What's the big deal about college?

Going to college after you've just spent 12 or 13 years to get your diploma may be the last thing you want to hear about. But college increases your earning power and your ability to enjoy a better life.

With a bachelor's degree you can make about $16,300 a year more than your friends with just a high school diploma. Do the math: $16,300 times a 40-year career is more than half a million dollars ($652,000 to be exact)! Even if you don't like math, you have to love that!

All the excuses why you shouldn't go

My grades aren't good enough. Colleges don't just look at grades and test scores when making admission decisions. Extracurricular activities and community service can also play a part in their decision.

I don't know what I want to do with my life. If you go to college, you'll have to take courses in different areas as general requirements. You might find out what you want to do with your life when you're taking those classes.

I can't afford it. There are all kinds of financial aid programs to help you out. Besides, after finding at how much more an education can pay you over a lifetime, how can you NOT afford it?