Is a college education necessary for success in life?

Is a College Education Necessary for Success in Life? Student’s Name Institution Abstract This paper examines pieces of literature to answer the question, "Is a college education necessary for success in life?" This debate has failed to yield a conclusive answer with proponents and opponents providing almost equally valid arguments in favor of their positions. Proponents of college education contend that it provides one with essential knowledge and skills, opportunities, resources, and credentials that support success in life. On the other, opponents argue that the high costs involved, the presence of several alternative career paths, and the success stories of entrepreneurs without college education make it unnecessary for success in life. Examination of evidence indicates that a college education is necessary for one to succeed in life. Keywords: college education, alternative career paths Is a College Education Necessary for Success in Life? Whether or not college is necessary for success in life is an age-old debate that has often failed to yield a conclusive answer. Arguments in favor are based on the idea that through college education, a person gains valuable skills and knowledge that propel them to personal and career growth. Raine (2023) shows that one's level of education determines their financial well-being. On the other hand, those arguing against college education contend that without a college education, one not only avoids the high cost involved but can also thrive in several alternative career paths. Although a college education may seem obviously necessary for success in life, its opponents present concrete arguments in favor of their stance. Literature Review Literature shows that a college education is related with one's financial well-being. The supporters of college education hold that it equips people with knowledge and skills that lay the foundation for financial success in life. As revealed by Raine (2023), “the higher one's level of education, the better one's financial wellbeing" (par. 3). Statistics show that individuals with less than high school education are poorest when it comes to financial well-being while those with Master's Degree and higher have the best financial health (See Appendix). Through the knowledge and skills gained from a college education, one is placed on a better success path. Literature has also revealed that college education also allows one to access valuable networking opportunities that contribute to success in life. Networking is characterized by creating and maintaining relationships for future mutual benefits. According to Bonds-Raacke et al. (2017), networking helps a person exchange resources with other people, which can be valuable in one’s educational and career journey. The presence of valuable resources in colleges is also highlighted in the literature as a key factor for success in life. According to Lumen Learning (n.d.), the resources necessary to help students reach their "educational and career goals are plentiful on most campuses” (par. 1). Colleges have in place programs that facilitate advising students on various career matters. In addition, through the library and research facilities present in the college setting, students have access to unlimited books and studies that e...