Statistics to find the education requirements for the career you’re interested in. You may find that you don’t have to go to college after all.
    • Part of the reason that recent college grads are underemployed may be because the number of college graduates is greater than the number of jobs that require a college degree. [27]
  4. 4
    You may spend money on a degree you don’t use. One of the biggest fears that college students have is gaining a ton of debt in exchange for a degree they don’t end up needing. If you don’t like what you’re studying or you realize it’s not what you want to do halfway through, you can always take a year off and come back when you do know what you want to do. [28]
    • It’s important to remember that you do have to pay your loans even if you don’t finish your degree. Going back to school to pursue a different path also costs extra money.
    • If you’re ¾ of the way through your program, it may be better to finish and use your degree to get your foot in the door at other jobs.
    • You can also talk to your college advisor. They can help you look at your options and explore other careers you might be interested in. [29]
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Section 3 of 6:

Deciding if College is Worth It

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  1. 1
    See if the careers you’re interested in require a college degree. Some careers only need you to have a high school diploma or on-site training to get your foot in the door. Look up the careers you’re interested in on the Bureau of Labor Statistics and click on the “How to Become One” tab to see if you need a college degree. [30]
    • If you’re not sure what jobs you’re interested in, try writing down your top skills, what you love to do, and your personality traits (for example, if you’re an introvert, customer service might not be for you). [31]
    • Try creating a vision board to plan out what you want your future to look like and what’s important to you (think salary, where you want to live, and what you value in a job). [32]
    • You can also take a career quiz to see what career your interests and experiences align with.
  2. 2
    Weigh the cost to see if it outweighs the benefits of attending. Visit the schools you’re interested in going to and ask their advisors for their tuition and scholarship information. [33] Estimate how much you think you can get in scholarships and see if that number covers most of your tuition. If it does, it might be worth putting in an application.
    • You can also search for separate scholarships based on your interests, club affiliations, financial or familial situation, or citizenship status.
    • If you decide to apply, set a budget for college applications (the average cost is $48 per college, but some may waive fees for low-income students). [34]
    • Depending on what you study, the potential to earn more when you enter the workforce may outweigh the cost of your degree.
  3. 3
    Think about why you want to attend college. Many students enroll in college because they want to get away from home or they feel like that’s what’s expected of them. [35] If you feel like you’re only thinking about college because you think it’s what you should do and not because it’s what will put you where you want to be, it might not be the right step for you.
    • If you’re not sure, try taking a gap year after high school. During that time, explore different careers and interests to figure out what you want to do.
    • A 4-year college isn’t your only option, either. Look into jobs that a trade school, apprenticeship, or community college can help you break into.
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Section 4 of 6:

Alternatives to Traditional Colleges and Universities

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  1. 1
    Apply to a community college. Community colleges, also known as junior colleges, mainly offer two-year associate degree programs and professional certificates. Students can then transfer to a 4-year college, saving money on the first 2 years of their bachelor's, or go straight into the job market. [36]
    • Pros: They tend to be cheaper and have smaller class sizes and an easier application process than 4-year colleges. In addition, many jobs on the market only require a 2-year degree. [37]
    • Cons: They may have a lower academic quality standard and fewer extracurricular activities and student life opportunities than a 4-year institution. You also may not get as many scholarships.
  2. 2
    Go to a vocational or trade school. If you think you know what career you want to pursue, a trade school can teach you the skills for that specific occupation. Some trade school careers include cosmetology, massage therapy, culinary arts, carpentry, welding, auto mechanics, plumbing, certified nursing assistant (CNA), or electrical work. [38]
    • Pros: You get specialized skills for high in-demand jobs in a shorter timeframe than at a 4-year college. Trade schools also tend to cost less than a college education. [39]
    • Cons: You get limited exposure to subjects outside your field, and your earning potential might be lower than if you held a degree. Your credits can also be more difficult to transfer if you decide to pursue a higher degree. [40]
  3. 3
    Apply for apprenticeships. Working as an apprentice for an employer or business-union partnership can allow you to have hands-on training and classroom instruction while earning a steady paycheck. Some of the most common apprenticeships are for carpenters, electricians, pipefitters, plumbers, sheet metal workers, and elevator constructors. [41]
    • Pros: You get paid as you learn a new skill, trade, or industry. Some even offer course credits if you’re going to college on top of it.
    • Cons: Apprentices initially earn less than established employees in the same industry, and get fewer opportunities to explore other careers. [42] Some also require you to have taken specific high school courses or have prior experience. [43]
  4. 4
    Enlist in the military. Joining the military is a huge commitment, but for some, it’s worth it. Most enlistments require you to spend 4 years in active duty and 2 years in inactive duty, but some programs offer 2 to 6-year active-duty enlistments. You’ll also get opportunities to stay longer or get bonuses if you re-enlist with a high-demand skill. [44]
    • Pros: The military offers competitive pay, benefits packages, bonuses, and opportunities to travel. Each branch also gives scholarships to use to pursue a higher degree. [45]
    • Cons: A military career can be high-stress, and it can be difficult to get out of your contract if you decide it’s not for you. [46]
  5. 5
    Take a gap year. Taking a year off between high school and higher education may be a good choice if you want a break from school, more time to make money, or hands-on experience before going to college. [47] You could spend that time traveling, volunteering, getting a job, or exploring the interests you didn’t get to during high school. [48]
    • Pros: You get time to recharge and explore life outside of school. You can also make extra money and learn real-life skills like cooking, budgeting, or cleaning. [49]
    • Cons: The transition back to school might be more difficult than if you went straight to college, and you may feel behind in comparison to your peers. [50]
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Section 5 of 6:

