The number one reason to attend college is to become qualified for jobs that earn more money. The U.S. Census Bureau's 2005-2010 American Community Survey shows (see table below) that in New Mexico the median annual earnings for workers at least 25 years old with a high school diplomas is $24,658; those with an associate's degree earn on average $29,720, with a bachelor's degree this figure is $42,203 and with a graduate degree the amount is $53,693. Individuals with an associate's degree earn over $5,000 more per year than those with only a high school education. It is quite clear that education leads to higher annual earnings.

An important reason to attend college is to become qualified for jobs that address our personal interests better. College offers graduates more choices, better economic security and greater control over their lives. Statistics from The General Social Survey 1988 to 2006 show that "Among those with less than a high-school education, 45% are very satisfied compared to 58% very satisfied among those with post-graduate degrees" from Job Satisfaction in America: Trends and Socio-Demographic Correlates by Tom W. Smith. College education can lead to increased job and over all life satisfaction.

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2005-2010 American Community Survey 5 year estimates.

There are a number of reasons why a student does not feel that college is an option. Some of these, and possible responses to them are provided below:

1. I can't afford it. - It's not as expensive as you think, and there is help available. Most community colleges cost less than a typical cell phone plan over the same time period. College students have access to a wide variety of financial aid and grant products.
2. Nobody in my family has ever gone. - Continuing education after high school is much more important for your generation than it was for your parents' generation. Today, most good jobs require more than a high school diploma. Being the first in you family to attend college can be a source of pride and open up work opportunities not available otherwise. By being the first in your family you will help be a roll model for other family members.
3. I already have a job. – Consider your job and how much it pays right now. Is this the amount you want to be earning in 5 years? What advancement opportunities are open to you at your place of employment? Are there co-workers who make more money than you in jobs that you would like to have? What sort of credentials do you need to move to those positions? Ask your co-workers and your supervisor what they would think about you taking some college courses to improve your job skills. Answers to these questions will help you put college into perspective.
4. It's too far for me to drive to go to college. – Distance learning opportunities are available over the internet and address those who may not be close to colleges. In addition, many colleges have local branches and investing in remote learning opportunities.
5. College is too hard for me. - Lots of students think that college will be hard. Keep in mind, all colleges offer tutoring and student support. Nobody starts out in college knowing everything. If they did then why would the go to college? College is a great place to learn.
6. I just won't fit in. – New Mexico schools have very diverse student bodies and provide a wide range of activities. When selecting a college ask about the composition of the students attending as well as the social aspects of school.
7. I don't know what I want to do with my life. - College is a good place to explore your potential. College has many courses and topics to explore. Students often change degree programs several times before completing college.
8. I'm tired of school and just want to get out and work for awhile. – College is not the same as high school. College students are more involved in and in control of their learning environment. They decide how, where and when to study. They choose the best time for taking classes. There is also a greater variety of classes to study. If you delay going to college then you will miss out on some of the scholarship opportunities.