What Does a High School Diploma Do for a Student? 7 Benefits to Consider
Have you ever questioned the real impact a high school diploma will have on your life? Here are seven benefits of receiving a high school diploma.
Are there any real benefits to having a degree? Yes, even though each of us has unique talents and aspirations, a good education gives us access to a lot of opportunities. Getting your high school diploma can improve your life in addition to giving you the chance to be qualified for more jobs.
Take a look at 7 reasons you should consider earning your high school diploma.
Better Career Opportunities
This is frequently the main motivation for getting a high school diploma. For the rest of your life, it could be the basis. Earning a high school diploma gives you an advantage over earning an HSE (high school equivalency diploma).
It not only positions you to potentially go to college in the future, but it also gives you a leg up on hiring managers.
Related: What is Easier to Get, GED Or a High School Diploma?
Higher Pay
It is obvious that the more education you obtain, the better your chances are to earn more money, although the numbers may vary depending on your job. According to the Economic Policy Institute, those with a high school diploma earned about $4 more per hour than those without a high school diploma.
An HSE didn’t always significantly increase a salary, according to a different study. In order to provide a general comparison, the study’s final year (2012) shows that high school dropouts earned $21,080, while high school graduates earned $28,309 and college graduates made $50,734.
It’s critical to recognize how obtaining a college degree can significantly alter one’s situation. Consider your options for going to college after receiving your high school diploma, whether you want to go to traditional classes or online.
Most Colleges Prefer a High School Diploma
Thinking about the next step for your future? Perhaps you should proceed after looking at the salary comparisons.
Even though HSE is accepted by some higher education institutions, most colleges, and universities prefer applicants to have a high school diploma. The time is always right to further your education. Consult with counselors at your local college or online school to learn more about your options.
Education Improves Your Skills
Sometimes it’s easy to forget the main benefits of high school. You’re gaining life skills and practical skills that help you succeed in the workplace and at home. A high school diploma is evidence of the effort you put into your academic studies. It’s important not to underestimate the power of your education.
Less Risk of Being Unemployed
If you want a better chance of finding employment, finish your high school diploma. The US unemployment rate was roughly 4.1 percent as of December 2017. Unemployment rates are still declining when compared to prior years.
However, depending on your education level, the unemployment rate varies significantly. According to the 2017 Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate for college graduates was only 2.5 percent, compared to 5.3 percent for a high school graduate and 7.7 percent for those who had less than a high school degree.
Allows You to Join the Military
An excellent post-graduation career path is joining the military, which provides numerous advantages like job training, health insurance, housing benefits, competitive pay, and more. The military has made it abundantly clear that it favors applicants with a high school diploma.
According to Today’s Military, “GED holders are permitted to apply, but some Services may have restrictions on their employment opportunities. Without a high school diploma or an accepted alternative credential, it is very challenging to be taken seriously as a candidate.”
Earning a High School Diploma is Easier Than It Was in the Past
You may believe it will be challenging to obtain a high school diploma for a variety of reasons. But with the ability to attend online high school – without ever leaving your home, it’s more convenient than ever and can pave the way to a better future.
Lifelong Skills
You can learn more in high school than just the material covered on the test! You will gain practical skills in addition to learning the fundamentals of science, math, history, and English.
Through preparing for exams and studying, you can build skills like time management, critical thinking skills, and problem-solving skills that can make a difference when you move on to college or start building your career.
Conclusion: a High School Diploma
Whichever of these six factors matters to you the most, obtaining a high school diploma can have a profound impact on your life both now and in the future.
A high school diploma can open the door to new career opportunities, college and technical school opportunities, and the chance to make more money while pursuing a profession you are truly passionate about.
FAQs
Is a High School Diploma Enough for America’s Workforce?
Meanwhile, about half said their high school education has provided the skills they need to get a good job right after they graduate. And 45% say a high school diploma is a good preparation for future successful workers.
Do People Grow Out of High School?
Nearly 30 percent of young adults have left school but have no more than a high school diploma. Whether or not these young people are currently employed (and the majority are), they are almost certain to have a future of low-paying work unless they return to school or acquire new skills.