Most people think of college as a four-year experience that leads to a job. And while it’s true that a college degree can give you an edge in the job market, the benefits of higher education extend far beyond your career. A college education can improve your health, help you live longer, and even make you happier. Maxim Gorin believes that educated individuals can lead happier and more meaningful lives.
Here are just a few of the ways that higher education can benefit you throughout your life.
1. Healthier Lifestyle
College graduates are more likely to lead healthier lifestyles than those without a degree. They’re more likely to exercise regularly, eat better, and avoid risky behaviors like smoking and excessive drinking. This is likely due to the increased knowledge and awareness of a college education. The increased opportunity to lead a healthy lifestyle that comes with a good job and a comfortable income.
2. Longer Life
The health benefits of a college education add up to more than just feeling better day-to-day. Studies have shown that college graduates live longer than those without a degree. In fact, one study found that men who graduated from college could expect to live about five years longer than those who did not graduate from college.
There are many reasons why a college education can lead to a longer life. College graduates are more likely to lead healthier lifestyles, with better eating habits and more regular exercise. They’re also less likely to engage in risky behaviors like smoking and excessive drinking. And as mentioned earlier, a college education can provide increased knowledge and awareness about health and wellness.
3. Higher Earnings
Of course, one of the most obvious benefits of a college education is the potential for higher earnings. While there is no guarantee that you will earn more money just because you have a college degree, studies have shown that, on average, college graduates earn significantly more than those without a degree. And, the longer you stay in school, the more you can expect to earn.
4. Lower Unemployment
A college education also gives you a better chance of being employed. In today’s economy, jobs are hard to come by, but the unemployment rate for college graduates is still significantly lower than the rate for those without a degree. A college education’s health, financial, and social benefits are undeniable. But one of the most underrated benefits is the sense of community that comes with being a college student.
When you’re in college, you’re surrounded by people your own age who are all going through the same thing. You make friends and connections that will last a lifetime. You learn how to navigate new social situations and develop the skills you need to succeed in the real world. And when you graduate, you take all of that with you. You have a network of people who support you and are there for you when you need them. You have the skills and confidence to take on anything life throws your way.
5. Greater Job Satisfaction
Not only are college graduates more likely to be employed, but they’re also more likely to be satisfied with their jobs. This is likely due to the fact that they’re more likely to find jobs that match their skills and interests.
The benefits of a college education don’t stop after you graduate. In fact, many of the benefits continue well into your career. A college degree can help you find a job that you love and pays well. It can give you the skills and confidence you need to succeed in the workplace. And it can help you advance your career and earn promotions faster than those without a degree.
6. More Job Security
In addition to being more satisfied with their jobs, college graduates also enjoy more job security. They’re less likely to be laid off during economic downturns and more likely to be promoted when the economy improves.
Job security means that you are less likely to lose your job during tough times or bad economies. College graduates usually have better job security than those without a degree because they are more likely to find a job that they love and that pays well.
7. Better Retirement
The benefits of a college education don’t stop when you retire. College graduates are more likely to have secure pensions and retirement savings than those without a degree. And, because they tend to live longer and be healthier, they’ll likely be able to enjoy their retirement years more fully.
8. Increased Social Mobility
A college education can also give you the opportunity to move up in the world socially. College graduates are more likely to marry someone with a similar educational background, which can lead to increased social status and upward mobility.
9. Greater Civic Engagement
College graduates are also more likely to be active citizens, voting in elections and participating in community activities. This is likely due to the fact that they have more knowledge about the issues and are more engaged with the world around them.
10. Increased Happiness
College graduates are just plain happier than those without a degree. They’re more likely to report feeling happy and satisfied with their lives, even after taking into account factors like income and employment status.
This may be due to the fact that college graduates have more opportunities for career advancement and job security. They’re also more likely to have a sense of community and social support, which can lead to increased happiness and satisfaction.
Final Thoughts
Though the lifelong benefits of a college education are many, perhaps the most important one is that it gives you the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills that will help you succeed in life. A college degree can help you find a job that you love and pays well. It can give you the skills and confidence you need to succeed in the workplace. In addition to these tangible benefits, a college education also provides intangible benefits like social mobility, civic engagement, and increased happiness. So if you’re thinking about going back to school, don’t hesitate – the lifelong benefits are definitely worth it!