Is a degree really important?

Question

I feel like such a loser for never getting a degree in college. I have my lisence in cosmetology and Im making okay money working in an office as an administrative assistant. But most people I know have gotten their degrees, and I feel like im not as good. Is this silly, or should I not worry about it so much?

Answer 1

It was to me, because I had to have it for my career. I think it depends on what you want to do. It's always nice to have it as a back up plan.

Answer 2

College isn't for everybody. We'd be in a lot of trouble if all we had were academics. Think about all the plumbers, electricians, carpenters, etc. that'd we need to actually turn the plans into a reality.. and they get paid well too. I got degrees, but neither of my parents ever did. That doesn't make them lesser people. The key is to be proud of what you can do. You got your cosmetology license. That means you can do hair. Have you any idea how much in demand a good stylist is? People pay out the wazoo for a good stylist.
If you feel bad because you don't have enough "book knowledge", then start reading. Pick any subject that interests you and read around.
I really think this is all in your head. You really worry over nothing. The value of a person isn't measured by a degree. There are good and bad people, with and without degrees.

Answer 3

What's really important is how you feel about your choosen career. The fact that you received a license in cosmetology indicates that you haven't shied away from becoming educated in a specific field. And if you enjoy your current position as an adminstrative assistant and work at being an indispensable employee, then you're doing way better than a lot of kids with degrees and no enjoyable job or career plan. Not all of us are cut out for college, but if we make a contribution to this world in some shape or form, then we're doing what we're here for!

Answer 4

If you feel that you should have a degree., then you should go back to school and get it. A degree is only as good as your reason for getting it. If you want it in order to help you feel equal to the people you work with or are friends with. then you probably want it for the wrong reasons. If you're thinking about going back to school for the degree because you feel you personally need it, that would be a much better reason and will probably help you to feel better about yourself. Getting a degree doesn't mean that one person is better than another nor more capable either. It only means that the person with the degree went through a period of training that will probably make him or her a much better emloyee and a little better thinker than a person who doesn't get one. It will increase your earning capability but that shouldn't be the only, nor the primary, consideration when contemplating the effort. You should feel the need and the desire for one, not the need to be as good as someone else in your own eyes. This indicates a lack of self esteem and getting a degree won't do much for that condition. That can only be cured by you looking at yourself and accepting yourself as you are, for who you are and not caring whether others look down at you or hold you in highest regard. You should just be able to look yourself in the mirror, the mind and the heart and know that you are doing the best you can with what you've got, and be satisfied and proud of that. This is what self esteem is all about. It's not in the least tied to piece of paper.

Answer 5

If you have time, go for the college degree, it will surely help you get a better job.
But remember also that there are plenty of jerks with a degree.

Answer 6

It was to me, because I had to have it for my career. I think it depends on what you want to do. It's always nice to have it as a back up plan.

Answer 7

Well, if you are young and still have time and can afford it, go for it otherwise, don't bother