Tips for Choosing a College or University

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  1. 1
    Try not to limit yourself to colleges that have fields you’re interested in. Although it may seem counterintuitive, try not to “rule schools out because their majors sound too ‘generic,’” Kaifesh says. “Oftentimes, those programs are the ones that allow the greatest customization.”
    • She also says that “College students change their major three times on average! So the most important factor should be whether you will be happy and challenged at a school, regardless of the major you end up with.”
  2. 2
    Get a sense of the student culture on campus. Student life on campus doesn’t make or break your future, but it can allow you to understand other perspectives and have fun. Oglesby says “This can be done through a campus visit, speaking with current students who share their interests, talking to coaches and other staff, [or] sitting in on a class.”
    • Ask your advisor or your guide questions like, “How many students live on campus?” or “What is there to do on weekends?” [51]
  3. 3
    Consider what the size and location of the college really means. “An urban campus may sound exciting with all of the opportunities available in the city, but you [may also] sacrifice quite a bit of school spirit,” Kaifesh says. “A rural campus might be beautiful and nurture a strong sense of community, but it also has fewer outlets available when you’re looking for school-year internships [and] jobs.”
    • In addition, Kaifesh says to think about whether you “want an environment in which you get to know and interact with your professors, or one that enables anonymity in large lecture halls.”
  4. 4
    Try not to let the sticker shock of tuition stop you from applying. “Many colleges offer a TON of financial aid and scholarships, so more students end up paying a fraction of the advertised cost,” Kaifesh says. “Apply to the schools that feel like a great fit for you, and then compare your options in the spring; if your dream school didn’t offer you enough money to make it a viable option, talk to them.”
    • Kaifesh says that “Schools will often match financial aid packages from other institutions to encourage you to enroll.”
    • Contact your state’s grant agency , community organizations, local businesses, or associations related to your field of interest for scholarships. [52]
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Section 6 of 6:

Editors Share Their Stories

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We asked our staff writers about their own experiences with deciding whether or not to attend a college or university. Here’s what they have to say.

  1. 1
    “College let me try everything until I found the path for me.” “In high school, I always knew that I wanted to go to college and which one I wanted to go to—I even carried around their pamphlet in my planner! Once I got there, I realized I had no idea what I actually wanted to do. With a little help from my suitemates and my college advisor, I explored every option I was slightly interested in and realized that I just loved English and history. A 4-year education gave me the opportunity to find out what I liked and what I didn’t like, while meeting life-long friends along the way.” - Staff Writer Cheyenne M.
  2. 2
    “Consider how much you enjoy school and if you'd give college your all.” “I've always loved school, so attending a 4-year university after graduating high school was a no-brainer for me. I was grateful for the opportunity, excited about the challenge, and prepared to give 100%—and that's what it takes to succeed.” - Content Manager Sophia L.
    • Her Advice: “If you're not really passionate and excited about attending college, it might not be the right path for you. In my experience, students who took the opportunity for granted and only went to college because that's what their parents wanted seemed to struggle more and feel a bit more aimless.”
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