Experience vs. education has long been a center for debates, with countless students still wondering if spending so much money on a college degree is really worth it.
Even though statistics show, those with a bachelor’s degree, in general, earn 10% to 20% more on a weekly basis compared to those without a high school diploma. While college graduates with advanced degrees, doctoral professional, or master’s degrees, triple their earnings.
With the constant rise in “self-made” entrepreneurs, it’s no wonder why students debate whether degree vs. experience is more worth it. So, the real question is, what should you focus on education experience or work-related experience? Is buying all the books and paying for college fees the best way to invest in your future? Let’s take a look at the statistics first.
Experience vs. Education for a More Successful Career
When you think about all the sizeable investments you are going to make, a college education doesn’t seem that promising. You will spend thousands of dollars on college fees, and there is still no guarantee that you will get that job after you graduate. So, who will win in the battle between degree vs. experience? Let’s take a look at what makes both of these factors beneficial.
1. With a College Degree, You Develop A Huge Network
The more you invest in your college education, the more contacts you are going to get in a specific industry. These contacts are a network that will help you get the job you need. These are the contacts you will use as a recommendation. The more contacts you have, the higher the chance of getting a well-paid job.
These people can help you with your papers in college, recommend an interesting research site you can use, and more. You will also meet people on the same level as you, with similar skills, knowledge, and experience. You can work on different projects together, learn from each other, maybe write a paper together, or ask for help you if you are stuck on an assignment, etc. If you have trouble finishing up your college assignments, you can buy college papers online. It is a cheap way to solve your problem since you can buy the papers and still have enough time to focus on other assignments. In cases such as these, education is a clear winner. After all, your network of people will be a stepping stone for a successful career.
2. Employers Want Relevant Experience, Not Just a Degree
You can definitely see the difference between education experience and work experience when looking for a job. The truth is, more than 58% of employers value experience rather than education; the main reason being skilled employees are ready to work. They don’t need to be trained, which saves plenty of time, effort, and money for the employer.
So, even if you do finish college and haven’t worked in a specific field, you are less likely to get that job despite having a college degree. Without a college degree, however, it’s very difficult to get a well-paid job, particularly in a specific field. As a result, it’s best to work and study at the same time to focus on co-ops or internships that will increase your career prospects and give you the work experience you need. In this case, the experience is equally important as a college degree.
3. The Type of Education Experience You Get Matters
A reputable college is an important place to study, it is not cheap, but it’s beneficial. Getting a degree from any college won’t have the same impact on your resume as obtaining one from a reputable college.
Reputable colleges have better education, skilled professors, and work with approved and acknowledged teaching techniques that will help you improve your skills. Colleges such as these do stand out and leave a positive impression on your resume. Without a college degree, you are less likely to move forward, so in this case, education does have its perks.
4. For Self-Made Billionaire Entrepreneurs, Experience Is the Key
People look up to popular college dropouts who’ve become billionaires such as Steve Jobs, Mark Zuckerberg, Lex Wexner, David Geffen, Micky Arison, and many others. Some of these entrepreneurs quickly determine whether degree vs. experience is more important for a successful career.
Many say experience is more important. For them, it’s impossible to enter the business world fresh out of school. If you have the experience, employers will acknowledge your skills, which will leave you plenty of opportunities to progress. You won’t fall behind or flake out; instead, you will focus on that experience and improve it.
5. With Experience, You Overcome Your Competition
In most, if not all, the fields, there is plenty of competition to get a job. A person who has plenty of experience in a specific field can overshadow their competition with ease. In fact, 80% of employers are most likely to pick people with more professional experience rather than those with no work experience at all.
With adequate working experience, students have the chance to develop commercial skills, better understand the global market, and progress professionally in their field. Practical experience allows that and more, which makes it extremely beneficial and in high demand for any employer.
Conclusion
Education is not cheap; in fact, it is a huge investment; not many are willing to make. But, the problem is, even if you have a college degree, without sufficient work experience, it’s very difficult to get a job. Plus, a degree doesn’t even guarantee you will get employed. Yet, a college degree offers well-paid and opens the door for excellent career paths. In the end, there is no clear winner since both education experience, and work experience are equally important for a successful career.
