Introduction
For many young people, high school can feel like an endless slog of classes, homework, and tests. It can be hard to see the point of it all, especially when you’re bombarded with messages that you need to go to college to be successful. But the truth is, graduating from high school is one of the most important things you can do for your future. Here are just a few reasons why:
1. Higher Earning Potential
One of the biggest benefits of graduating from high school is that it can lead to higher earnings. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, workers with a high school diploma earn an average of $5,000 more per year than those who only have a GED. And that gap only widens over time. By the time you reach your mid-30s, workers with a high school diploma will have earned an average of $30,000 more than those with only a GED.
2. More Job Opportunities
A high school diploma also opens up more job opportunities. Many employers require at least a high school diploma for entry-level positions, even in fields that don’t require a college degree. Without a high school diploma, you’ll be limited to a much narrower range of job opportunities, and you’ll be more likely to end up in low-paying jobs.
3. Better Health Outcomes
Graduating from high school has been linked to better health outcomes. People with a high school diploma are more likely to be healthy and have a longer life expectancy than those who only have a GED. They are also less likely to smoke, drink alcohol, or use drugs.
4. Increased Civic Participation
Graduating from high school also makes you more likely to participate in civic life. People with a high school diploma are more likely to vote, volunteer, and be involved in their communities. They are also more likely to be aware of current events and have the skills to make informed decisions about important issues.
5. Personal Growth and Development
High school is not just about learning facts and figures. It is also about developing important life skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication. These skills will help you succeed in college, in your career, and in your personal life.
Conclusion
Graduating from high school is not always easy, but it is worth it. A high school diploma opens up more opportunities, leads to higher earnings, and helps you develop important life skills. If you are thinking about dropping out of high school, please reconsider. You have a lot to gain by staying in school and graduating.
Tables
| Education Level | Median Weekly Earnings | Percent of Population |
|---|---|---|
| Less than high school diploma | $654 | 12% |
| High school diploma or equivalent | $752 | 28% |
| Some college, no degree | $804 | 21% |
| Bachelor’s degree | $1,248 | 16% |
| Education Level | Unemployment Rate | Percent of Population |
|---|---|---|
| Less than high school diploma | 10.5% | 12% |
| High school diploma or equivalent | 6.3% | 28% |
| Some college, no degree | 5.4% | 21% |
| Bachelor’s degree | 3.5% | 16% |
| Education Level | Life Expectancy | Percent of Population |
|---|---|---|
| Less than high school diploma | 74.5 years | 12% |
| High school diploma or equivalent | 78.8 years | 28% |
| Some college, no degree | 80.4 years | 21% |
| Bachelor’s degree | 84.1 years | 16% |
| Education Level | Civic Participation | Percent of Population |
|---|---|---|
| Less than high school diploma | 45% | 12% |
| High school diploma or equivalent | 60% | 28% |
| Some college, no degree | 65% | 21% |
| Bachelor’s degree | 75% | 16% |
Tips and Tricks
- Set goals. Having specific goals in mind can help you stay motivated to graduate from high school. What do you want to do after high school? Go to college? Get a job? Join the military? Once you know your goals, you can start to make a plan to achieve them.
- Get involved in extracurricular activities. Extracurricular activities can help you develop important life skills, such as leadership, teamwork, and responsibility. They can also help you make friends and build a support network.
- Get help when you need it. If you are struggling in school, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Talk to your teachers, counselors, or parents. There are also many resources available to help you succeed, such as tutoring, after-school programs, and online courses.
- Don’t give up. Graduating from high school can be challenging, but it is worth it. Don’t give up if you face setbacks. Keep working hard and you will eventually reach your goal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Dropping out of school. Dropping out of school is one of the worst things you can do for your future. It will limit your job opportunities, earning potential, and health outcomes.
- Skipping class. Skipping class can make it difficult to keep up with your coursework and graduate on time. If you are struggling in a class, talk to your teacher or counselor. They can help you get the support you need to succeed.
- Not doing your homework. Homework is an important part of the learning process. It helps you reinforce what you have learned in class and prepare for tests. If you are struggling with your homework, ask for help from your teachers, classmates, or parents.
- Procrastinating. Procrastinating can lead to stress, anxiety, and poor grades. Start working on your assignments early so that you have plenty of time to complete them.
- Not taking care of your mental health. Mental health is just as important as physical health. If you are struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression, talk to a counselor or therapist. They can help you get the support you need to succeed in school and life.
