Why College is a Good Idea —Education After High School...
- Can take you out of a minimum-wage job and into good-paying work you enjoy.
- On average, you will earn $7,500 to $16,700 more each year than those without a college degree.
- Provides more job security—you will be two to three times more likely to have a job.
- Can lead to more meaningful, interesting work and choices in your career.
- Gives you lots of opportunities. You will meet new people, develop talents and learn about other cultures.
- Trains you to express thoughts clearly in speech and in writing, to make informed decisions and to apply useful skills on and off the job.
Check out the Salary Comparisons!
| Type Work | Requires an Associate or a Bachelor?s Degree | Hourly Wage | Requires High School Diploma or Moderate On-the-Job Experience | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Banking | Accountant | $21.05 | Bank Teller | $9.07 |
| IT/Computers | Computer Programmer | $25.91 | Data Entry Keyers | $10.10 |
| Architecture Vs. Landscaping | Architect | $24.80 | Landscaping & Groundskeeping Worker | $8.82 |
| Animal Sciences | Zoologist & Wildlife Biologist | $21.85 | Veterinary Assistant | $8.23 |
| Forensic Science Vs. Security Guard | Forensic Science Technician | $17.88 | Security Guard | $9.89 |
| Filmmaking | Film & Video Editor | $16.24 | Camera Operator | $10.99 |
| Pharmacy | Pharmacist | $32.81 | Pharmacy Technician | $9.80 |
| Physical Therapy | Physical Therapist | $27.89 | Physical Therapist Aide | $9.21 |
| Education Vs. Child Care | Education, Training & Library Occupation | $15.00 | Child Care Worker | $6.90 |
| Nursing Field | Registered Nurse | $20.49 | Nursing Aide | $8.13 |
You can find great information about careers at www.OKcollegestart.org and in the Occupational Outlook Handbook at www.bls.gov/oco.
Getting a college education requires a lot of time, effort and careful planning, so if you haven’t started…it’s time. Preparing for college helps you get prepared academically, financially and socially. It also makes you think about what you want out of life and the best way to get there. You’ll leave college with knowledge and skills you can use the rest of your life.
- 8th–10th Graders:
- College will be here before you know it, and the best time to start planning is now. This guide will help you and your family as you plan for life beyond high school. So take a few minutes and read through this site. Then talk to your family and counselor about your plan for college.
- 11th—12th Graders:
- “So, what are you doing after graduation?” Many juniors and seniors get bored answering that question over and over. But whether you do or don’t think college is right for you, this site will provide you with some things to think about.
Wondering if your possible career will make you happy or if the career you choose will satisfy your lifestyle? Check out the happiness index and take the financial quiz.
For more information about preparing for college, visit www.OKcollegestart.org, call the Student Information Hotline at 800.858.1840 (225.9239 in Oklahoma City) or e-mail studentinfo@osrhe.edu.