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The importance of a High School Diploma essay

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Is a High School Diploma Important? (A Realistic Look)

Written by Nicole Dalbo on Friday, 06 January 2023. Posted in Helpful Tips

An out of focus woman holding out a high school diploma.

If you haven’t earned your high school diploma yet, you might be asking yourself, “Do I even need a high school diploma? Why is it important?” While the answer is different for everyone, a diploma can definitely help you on your journey to success. From earning potential, career opportunity outlooks, and finding out if you’re eligible to finish high school—here’s what you need to know about getting your high school diploma and what it may mean for you.

What is a high school diploma?

A high school diploma is more than just a piece of paper. It marks you having met all course-work requirements in order to graduate high school. It's also an important benchmark for future employers, colleges, and the military to get a glimpse of your capabilities.

Why is a high school diploma important?

A high school diploma is important, especially when you're applying for jobs or hoping to go to college. Here's how earning your diploma can make a difference in your life, career, and options for the future.

1. People with high school diplomas tend to earn more.

It’s true! The added credentials from a high school diploma can really help your earning potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, workers that have earned a high school diploma, make on average nearly $10,000 more per year than those without.

2. People with a high school diploma have more job options.

Earning your high school diploma can seriously pave the way for more job opportunities. As of 2019, there were over three times the number of jobs available for people with high school diplomas than those without.

Overall employment in high school-level occupations is projected to grow by 5 percent from 2016 to 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

3. Some financial aid and college admission is not available if you don’t have a diploma.

Planning on going to college but don’t have a diploma? In order to become eligible for federal student aid , the government requires you to show that you’re qualified to obtain a college education. You can do this by having earned a high school diploma, or a recognized equivalent such as a GED. High school diploma recipients that have earned good grades may also qualify for additional financial aid which GED recipients would not be eligible for.

Getting your foot in the door to college may also be easier with a high school diploma. While GEDs are accepted in most colleges and universities, there are still a select few that only allow high school diploma holders . Additionally, people with high school diplomas can send in their transcripts to admissions offices putting them at a slight advantage since they can display their skill level in various subjects.

4. You may need a high school diploma to join the military

Depending on which branch of the military you’re interested in, there are different education requirements . You may have a much easier time joining the military if you have earned a high school diploma vs a GED.

Why is that? Well, the military classifies those that have not completed high school or the equivalent as Tier 3, those with GEDs as Tier 2, and those who have a high school diploma as Tier 1. Most branches of the military will not accept Tier 3 recruits and tend to recruit a much smaller percentage of Tier 2 to join their forces than Tier 1’s.

Those with GEDS in the Tier 2 category also typically need to earn a higher ASVAB test score to qualify than those in Tier 1. James Madison High School is classified as a Tier 1 education and may make your time enlisting a much simpler process.

What are the advantages of getting a high school diploma?

Having a high school diploma is not without its perks! There are many ways that earning your high school diploma can help you out in life.

1. More job options

Some careers require a high school diploma to apply for the position. Expand your horizons with more job opportunities with a high school diploma.

2. Greater income potential

Since high school graduates tend to earn more, finishing high school can boost your potential for a higher income. And honestly, who doesn’t want to earn more money?

3. Proving to yourself that you can do it

Sometimes the biggest factor holding us back from achieving our goals is ourselves! Prove to yourself that you can overcome obstacles you come across and you’ll be well on your way to the path to success.

4. Being an example to your kids

You may even become an inspiration to your loved ones to go for their goals as well! According to Education Next, in most studies, parental education has been identified as the single strongest correlation of children’s success in school, the number of years they attend school, and their success later in life.

How does not having a high school diploma affect your life?

Not earning your high school diploma can have a bigger effect on your life than you think. Healthypeople.gov have pulled research from multiple sources claiming that high school dropouts are more likely to self-report overall poor health . These people are also more likely to suffer at least 1 chronic health condition. In other words, completing your high school diploma may decrease the risk of a shorter lifespan.

Earning a high school diploma

As education evolves into modern times, there are options now that allow you to finish high school between your busy life priorities. No matter if you work full time or care for family members, high school completion is possible with a self-paced program.

Accreditation

Recognition and acceptance of your diploma are the two main reasons accreditation matters. Many colleges and prospective employers, as well as apprenticeship program directors, will decline candidates who have not graduated from an accredited high school. James Madison High School is nationally accredited by both Cognia and the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC).

What’s the oldest you can be in high school?

There’s no age limit! Whether you’re a teenager or an adult, anyone can earn their online high school diploma with James Madison High School. Get an affordable, accredited education on your time and begin your journey toward earning your high school diploma. For more information on enrolling in James Madison, reach out to our Admissions Specialists at .

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About the Author

Nicole Dalbo

Nicole Dalbo

Nicole Dalbo studied English Literature with a minor in Women’s Studies from the University of Scranton and is currently working toward her MS in Marketing. When she isn’t writing, Nicole can be found watching the newest Marvel movie, baking something sweet, or jamming out to live music.

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How to Write Any High School Essay (With Examples!)

Last Updated: August 1, 2024 Fact Checked

  • Research & Outlining Your Essay
  • Writing the Intro
  • Types of Essays & Sample Topics

Writing Techniques Cheat Sheet

This article was co-authored by Emily Listmann, MA and by wikiHow staff writer, Sophie Burkholder, BA . Emily Listmann is a Private Tutor and Life Coach in Santa Cruz, California. In 2018, she founded Mindful & Well, a natural healing and wellness coaching service. She has worked as a Social Studies Teacher, Curriculum Coordinator, and an SAT Prep Teacher. She received her MA in Education from the Stanford Graduate School of Education in 2014. Emily also received her Wellness Coach Certificate from Cornell University and completed the Mindfulness Training by Mindful Schools. There are 16 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 567,062 times.

