Many articles have reported that a student with a college degree enjoys higher employment rates and lifetime earnings higher than their peers who do not have a diploma. Another study estimates that the average lifetime income of a 2009 college graduate was $1.2 million, even after paying tuition, compared to $780,000 for a high school graduate. Although statistics clearly reveal that college is an investment worth making, there are opposing factors such as student debt, which often leaves a student hesitant to attend college. Over the past decade, student debt in the United States has increased exponentially. According to an article in “The Economist”, between 2004 and 2014, student debt tripled, exceeding $1.2 trillion. The average student debtor will owe about $27,000 by the time they leave college. Students are faced with a dilemma: choosing which is more beneficial and profitable: attending a university with high tuition fees, or going straight into the job market without obtaining a degree. Philip Oreopoulus, professor of economics at the University of Toronto, says: “The cost-benefit calculus faced by prospective students can make the decision to invest and attend university dauntingly complex. » Students come across success stories of dropout entrepreneurs, such as Bill Gates and Steve Jobs, or rumors that high-paying jobs that don't require a degree might influence them not to go to college . Nonetheless, college is a worthwhile investment for both financial and non-financial reasons. Going to college will provide a financial benefit, non-monetary benefits, and provide opportunities such as an internship to enhance experiences. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original Essay The main reason to go to college is that college gives a financial advantage over those who did not attend college. Statistically speaking, a 2002 census bureau estimated that the lifetime earnings of the average bachelor's degree holder were about $2.7 million, more than 75 percent higher than those of high school graduates. Another statistic based on an analysis by the Economic Policy Institute in Washington indicates that in 2013, Americans with a bachelor's degree earned about 98 percent more than those without a degree. This compares to 89% 5 years ago and 85% 10 years ago. From the data, it is possible to see that obtaining a degree gives extra money and the profits earned continually increase. That being said, the previous statistics were just an average of all degree holders; income differences also vary according to profession. For example, comparing a high school graduate and someone with a bachelor's degree in the healthcare professional field; college graduates had salaries 68% higher than those who only earned a high school diploma. In addition, holding a graduate degree or a bachelor's degree opens up a chance to continue their studies. According to Carnevale, one-third of bachelor's degree holders continue their studies to obtain an advanced degree. All graduate degree holders should expect a difference of at least twice the lifetime earnings of a high school graduate, and the gap is widening between 2,5 %,. 2018.