It’s time to go back to school and students are gearing up for making many significant decisions that will impact the rest of their lives. While many high school students are planning for a college education and deciding what state university to attend, some college students are weighing their options for higher education vs. joining the workforce.

After a rigorous 4-year streak in college, students are overwhelmed with the thought of committing to another 2 or 3 years of obtaining another degree. Others are facing mounting financial obligations and cannot foresee the dollars to enhance their education.  So, many begin looking towards getting a job, whether it be a lower paying job than they deserve or opted for, or a job that is unrelated to their individual fields.

This population of graduates must be aware of that the number of employers seeking higher educated candidates is increasingly rising.  Graduates with Masters Degrees and PhD’s are becoming front line contenders for high paying and challenging jobs in diverse marketplaces.  Higher education plays a vital role in furthering a career, no matter what profession he or she plans to pursue.

Employers want to know how you are unique from your competition. By pursuing an advanced degree, you already have the upper hand over your competitors. If you have spent your time and money studying, it shows you have a vested interest in your future and in your career; it shows you deep commitment to yourself and your field and it turn, to the company that is potentially going to hire you.

The financial benefits of higher education are only of many to mention. Statistics show that people with higher education make as much as $200,000 more over a lifetime than those with lesser education. Many employers use your level of education to determine the salary that you will receive when you are hired. Most often, promotions, and pay raises are tied to the completion of courses and programs specifically designed for career advancement. College and university graduates are also more likely to have access to better healthcare and dental benefits that come with more established careers.

Another thing that people often forget is that college or university allows you to experience a rich social and cultural scene, and meet all kinds of different people while pursuing a field you love. It will also allow you to see different places, and for many people it is their first chance to live on your own.

A constant flow of retaining information also allows you to improve your reading, writing, and math skills that will help you with all aspects of your life. Improving these basic skills can help you better manage your finances, boost your ability to do multiple aspects of any job or responsibility, and ensure you with confidence in your everyday activities. It also allows you to study in a field that interests you and to follow an area of study that you are passionate about. Pursuing things that you are passionate about and gaining confidence with an education will help you lead a healthy and fulfilling life.