High school is one of the essential developmental periods in a young person’s life. Many milestones and critical life choices occur during the high school years. Experiencing the full benefits of the high school experience typically requires graduating high school or earning a high school equivalency diploma.
The answer to the question: “Is it important to finish high school?” is a resounding “yes” in most instances. Regardless of which type of school you attend or which learning style you prefer, it is essential to complete high school for a number of reasons. There are, however, a few instances where not completing high school may be a good choice for you.
In this post, we will cover why it’s so important for most people to finish high school and go on to some type of continuing education and the benefits. We will also share some strategies for successfully completing high school even if you are struggling to get through it.
Benefits of Being a High School Graduate
There are many benefits associated with earning a high school diploma. Presenting that diploma has various benefits that has the potential to form the foundation of your future career and possible continuing education.
Improved Career Outcomes
Completing high school is an important steps for young people and can drastically increase their quality of life and future career outcomes. The National Center for Education Statistics reports that 17 percent of people in their early 20s who do not have a high school diploma are perpetually unemployed.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, workers who earned a high school diploma warn an average of $10,000 more per year than those without. The Career Outlook report revealed that there are more than three times as many jobs available for those who have earned a high school diploma.
Graduating high school is highly correlated with both continuing education and career success. This credential unlocks access to higher education programs such as tech programs, some military programs, certifications, and colleges or universities, where graduates gain specialized skills and knowledge for various career paths. Completing high school also sets up students with other important life skills such as communication and collaboration which are essential in any workplace setting.
Furthermore, having a high school degree demonstrates that an individual has the dedication and commitment to achieve goals even under challenging circumstances. This is a quality that employers look for as an indicator of academic or professional success.
Ultimately, having a high school diploma is an incredibly valuable asset that has the potential to open many doors throughout an individual’s lifetime and lead them into more secure and prosperous future opportunities. While a traditional high school diploma is favored, a high school equivalency diploma is accepted by most employers, especially in the trade industries.
Improved Health Outcomes
A study published by the National Institute for Health reported that adults with higher education levels live longer and healthier lives than their less educated peers. The disparities are staggering.
Although a GED may seen like a viable option for anyone struggling in high school, another public health study showed that students who earned their high school diploma had improved health outcomes when compared to students who tested for and received their GED.
To experience the best possible health outcomes throughout your adult life, it is important to complete your high school diploma.
Continuing Education Opportunities
If you decide that you want to continue your education, a high school diploma makes that easier. Most colleges and technical schools require a high school diploma to apply.
There are some community colleges and trade schools that do not require a high school diploma; however, they require either competency testing or prerequisite courses before you may begin you actual curriculum. Those tests and courses will be at your expense. Those who have a diploma are not required to take them and will save that money on their continuing education. Many grants, scholarships, and financial aid is only available to students who have a high school diploma.
Individuals with a high school diploma are better equipped to pursue further education and obtain an undergraduate or graduate degree from an accredited university or college. This leads to more promising job opportunities in specialized fields such as engineering, technology, finance, and medicine which often require higher levels of education for entry-level positions.
Furthermore, with an increased knowledge base and the ability to apply it effectively within the workplace, people who take the time to complete their secondary education are capable of making meaningful contributions in many industries.
Social Development
Completing high school is an important milestone that is beneficial for developing social skills. High school is a great place to meet new and different types of people and form meaningful relationships that could last a lifetime.
Through these relationships, students learn how to empathize with the feelings of others, resolve conflict in a more mature manner, and practice active listening.
Finishing high school can lead to better public speaking and communication skills. Many teachers require students to participate in class discussions or present in front of their peers, helping them become more confident when speaking in public settings.
Completing a high school program provides students with the opportunity to embrace leadership roles such as club president or team captain, encouraging them to practice leadership qualities such as delegation and decision-making skills. These qualities are essential for fostering strong relationships both inside and outside of the classroom and can help individuals become well-rounded individuals who know how to succeed in a variety of social situations.
Graduating from high school is an invaluable experience that prepares students for success in the real world.
There Are Exceptions
If you were not able to complete high school, don’t despair. Being aware of the potential negative outcomes can help you to overcome them. It is still possible to earn a decent income without a high school diploma if you are strategic and apply for the right jobs.
If you are among the 10% of high schoolers in the US who did not earn their diploma, a prosperous career is still within reach. Here are some ideas:
- Freelance Work. If you have a skill that is in demand, consider working for yourself, offering your services to others on a contract basis.
- Virtual Assistant. The rapid increase of remote work has increased the need for virtual assistants.
- Graphic Designer. With the potential for very high earnings, graphic designers are in high demand and do not require a high school diploma. You will want to become Photoshop certified and be proficient in the latest graphic design software.
- Food Courier. The disruptive food delivery industry is rapidly hiring food courier who are earning high hourly rates. UberEats and DoorDash are just a few companies you can apply to.
- Package Delivery. Amazon Flex and related services provide opportunity for people without a high school diploma to earn as much as $30 depending on their ability to deliver packages on time.
- Grocery Shopper. Companies like Instacart and Shipt are hiring shoppers- no high school diploma required. Shoppers report earning an average of $15/hour.
- Pet Walking/Grooming. If you walked dogs for extra money when you were a kid, know that pet walking and grooming is a big business with big potential to earn.
- E-Commerce. With very little upfront investment, you can start an ecommerce store selling in-demand products.
- Mining. Mine shuttle care operators, mining machine operators, rotary drill operators, and other heavy equipment specialists in the mining industry earn up to six figures without a high school diploma.
Are You Struggling to Complete High School?
If you are struggling to complete your high school education, there are options. Many times, a learning disability or life circumstances can make it difficult to navigate a traditional high school setting.
Virtual School
If you are struggling with completing high school, consider transferring to a virtual school program. Learning in a virtual environment will allow you flexibility to complete classwork at your pace and on your time schedule.
Military School
If your ultimate goal is to enlist in the military, you may flourish in a military boarding school for high school. The daily schedule includes drills, fitness, and academics.
Technical
If you dream of training for a specific skilled trade, enroll in a technical high school that allows for hands-on learning in the area of most interest.
Alternative
Many alternative high schools exist to accommodate students who have experienced struggles in their lives. If you are a student who must work to help provide for your family or if you have behavioral struggles that prevent you from functioning in a traditional learning environment, there may be an alternative school to meet your needs. Pregnant teens rely on alternative schools to complete high school during and even after their pregnancy.
Special Needs Focused
If you are struggling to complete your high school diploma because of a learning disability, there may be a special needs program in your area that can provide the resources you need to earn your high school diploma.
High school is an essential part of any education and provides students with the opportunity to develop valuable skills, knowledge, and relationships. It also gives students access to college opportunities, grants, scholarships, and other financial aid. Additionally, it is required for many entry-level job positions as employers often require a high school diploma or GED. Overall, finishing high school is very important for any person that wants to go on to have success in their personal and professional lives.