Pros and cons of attending college Tyree ThomasZane State College In 2013, 19.9 million students were enrolled in colleges and universities (college, 2014). Also in 2013, the unemployment rate for college graduates over age 25 was 3.6% (College, 2014). These are both great examples of the pros and cons of attending college. However, attending college has many pros and cons. Most college graduates earn more, but student loan debt is crippling them. Going to college helps you make great connections and gain networking skills, however, you can still be just as successful without a college degree. More and more jobs require a college degree, but with a college degree you are not guaranteed a job in your field. Last but not least, going to college is an amazing experience, however, college doesn't necessarily grow my mind if you don't do it properly. So you have to ask yourself: Do you do the pros and cons yourself? One of the major disadvantages of going to college is the student loan debt you face after graduation. Between 2003 and 2012 there was an 18% increase in student loan debt for the average college graduate over the age of 25 (University, 2014). This is mainly due to the extreme increase in tuition. Over the last 24 years the enrollment rate has increased by approximately 30%. As of 2013, there are $1.2 trillion in student loans outstanding. So in my opinion, this would be one of the main reasons not to go to college, however, there is a scholarship for everything and you can get one, you just have to do the work. Then you should think about what kind of money you will earn after you finish. graduate. If you get a decent job and pay our loans on time, the interest rates will not be so bad. Now, an advantage in this con is when... middle of the card... it's the downside. Ask yourself if earning more with a college degree is worth the debt you have up to your eyes in student loans. Going to college and building all the connections and networking skills, it's worth not going to school and being just as successful and without as much debt. Lastly, college is an amazing experience, but what is it worth if you forget the main goal. So if you ask yourself these questions, you will be able to decide what you should do. At the same time, as long as you do your best, everything should work out well for you. http://college-education.procon.org Published January 14, 2014 http://www.fremont.edu/2013/07/is -college-right-for-me-the-pros-and-contros-of- college/ Updated 2014 http://www..bls.gov/oes/current/oes291171.htm Published January 8, 2014 http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/nursingassistants.htm Published January 8, 2014