The value of education is a monetary as well as a philosophical topic. Minors are required by law to attend school until they reach the age of 16 or 18, depending on where they live. So, theoretically, after a learner graduates from high school, the academic requirement ends.

Many students, however, will choose to continue their studies in a higher education school. They make the decision to attend college. This is a rite of passage, a badge of honor, or a family tradition for many. However, the reality for many is that they graduate and are unable to find work, either entirely or within the scope of their degree. So, does this imply that schooling is pointless?

What are the advantages of obtaining an education?

On the surface, an education delivers much more than a degree. Indeed, multiple studies suggest that education, regardless of degree level, leads to improved career chances and, in many cases, higher pay. So, if the degree isn’t the most important component of college, what is? Employers are beginning to appreciate that a person has multiple sides. Many of these are provided by education.

Finishing your degree indicates you persevered with it and saw it through to the end. This exhibits character as well as a degree of responsibility. Both of these are applicable to all spheres of life. Your character is defined by how you treat people, and responsibility can range from throwing out an empty coffee cup to paying rent. These are desirable characteristics in society.

If you’ve completed your degree, you’ve also learnt how to live properly and coexist with others. Most students spend a significant portion of their college years working. These employees are typically available to college students as waitstaff in a restaurant, coffee shop, or retail setting. There is no denying that these occupations are difficult, and dealing with consumers is challenging. You could say that these jobs are both humble and teach a person deeper regard for individuals who work in these fields for a living.

Another component of college life that has a significant impact on students is studying abroad. Traveling overseas and living in a nation where you are not a native speaker is an excellent learning opportunity. Seeing firsthand how other cultures live and work opens many people’s minds. Add to that the experience of having to make your travel arrangements and sorting out accommodations, and you’ve got yourself yet another great lesson.

So, what exactly is the worth of education?

We miss the wider picture if we judge the worth of education exclusively on its ability to find a job or not. Education entails far more than a piece of paper and four years.

Education is never squandered. Any opportunity to learn and improve should be celebrated and taken advantage of. Working independently, responsibly, and collaboratively is a lifelong skill. Being able to admire others for how they live or work is a skill that everyone should acquire.

Perhaps the true worth of education is not in the job earned, but in the person that emerges.