When I weed, I need some mental diversion. I started my weeding marathon on Saturday, and was listening to WGN 720 AM Radio as I worked. Just before noon, the Paul Harvey Report came on. One of the last segments caught my attention. I’ve copied the facts down to hand to any of my young relatives who might have doubts about going to college.
\nIf you do not graduate from high school, you are likely to earn an average of $18,826 per year.
\nIf you graduate from high school, that figure jumps to $27,280.
\nIf you go to college and earn a B.A. you will earn an average of $51,194.
\nIf you earn an advanced degree, you are likely to earn an average of $72,824.
\nI’d say those statistics are pretty compelling when it comes to deciding what you want to do with your life. GO TO SCHOOL! Get an education, if only to raise your earning potential. I can think of a lot of other reasons for getting an education, but being able to make a decent living isn’t all that bad.
\nThe current Federal poverty line for a family of four is $18,850. If you happen to live in San Francisco, you’d have to hold down more than THREE minimum wage jobs to meet the minimum standard of living for a single parent with a toddler and a preschooler: $69, 241. Not all places have as high a cost of living as San Francisco, but the point is, without at least a high school education, you are guaranteed to be living at poverty level.
\nSo, talk up education. If finances are tight, use the Internet to find sources of grants and funding. There are an amazing number of grants out there waiting for the student with the right interests. Surf….you’ll see. And meanwhile… tell the kids to hit the books!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
When I weed, I need some mental diversion. I started my weeding marathon on Saturday, and was listening to WGN 720 AM Radio as I worked. Just before noon, the Paul Harvey Report came on. One of the last segments … Continue reading