Ozimek's Argument Against College Degree

On the other hand, according to a paper by Adam Ozimek, an economist, many argue that the four year degree is not always worth it for certain majors. A recent study “found eleven schools where the degrees had a 20 year net return of -$30,000 or worse compared to just graduating high school” (Ozimek). Ozimek insists that certain majors, in the end, do not financially give back the amount that was lost in going to college to obtain those majors. I think Ozimek is mistaken because he overlooks the fact that not all majors are in short demand. I researched on USBLS and found that my major, registered nursing, has increased nineteen percent which is faster than average and although it might be hard work in the beginning and the major is impacted, …show more content…
Ozimek alleges, “These include gas plant operators (median annual wage $57,200), real estate brokers ($54,910). . .” (Ozimek). The essence of Ozimek’s argument is that many years are spent wasted trying to graduate after high school with a four year degree when in fact there are many decent jobs after high school that could offer close to the same pay with a degree. Even though I concede that there may be many jobs that provide enough assistance for a person to live on their own, especially for those that need to start making money soon, I still insist that going to college after high school is essential. I have always wanted to specialize in nursing even though I can get a job that pays well after high school. As a gas plant operator, for example, one might make a decent wage, but would have to work night shifts, be exposed to hazards, and have to live near gas rich regions to work, which is something I am not interested in doing. Like most people, I need to be happy with what I end up doing for the rest of my life and college will help me do