Argumentative Essay: The Purpose Of Higher Education

“Higher education offers graduates more jobs to choose from than are open to those who don't pursue education beyond high school, and graduates typically earn more than non-graduates” (Allen). Education is defined as an enlightening experience. High school provides basic knowledge, and colleges provide knowledge to better ourselves for future interest. Granted, college is not for everyone, but I am determined to pursue a higher education for myself and my future family.

“Harvard is the oldest institution of higher education in the United States, established in 1636 by vote of the Great and General Court of the Massachusetts Bay Colony” (Harvard University). The purpose of higher education has been debated over numerous times. In my opinion,

the main purpose is to prepare our minds for the future. We as individuals have the option to create a better life for ourselves, and college seems to be the better way to do so. If one puts his mind into what he is doing, he will have a better chance of achieving the goal that he has set forth. Some may say that college is a waste of time, but it is only a waste of time when the individual is not determined to make his time worthwhile while working towards getting a degree. College has many positive factors that contribute to future occupations. I will pursue a higher education due to the numerous facets that are obtained upon graduating college. “People with a college degree make around $1,100 a week. Someone with a high school diploma makes just $638” (GreatSchools staff). In college, I plan on making new friends along with many other connections that will be helpful to me in the future. These connections could very well help me throughout my life.
“Studies have shown that college graduates are healthier and are less likely to get divorced” (GreatSchools staff).

Many marriages that involve the limited high school diploma seem to be financially struggling for the majority of their lives. Without a college degree, marriage may then begin to seem harder. Therefore, the stress-free life of pursing a well-paid career could possibley save a life-long relationship. If you go to college, your children are likely to attend college as well. “71 percent of students with at least one parent who has a bachelor’s degree apply to college themselves. Only 26 percent of first-generation students (those with no parent who went beyond high school) apply to college.” (GreatSchools staff). Parents automatically desire the greatest life for their child. Furthermore, what could be better than your child attending college and providing a bright future for themselves? I desire a family that does not struggle with payments or debt. Although some individuals are able to accomplish this without a degree, I would rather be safe than sorry. Not many college graduates are unsuccessful in life, and I plan to be among the many successful. When considering why I should go to college, I like to imagine my life in 20 years. Where do I want to be in the future? What career do I wish to be involved in? I feel as if attending college will allow me to answer these questions and develop a plan for accomplishing my goals. Although my career may not consist of

what I hope it currently does, I will forever contain my college degree to stand behind for other opportunities that may arise.
Higher education is worth pursuing regardless of your occupational goals. A college degree can widely expand your options while a regular high school diploma cannot. Various employers see a degree as proof of a trustworthy, responsible person. Therefore, making it more likely for the job to be offered to the one that graduated from college. Graduating college can put a person in a positive state of mind when it comes to life itself. Furthermore, college provides a vast majority of opportunities for ones future, and I plan to accomplish my goals by beginning with a higher education.