This document discusses the value of a college education and provides alternatives for support. While a college dropout may find success, college generally provides benefits. Career and academic support resources are available to help students succeed, whether or not they graduate. Statistics show that in 1965 and 2012, college graduates earned higher median salaries and faced lower unemployment than non-graduates, especially during recessions. However, college is not the only path, as one's experiences and networking can also lead to jobs and career advancement.

3. Asking you that now is like…

5. Plenty of Help is Available…
ASC
School Psychologist
Academic Advisor
Tutor Center
Writing Center
Learning Differences
Career Center

7. “For my part, I’m just happy that the
Crimson has called me “Harvard’s
most successful dropout.” I guess that
makes me valedictorian of my own
special class … I did the best of
everyone who failed.”
Does College Equal Success?
Of Course Not. But…

11. Graduated from Penn State Behrend - 2004
Went to Mercyhurst for Teaching Certification - 2005
Went to Edinboro for Master’s Degree - 2006
Had Class with Anneliese (teacher from Titusville, PA) - 2006
Got interview with Titusville School District… Anneliese put in good word. - 2007
Worked there 10 years…. Made a change. - 2016
Interviewed for Mercyhurst, got the job! - 2016

12. What Do You Think…
What was the median salary of non-college
vs college employees in 1965?
What was the median salary of non-college
vs college employees in 2012?

13. No College vs College ~ 1965
$31,384 $38,833
Pew Research Center – March 2014

14. No College vs College ~ 2012
$28,000 $45,500
Pew Research Center – March 2014

15. Not Just About Money…
What was the
unemployment rate
of no-college vs
college employees in
recession?

16. No College vs College Unemployment
During Recession…
Pew Research Center – March 2014
12.1% 5.95%