Why Do I need my high school diploma?

So, you never finished high school. Whether a failed class kept you from graduating, or difficult life circumstances caused you to put your education on hold, the fact remains that you never received a high school diploma. Chances are, you have been told how vital it is to have a high school diploma. But so far, you have been able to survive without one. Perhaps you are asking yourself, is a high school diploma that important? Will a piece of paper really change my life?

A high school diploma is far more than a piece of paper. It is a key that unlocks the door to a brighter future.

We all want the best future for ourselves and our loved ones, and earning a high school diploma secures a greater level of fulfillment in multiple facets of life. Statistics show that individuals with a high school diploma are significantly more financially successful, protected from economic turmoil, and satisfied with life than those who never completed their high school degree.

How can getting a high school diploma help me financially?

Did you know that without a high school diploma, you are twice as likely to live in poverty than someone who graduated high school? Simply completing high school cuts your chances of living in poverty in half, protecting you and your loved ones from financial hardship.

In addition, earning a high school diploma is saying “yes” to a higher salary. Research shows that high school graduates earn an average of $143 dollars more per week than those without a diploma! You know what you are worth, and earning your high school diploma ensures your value is reflected in your salary.

A bigger salary is great, but what about the economy, unemployment rates and job security?

A high school diploma helps shield graduates from the effects of a volatile economy. In recent years, the highs and lows of the economic rollercoaster have been devastating. Millions have suffered unemployment and hardship caused by economic crisis. Unfortunately, the individuals most affected by economic downfall are those without a high school diploma. Unemployment rates for those without a high school diploma can be up to twice as high* as for high school graduates, and the outlook remains grim.

Our world continues to be shaped by technological advancement, automation of jobs, and overseas outsourcing, and an unskilled labor force is rapidly becoming obsolete.The first jobs to go are those held by individuals without formal education, and more employers are requiring a high school diploma to be considered for employment. Not only does this make those without a diploma more vulnerable to job loss, but it also makes reentering the job market increasingly brutal. Thankfully, earning your diploma helps secure a more stable future.

Money isn’t everything. How else can a high school diploma benefit me?

Although financial security is important, money isn’t the only benefit of earning a diploma. Research shows that those with a high school diploma have a greater quality of life than those who never graduated. High school graduates carry with them the satisfaction of contributing to their communities and bettering themselves. Beyond material gain, earning a high school diploma is something to be proud of. It is a symbol of dedication, character, and hard work. It is proof that no matter what your life circumstances were, you took hold of your destiny and made the choice to develop yourself. That feeling of personal fulfillment is priceless!

Regardless of where you are in life, finishing high school is a step towards a brighter future. Unlock the door to success by enrolling to complete your high school diploma today!