Comments on: With no jobs, grads “gamble” on education

By: Laura Vanderkam

Laura Vanderkam — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 22:01:29 +0000

In reply to Anon. Anon- I think it depends on the calculations. The economists I talked to said the returns were declining for some sub-groups, but not for others. And of course, a degree is worth more than attending some and not finishing. In general, college is worth it for most people but you have to be more careful with graduate degrees. Many of those do not return enough, accounting for debt loads, to justify their costs on increased earnings. There may be other reasons to go.

By: Anon

Anon — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 19:39:50 +0000

Laura, how definite is that the value of higher ed has eroded? It’s clear it doesn’t ensure economic security. Still, I’ve read sources they say it’s risen.

Consider, this by a Nobel and Clarke winning pair:
http://www.american.com/archive/2007/may-june-magazine-contents/the-upside-of-income-inequality/

By: Cara Marcano

Cara Marcano — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 18:29:15 +0000

I like the scientists’ comments here about individuality and that being a personal characteristic. It is interesting how also some of the qualities that make for a great student, drive, work, great study habits are not exactly what a lot of companies are looking for and why some of us do better as entrepreneurs. I wonder if this woman from yesterday’s post might have been happier in more of her own company or an entrepreneurial role.
I am too individualistic or something for corporate america..
I really like working on my own having my own pace, and my own schedule… so much so that when I hired an assistant I put her in a totally different area of the office, I don’t like to have anyone work near me. I think I am highly motivated but would be put in a corner (and have been) in many or most corporate jobs for “bad behavior” !!!