Importance of College Education

Students begin questioning the importance of a college education from high school itself. Some feel that being able to earn immediately after school is a more attractive proposition and they convince themselves that a college education is not that imperative in the long run. Others may find the costs of a higher education prohibitive and have other responsibilities to take care of. But, more than ever, students need to understand that attending a college provides opportunities and advantages that others might find lacking later on in life. Today, the global economy is becoming more and more competitive and in order to improve the chances for a well-paying job, a college education is extremely important.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, 90 percent of the fastest-growing jobs of the future will require some post-secondary education or training.

College graduates also earn nearly twice as much as high school diploma holders. The U.S. economy has shifted from being a manufacturing-based one to knowledge-based. Unlike with past generations, high school graduates are unable to qualify for the high-paying jobs that are now available. A college education undeniably serves as a gateway to better options and more opportunities.

There are a number of other reasons as to why it is important to go to college. Attending lectures from experts in the field, reading and researching encourages students to think, to ask questions and to explore new ideas. All this adds to student's development and growth and provides college graduates with an edge over those who have only graduated from high school. College life also provides one with valuable connections and resources adding to the number of options available after completing graduation.

Long after college is over, the people you have met may prove useful.

The variety of courses and programs available can be as specific or generalized as you require. From the arts and the humanities to pure science, business management to information technology, health care to graphic arts - the list is endless. Depending on one's interests and aptitudes, a number of exciting career options are possible.

A college education is the best possible way to insure a higher earning power after graduation. There are a number of different majors to choose from, all paying differently but on the whole, a college graduate will earn more money than those who do not have a college education or degree. Companies are also looking for well-rounded employees. Those that can hold a conversation with confidence and a college degree signifies the level of discipline, effort and intelligence that most employers look for.

In fact, in keeping up with the increase in demand by mature students, colleges are offering more options for students who wish to return to their education even after they have entered the work force. People now realize that it is never too late to increase your earning potential or improve your chances of being promoted by seeking a higher education. Whether its people taking a break from their jobs or switching careers and resuming their education or those adults who are returning to complete an education that was left unfinished the first time around, schools now offer special online and accelerated courses as well. This allows even more options for those students who are juggling careers, family, and their education.

There is no doubt that colleges and universities today carry a heavy price tag along with them, but this should not discourage anyone from obtaining a college education. As the cost of tuition increases, so do the financial aid options. These could include local, corporate, federal and college specific loans, funds, and grants. Potential students need to explore all avenues of assistance before planning for degree program.

The truth of the matter is that there are no disadvantages to graduating with a college degree program. Along with increasing one's earning potential and promotion potential, the most important improvement occurs with one's self-image. A college education gives one a sense of accomplishment and confidence that may be just what is needed in your professional and personal life.

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CommonWealth One Supports Financial Education with the FDIC, NCUA and Department of Education

Washington, DC-MD-VA-WV - CommonWealth One Federal Credit Union assisted in coordinating a press conference where an agreement was signed by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Chairman Sheila C. Bair, and National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) Chairman Debbie Matz on November 15, 2010 to promote financial education and savings programs to millions of students.

This new agreement will help millions of students achieve financial success and will have an impact for those in need. To facilitate financial success for students, a network of agencies will work hand in hand to promote partnerships among schools, financial institutions and other stakeholders. Their goal is to increase access to safe and affordable accounts at federally insured banks and credit unions and ultimately encourage personal savings.

During the event, CommonWealth One Federal Credit Union was recognized and commended for their commitment to financial education at the local school level.

John Blair, CEO of CommonWealth One, William Euille, Mayor of the City of Alexandria, Fay Slotnick, Executive Director of the Parent Leadership Training Institute, and Suzanne Maxey, Principal T.C. Williams High School, signed a pledge solidifying their commitment to encourage alliances that support financial education within the community.

According to research conducted by the FDIC and the National Financial Capability Study, studies indicate that on average younger adults are less likely to have access to an account at a federally insured bank or credit union, more likely incur sizeable fees, struggle with personal finance and overestimate their own financial decision making. However, other research from the Washington University in St. Louis indicates that when students start saving for college at a younger age that they are more likely to attend college, thus enhancing their own financial future.

CommonWealth One places critical importance on helping their members achieve financial independence and improve their standard of living through its products, services, commitment to financial education and community involvement. By promoting financial education and literacy to its members, CommonWealth One ensures that its members can make strong financial choices throughout their life.

About CommonWealth One Federal Credit Union
Since 1944, CommonWealth One Federal Credit Union has grown to become one of Northern Virginia's top credit unions with more than 2 million in assets serving more than 38,316 members. CommonWealth One is a full-service, member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative committed to being the lifetime financial institution of its members. For information on our history, upcoming events, and more visit www.cofcu.org.

CommonWealth One's Headquarters is located at 4875 Eisenhower Avenue in Alexandria, Virginia. We encourage you to join us at CommonWealth One Federal Credit Union and become a member and experience the difference of banking with a credit union! If you live, work or worship in Washington, DC or select areas of Virginia, you may be eligible to join the credit union with only a deposit into a share account. CommonWealth One Federal Credit Union is Washington DC's credit union of choice, serving members in Washington DC, Northern Virginia, Front Royal and Harrisonburg.

CommonWealth One Federal Credit Union offers Checking Accounts, Mortgages, Home Loans, Auto Loans, Savings Accounts, Money Market accounts, IRAs and more in Washington, DC or Virginia. We have remained true to our philosophy of "people helping people" - providing members with loans, savings plans, and special services to achieve their long-term financial goals and help them enjoy a better way of life. Our excess earnings are returned to our members in the form of higher dividend rates, lower interest rates on loans and low or no fees.

Please visit us online at www.cofcu.org for more information.

Source:
http://www.1888pressrelease.com/commonwealth-one-supports-financial-education-with-the-fdic-pr-258046.html