By Dr. Sue Ann T. Guy
Definition, Occurrence and Symptoms: Advantages of not having a college degree include, limiting education-related costs, maximize professional experience and allows professionals to explore different career options.1 However, advantages for holding a college degree include, creation of networking opportunities, helps market candidates to employers, and college graduates can live and work almost anywhere. 63% of American youth leave school without earning a college degree.2 Still,100% of recruiters believe candidates with a college degree have more skills than those without a college degree.3 Senior recruiter at AWS, Allan Henshaw, stated, ”People who don’t have a degree know how to do things, but don’t understand why decisions are made.”
Employment skills are also ever-changing with the help of constantly-evolving technologies and dynamic employment demands. Shelby Owens, a career coach at Right Management, stated, “Unless employees continue to update the competencies their employers need, their job security will be compromised.”3 While 95% of students polled are seeking additional credentials to stay in-demand, 50% of students agree additional credentials help reach career goals. While a number of graduates retained employment after graduation, some graduates became discouraged and disappointed after entering the workforce due to needing additional credentials and skills, administrative job requirements or lower-then-expected salaries.4 Graduates hold unrealistic salary expectations due to inflated costs of living. Where college graduates work and live impacts their workplace expectations. Top skills sought by employers include teamwork, problem-solving, analytical, communication, initiative and leadership skills.5 College graduates still earn almost $15,000 more than non-college graduates in entry-level jobs.6
Coping Strategies: Individuals who are struggling with the decision to obtain a college degree should seek career counseling either from a high school, college or local career counselor.7 Individuals in the process of deciding to attend college should be supported and reassured during the process. Foster and communicate a work environment that supports individuals with or without college degrees.
References
1. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/college-degree-vs-no-college-degree
2. https://hrexecutive.com/requiring-college-degrees-a-sign-of-a-lazy-employer/
3. https://www.ellucian.com/blog/do-employers-still-value-college-degrees
5. https://www.monster.com/career-advice/article/5-skills-employers-want-in-new-grads-and-arent-finding
6. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/pay-salary/average-salary-with-college-degree-vs-without
