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| Excerpts from: Great Colleges for the Real World 3rd Edition Introduction Students attend college for many different reasons. A college educaion can offer a sense of purpose, an opportunity for growth, a chance to develop a philosophy of life, an occasion to explore interests, a time to gain an appreciation of the arts, and a window to one's weakness. Historically, it has also been about finding oneself, gaining confidence, and developing social skills; however, for the majority of today's students, it is mostly about career preparation and advancement. Students have to weigh both career and non-career considerations in their college choice. When doing this, it is important to remember that college is a huge investment of time and money, and most of us expect to see real return on any investment we make--especially when it is one of the biggest we will make in our lives. A college education can easily cost more than $125,000 in real expenses and at least that much, again, in income lost while still in school. Yet, in spite of this cost, the number of Americans attending college is increasing every year. Over 60 percent of high school grads are going to college, and projections indicate that by 2005 tha number will increase to 75 percent. Going to college is no longer a luxury. Even in today's hot labor market, competition for choice positions can be fierce and almost all good positions require at least some post-secondary training. A college degree is becoming a requirement for more and more occupations and offers a huge lifetime earings advantage. The average high school graduate earned $24,110 in 1998, compared to $44,740 for the average bachelor's degree holder. This type of earnings differential is making college a financial necessity. Over a working lifetime, the college graduate can expect to make three times what a high school graduate will make. This is why finding a college where you can be sucessful is not just important, but critical. Are you an "average" student with above-average ambition? Learn about Great Colleges for you... Order Now!
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