Can You Go to College with a GED?
For many individuals who have a General Education Development (GED) certificate, the prospect of attending college may seem unattainable or daunting. There are several myths surrounding GEDs, including the stigma that it is an inferior education to a traditional high school diploma and that it limits career opportunities. However, earning a GED can be the first step towards a successful college education. In this article, we will explore the benefits, myths, and challenges of attending college with a GED. We will also provide tips and guidance on how to navigate the college admissions process as a GED graduate.
The Surprising Benefits of Going to College with a GED
Attending college with a GED has many benefits for individuals who seek to further their education and career opportunities.
Increased career opportunities: Going to college opens up a plethora of career opportunities that may not be available with only a high school diploma or GED. Many job descriptions require a certain level of education, and a college degree can make an individual more competitive in the job market.
More earning potential: Studies show that college graduates earn, on average, significantly more than individuals with only a high school diploma or GED. Investing in a college education can lead to higher earning potential throughout one’s life.
Personal fulfillment and sense of achievement: Earning a college degree can provide a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment that cannot be replicated by any other experience. College can offer personal growth and skill development that can be applied in different areas of life.
5 Myths About Attending College with a GED Debunked
Many myths surround the concept of earning a college degree with a GED. However, many of these myths are inaccurate and baseless.
Myth 1: You can’t get into a good college with a GED: This is simply not true. Many colleges and universities have updated their admissions policies to accept GED graduates as part of a diverse student body. Admissions criteria are not solely based on academic performance but also consider extracurricular activities, leadership potential, and personal characteristics.
Myth 2: A GED education is inferior to a traditional high school diploma education: This is another false myth. Both a traditional high school diploma and a GED certificate signify equivalent levels of education. Both diplomas require passing a standardized test that demonstrates proficiency in core subjects such as reading, math, science, and social studies.
Myth 3: Community college is the only option for GED graduates: While community colleges can be a good starting point for college education, there are many other colleges and universities that accept GED graduates. GED graduates can attend any college or university that accepts students based on their academic merit and potential.
Myth 4: Colleges don’t provide financial aid for GED graduates: This is not true. Like any other college student, GED graduates are eligible for financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and loans. GED graduates can also apply for specific financial aid opportunities available for non-traditional students.
Myth 5: Employers don’t value a college degree earned with a GED: This is a common myth that many employers have debunked. Most employers value a college degree and are solely focused on an individual’s qualifications, experience, and work ethic.
How to Successfully Navigate the College Admissions Process with a GED
While earning a college degree with a GED is entirely possible, there are steps that individuals can take to increase their chances of success.
1. Research colleges and their admission requirements: It is crucial to research different colleges’ and universities’ admissions policies and requirements before applying. Investigate individual departments, majors, and opportunities available at each institution to determine the best fit for individual needs and goals.
2. Meet with college advisors or counselors: College advisors can offer tremendous support throughout the application process, including answering any questions and providing guidance on the academic process. It is essential to communicate with advisors early and proactively to ensure that all requirements and deadlines are met.
3. Prepare for college entrance exams (SAT/ACT): Many colleges require a college entrance exam to measure aptitude and potential for college-level work. Preparation for these exams can be done through self-study materials, tutoring services, or specialized classes.
4. Demonstrate strong academic performance in college coursework: Maintaining a high level of academic performance throughout the college years can be beneficial when pursuing graduate programs or job opportunities.
Tips for overcoming potential barriers during the application process:
1. Highlight accomplishments, achievements, and leadership roles: It is crucial to provide details about experience, accomplishments, or leadership roles that stand out among other candidates. This can include volunteer work, athletic achievements, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate character and dedication.
2. Seek out supportive individuals, such as mentors and educators: Communicating with supportive individuals, such as mentors, counselors, or educators, can offer a sense of guidance and support throughout the application process.
3. Emphasize experience, work history, and personal characteristics to stand out among other applicants: Detailed descriptions of past work experiences, including transferable skills, can stand out among other applicants. Additionally, providing personal characteristics that demonstrate resilience, work ethic, or critical thinking can set candidates apart from others.
Challenges and Triumphs of Earning a College Degree with a GED
While earning a college degree with a GED can be a worthwhile experience, there are also challenges that GED graduates may face.
Common difficulties encountered during college for GED graduates:
1. Academic challenges: GED graduates may face more academic challenges than traditional high school graduates due to their lack of preparation for college-level coursework.
2. Social isolation: GED graduates may feel socially isolated in college, as they may be older than their peers and have different experiences.
3. Financial difficulties: College can be expensive, and financial difficulties can arise during the application process as well as throughout the college years.
Inspiring stories of GED graduates who pursued a college degree:
1. Overcoming academic and personal obstacles to earn a degree: Many GED graduates have overcome significant academic or personal obstacles to earn a college degree. These individuals demonstrate a high level of resilience and demonstrate that where one comes from doesn’t determine where one can go.
2. Achieving successful careers despite initial setbacks and challenges: GED graduates who have gone on to achieve successful careers in their field demonstrate that a college degree, regardless of how earned, can lead to professional growth and advancement.
From GED to College and Beyond: Inspiring Success Stories
Some of the world’s most successful people did not earn a traditional high school diploma, but instead, went on to earn a GED and then attend college.
These successful individuals include:
1. Entrepreneurs: Michael Dell, the founder of Dell Computers, dropped out of high school in his freshman year before earning a GED and going on to attend the University of Texas at Austin. With a net worth of over $30 billion, he is considered one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the world.
2. Politicians: Mitt Romney, the former Governor of Massachusetts, earned a GED before attending Brigham Young University and Harvard Law School to become Governor and later a presidential candidate.
3. Medical professionals: Richard Carmona, who earned a GED after dropping out of high school in his senior year, went on to become a trauma surgeon and later the Surgeon General of the United States.
The lessons learned from these individuals include:
1. Hard work and dedication are more important than initial setbacks: All these individuals encountered setbacks and difficulties before achieving success. However, hard work and dedication to their goals enabled them to overcome these setbacks and become successful.
2. A GED shouldn’t limit someone’s potential or goals: Earning a GED should not limit someone’s potential and opportunities for success. With determination and effort, achieving a college degree and pursuing a fulfilling career is achievable.
Conclusion
This article has debunked some of the harmful myths surrounding GEDs, highlighted the benefits of earning a college degree, and provided tips and guidance on navigating the admissions process successfully. The college admissions process with a GED may present additional challenges, but with perseverance and dedication, individuals can achieve just as much success as traditional high school graduates.
It is essential to remember that a GED does not limit one’s potential and that success can be achieved regardless of one’s academic background. As demonstrated by successful individuals who have pursued a college degree with a GED certificate, hard work and determination can lead to incredible success.