Gulf Coast Family's primary purpose is to encourage families along the Gulf Coast by providing worthwhile information that deals with family life right here in the Tampa Bay area.
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Which Way Do I Move?At the beginning of the Milton Bradley board game, The Game of Life, there is a choice that needs to be made. As a matter of fact, it is one of the first major decisions most people will be faced with independently from their parents in real life. Do you pursue a degree in higher education or do you head right out into the world to start a career? At this point in the game, it is a gamble you have to make based on whether you want to get your hands on some money more quickly or if you prefer to invest a little to hopefully gain more in the long run. Just like in the Game of Life, real life is full of options and choices. The choices we make will shape our future. But, in contrast to the game, where you are always heading in the right direction, no matter which fork in the road you chose, the decisions you make in real life do not always keep you pointed in the right direction and they often have a long lasting impact on your future. The decision whether or not to go to college is a decision thousands of 2008 Pinellas County high school graduates have to make this summer; however, the decision about whether or not to go to college is not nearly as difficult as it was just 15 to 20 years ago. The differences between the two choices are quite evident, and with Bright Futures scholarships, multiple campuses, online learning, specialized classes, and job placement programs, choosing to go to college is usually a very smart choice. If you are a recent high school graduate or if you are a parent of a high school graduate, here are just a few reasons why choosing to go to college is a wise decision. 1. A college degree is becoming the new high school diploma. Statistics clearly show that the number of employment opportunities is much greater for college graduates than it is for those who do not possess a college degree. Statistics also show that most of the leaders in the workforce are college graduates. 2. College graduates make more money. According to the American Census Bureau, the average full time worker with only a high school diploma makes $30,400 a year, while the average college graduate with a Bachelor's degree earns $52,200 a year. 3. Statistics show that those who have a college education will be more involved in the community, will have better value systems, will have a better lifestyle and will live healthier lives. As a result, it will be much easier for college graduates to provide for and guide their families. 4. According to psychologists, college graduates make better parents, are self-confident, are more emotionally and financially secure, and have a better understanding of human nature. As a result, college graduates are less likely to become involved in criminal activity and are typically strong advocates of freedom. 5. A college education can help you qualify for jobs in fields that interest you. It can also open the doors to other opportunities, career choices, and the opportunity to teach others. 6. You should never stop learning. Learning new things, being exposed to new ideas, being able to put new concepts together all can provide great satisfaction and can greatly help you grow as an individual. In conclusion, pursuing a college education is a wise choice not only because of the financial rewards, employment opportunities, and other social benefits, but also because it will help you continually learn new things, expand your horizons and feel better about yourself. Average Annual Earnings—Different Levels of Education.
Gulf Coast Family Publications - Encouraging families along the Gulf Coast in Pinellas County |
Available in all CVS and Chick-fil-A locations, along with shopping centers, restaurants, day care centers, schools, libraries, and almost anywhere parents are likely to congregate.     |
