ith today's choices in post-secondary education, many students will want to pursue an education beyond high school to help them prepare for their future careers. A college education also can make a big difference in a person=s income.
According to a January 2008 U.S. Census Bureau press release, Aworkers 18 and older with a bachelor=s degree earned an average of $56,788 in 2006, while those with a high school diploma earned $31,071.@ In addition, Aadults with advanced degrees earn four times more than those with less than a high school diploma. Workers 18 and older with a master=s degree, professional or doctoral degree earned an average of $82,320 in 2006, while those with less than a high school diploma earned $20,873." So a college education is an important part of a child's future. Preparing early is one way parents can guide their children to success.
Throughout their education, students should strive for excellence. Parents can help by encouraging the child to develop good study habits and to challenge himself or herself when choosing classes and class projects. In addition, students should get involved in school and community activities, particularly those that encourage hands-on learning and career exploration.
Parents will want to record these activities in a scrapbook or notebook, as well as awards and other items of interest so students can complete applications for scholarships and other honors and awards in the future. As students enter middle school/junior high school and high school, it is time to more seriously focus on what a student can do each year to make sure he or she is on a path to college success.
SOURCE: Lila Tooker, assistant director of admissions/Extension recruitment coordinator; Census data from http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/education/011196.html
