It’s about an image of self-worth. If you think you are only worth X, X is all you will make.
Well, there's that, but also if you want to get ahead, either with or without a degree, you need to be willing to work hard.
A buddy of mine worked in dental labs since high school, making dentures and such. He did so all through college as well, though he eventually dropped out of college (as did I). Today, he's a partner in a dental lab, and last year he made over $100,000. The only reason he's doing so is because he's a very hard worker. I don't think that he's even worked less than 50 or 60 hours a week, and as a partner, he still puts in 6 day work weeks.
In 4 1/2 years as an IT tech, I worked 80 hours a week. Today, I'm still in IT, just shy of 20 years later. I've made as much as $80,000, but 2 years ago I lost my job, and had to start out again, making far less. Still, by working about 220 hours a month, I'm doing well, and have gotten 2 raises in just a year and a half at this new job.
The key is that you have to be willing to work hard, and do what ever it takes to get the job done. Unfortunately, too many kids today aren't willing to do it.
And regarding college degrees, I have no doubt that I'd have done much better with a degree than without one. I've been turned down for jobs because of it. I'm sure that I could have done as well or better, with far less work, if I had completed a degree. Or, knowing myself, I would have worked just as hard, and been far ahead of where I am today.
Mark
“Well, there’s that, but also if you want to get ahead, either with or without a degree, you need to be willing to work hard.”
No doubt about that. I don’t know how many times I was told, “Work hard and you’ll never do without” as a kid.