Continuing with a higher education after high school is becoming more of the norm than ever.  In the US, it is common to hear someone say they are going to college after they graduate high school.  The word ‘college’, however, means something much different depending on who you’re speaking.  In the US the terms ‘college’ and ‘university’ can almost be used interchangeably.  However, in other countries, the term college means the time spent in school that is between high school and a university.  Regardless, when speaking in terms of post high school education for the sake of this article, we will use the term ‘college.’
Earning a college degree, statistically, gives one better odds at having a successful career than those that have not earned a college degree.  This is due to the fact that earning a college degree looks much better on a resume next to someone that has not earned a college degree.  It shows that you are willing to work hard and complete your educations.  Having a college degree can also come into play once you are already employed.  As has been the theme of late, when determining who should be laid-off, looking at those employees that have a college degree will likely be the employees retained before those that do not.  There are always exceptions, but as far as playing it safe, having a college degree will never hurt. 
Another benefit of attending college is going away from home to live on your own.  No parents there to restrict your intake of junk food or monitor how much sleep you’re getting.  This is all part of learning to be responsible for yourself; this is an education in itself.   Many young adults have never been away from home for any period of time.  The first time for most is when they go away to college.  There is a huge sense of freedom and independence that comes along with this; however, it can be quite overwhelming.  Sure, you get to stay up as late as you want, but when you have to wake up for an early class, it can be very tempting to shut off the alarm and go back to sleep.  This, unfortunately, happens to many new college freshman and results in them failing and, in some cases, having to return home.
Something that has always been a problem, but is becoming a larger problem is the cost of college tuition.  You don’t want to end up with this huge loan to pay off when you graduate.  Especially, if you are going into a field that doesn’t pay that well at the beginning.  Therefore, earning good grades in high school is very important when it comes to qualifying for scholarships.  Being eligible for a scholarship can greatly reduce the amount you will be responsible for, if not pay for it completely. There are also scholarships available for student athletes.  These can provide you with the opportunity to continue playing sports while getting you tuition partially if not completely paid for by the school.  This can put you in a fabulous position financially when you are ready to begin your career.