Is a College Education Worth Its Price in the Job Market?

Going to college is closely linked to the American dream of achieving success. America's youth are programmed from day one that this is the first step, after high school, to attaining future goals.

However, is it true? Is a college education worth its price in the job market? There are two sides to this coin.

I've been a recruiter for over a decade. I've recruited for small start-ups and Fortune 500 companies alike. Following are some observations from this experience.A College Education: Some Issues to Consider

Getting Your Foot in the Door: A college education gets your foot in the door many times; it is your ticket into the stadium, so to speak. Many times I've recruited for a job in which the responsibilities were so-called menial.

I'd look at the job description and go, a smart high-school student could do this job. BUT, the employer wanted someone with a four-year degree. They wouldn't even consider applicants without a degree.

This happens more often than you could possibly imagine. I think it's a case of companies have their reputation to uphold. They can say that 82% of our employees hold a four-year degree, with another 23% holding a graduate degree or higher.

So, to level the playing field, get that degree!

Consider this: According to the website, back2college.com, "Statistics project that 75 percent of future positions are expected to require at least some type of certification or licensure, and professions that require a bachelor's degree are projected to grow nearly twice as fast as the national average, making a college degree a good investment."

You Don't Belong in College: College is not for everyone; that's just a fact. If a formal education really isn't your forte, then by all means, don't pursue it.

BUT, give some serious thought as to where you're trying to go. I think those who choose to forego college should figure out a "life plan" sooner than those who do attend college. Why?

College graduates have their degree to fall back on, so to speak. It doesn't guarantee success, but again, a lot of doors will open for them automatically that a person who doesn't hold a degree won't be able to enter.