4 Things You Should Know Before Deciding on College

Attending college was once reserved for a smaller subset of society who had the luxury of time and the finances to pay for it. Today, as an increasing number of students graduate from institutions of higher learning in crippling debt, sometimes for decades, they’re left wondering if attending college is worth it.
Over the last decade, more students are learning that there are abundant opportunities within reach of anyone who want them — and we’re not talking about prestigious corporate careers or doctoral degrees. A huge range of industries – ranging from technology to industrial to healthcare –  are offering jobs and higher pay to those who are skilled, certified and hard-working.

But that still leaves questions for many: How will I pay for college? Can I find a career that I’ll enjoy? Is it worth my time? Like all things, you have to weigh the benefits, the risks and the rewards. Below are some ways college could pay off for you:

1. Boost your earning potential - Did you know an associate’s degree from your local college can start you out at about $42,000 per year, reaching over $60,000 per year by mid-career? But even learning a new skill or getting a certification (some are attainable in just four weeks) can earn you 40 to 70 percent higher pay.
2. Get real, hands-on experience - A four-year university is right for some, but not others. In fact, research has shown that many students perform better and learn faster in smaller classrooms with applied training. Institutions like Del Mar College offer a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio and over 175 occupational fields leading to associate’s degrees and certificates.
3. An investment that won’t break the bank - First lesson in finance: College can be expensive, so find a school that’s going to give you a higher return on your investment. For example, tuition at Del Mar College is about one-third the cost of tuition at area universities – and several financial aid options are available. So, if this leads to a job you love and skills to last a lifetime, the math pretty much works itself out.
4. More flexible classes than ever - If full-time classes aren’t the best option for you right now, that doesn’t have to hold you back. Community colleges are working harder to make higher education within reach for all students – from evening and online courses to bus transportation – so you can find the schedule that works for you.