Can college promise jobs?

     There comes a time in every student's life when he must make a big decision--what his plans are after high school. Ask any senior at Maine South these days; I'll give you odds of five-to-one that he says he's going to college. College is the big trend that has swept the nation for a few years now. It's considered the norm to go to college these days; in fact,people will stare at you if you say you're not going to college.
     But lately, many students are realizing that there is life without college. Let's face it: not everyone is cut out for college. While some enjoy the well-structured process, others abhor the idea of being in school any longer. But because of constant pressure from parents, teachers, the media and their peer group, they end up in college anyway.
     Many families sacrifice their comforts in order to put a student through school. Since the average cost of tuition these days can be anywhere between $3000 and $5000, isn't it a shame to waste that money on someone who would rather be out working?
     Though a college education increases your chance for a better job and a higher salary, it's still not a guarantee to those things. There are many college graduates with Ph.D. who are driving buses or working at Walgreen's. Many students go into college with the feeling that they will be assured a job. And they are only disillusioned when, after four years of studying and discipline, they are hopelessly unemployed.
     But college is a help in the competitive job market. Since the 1950s the number of people receiving bachelor's degrees has increased by 91 percent. This signifies the great amount of workers vying for jobs. Unemployment among college graduates is also lower than among those with only high school diplomas.
     According to studies conducted by the National Institute of Education in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, future employers still tend to be impressed by degrees. A degree makes a person seem more efficient, persistent, and task-oriented.
     Female college graduates between the ages of 25 and 29 still earn more than high school graduates of the same age. A college education does have many benefits, but not in all cases.
     The important thing is to make the decision that is right for you.