Writing an essay is an important basic skill that you will need to succeed in high school, college, and beyond. While the exact requirements of any essay will vary depending on the teacher and assignment, most high school essays follow the same basic structure. By presenting a well-written five-paragraph essay with a strong thesis statement, you can successfully write an essay for any high school class or topic!

Writing in a High School Essay Format

Decide on and research a topic, then create your essay outline. Write an introduction that states your argument with a thesis statement, then support the thesis statement with evidence in your three main body paragraphs. Finally, restate your thesis and summarize your argument in your concluding paragraph.

Writing a High School Essay: The Preparation Stage

Step 1 Choose an essay style and topic if you haven’t already been assigned one.

  • While most high school essays follow a similar format, different requirements are needed for different types of essays —such as a persuasive, expository, narrative, or descriptive essay. [1] X Research source
  • If you need help coming up with a topic , brainstorm or search for subjects related to your assignment’s focus.

Step 2 Do preliminary research on your essay’s topic.

  • Eventually, the sources you find in your research will be the evidence to back up the main point of your essay.

Step 3 Create an arguable thesis statement for your essay.

  • For example, the statement “Elephants are used to perform in circuses” does not offer an arguable point—this statement just presents a fact.
  • Instead, you may try a thesis statement like “Elephants should not be kept in the circus since they are mistreated.” Since people may reasonably agree or disagree with this statement, you’ll be able to find supporting arguments for and against it to use in your essay.
  • Keep in mind that some types of essay writing may not require an argument, such as a narrative essay. However, the standard high school essay structure typically requires a thesis statement.

Step 4 Make an outline for the paragraphs in your essay.

  • Introduction Paragraph Hook: Thesis Statement:
  • Body Paragraph 1 Topic Sentence: Supporting Evidence #1: Supporting Evidence #2: Supporting Evidence #3:
  • Body Paragraph 2 Topic Sentence: Supporting Evidence #1: Supporting Evidence #2: Supporting Evidence #3:
  • Body Paragraph 3 Topic Sentence: Supporting Evidence #1: Supporting Evidence #2: Supporting Evidence #3:

Step 5 Find reliable sources that support your argument.

  • Talk to your school’s librarian for direction on specific books or databases you could use to find your information.
  • Many schools offer access to online databases like EBSCO or JSTOR where you can find reliable information. If you need help, consult with your teacher.
  • Wikipedia is a great starting place for your research, but it can be edited by anyone in the world, so it’s not a reliable source. Instead, look at a related Wikipedia article’s references to find the sites where the information really came from.
  • Use Google Scholar if you want to find peer-reviewed scholarly articles for your sources.
  • Make sure to consider the author’s qualifications when determining source credibility . If a source does not include the author’s name, then it might not be a good option.

Writing an Essay Introduction

Step 1 Write a hook that contains a relevant fact, quote, or question.

  • However, make sure that your hook is both accurate and related to the subject of your essay.
  • Example : Gender inequality has been an inescapable fact of life for as long as history can remember.

Step 2 Provide background and context for your topic.

  • Example: Women have been seen as inferior, and have been treated as such, for centuries. But to respond to such sexist ideas and treatment, the modern feminist movement arose. Feminism has become a prevalent theme in all forms of art, including literature. Feminist criticism examines works of literature in order to analyze their portrayal of the sexes.

Step 3 Introduce your thesis in one sentence.

  • Example: In John Steinbeck’s short story “The Chrysanthemums,” the lens of feminist criticism provides insight into how the issue of gender inequality affects the main protagonist, Elisa Allen.

Step 4 For a longer essay, include an overview of your essay at the end of the intro.

  • Mapping out this structure for the reader helps them know exactly what you’re discussing and what they should expect from the rest of your essay.
  • However, this structural preview in the introductory paragraph is typically only included in longer, more advanced essays. If you’re not sure about including this segment, double-check with your teacher. When in doubt, leave it out and end the intro with your thesis.
  • Example: This paper begins by exploring the limitations placed on Elisa due to her gender, then goes on to discuss the ways in which Steinbeck showcases Elisa’s struggles through symbolism and other literary devices. Finally, this essay will explore the modern-day parallels of Elisa’s story and the continuing ramifications of gender inequality.

Step 5 Example Introductory Paragraphs

Writing Body Paragraphs

Step 1 Determine how long your body paragraphs should be.

  • Check with your teacher if you’re not sure how many paragraphs should be in the body of your essay.

Step 2 Include a topic sentence, supporting evidence, and analysis in each paragraph.

  • Don’t assume your reader will make the connection between your info and the thesis of your paper. Analysis also gives you a chance to include your own thoughts and interpretation of the facts you provide.
  • Unless you’re writing a personal essay, avoid the use of “I” statements since this could make your essay look less professional.
  • When quoting or paraphrasing specific pieces of information or evidence, don’t forget to cite your sources in-text based on the format required for your paper. [10] X Research source Many high school essays are written in MLA or APA style. Ask your teacher what format they want you to follow if it’s not specified.

Step 3 Use transitional phrases between each of your body paragraphs.

  • For example, if your body paragraphs discuss similar points in a different way, you can use phrases like “in the same way,” “similarly,” and “just as” to start other body paragraphs.
  • If you are posing different points, try phrases like “in spite of,” “in contrast,” or “however” to transition.

Step 4 Example Body Paragraphs

Writing an Essay Conclusion

Step 1 Restate your thesis and summarize your arguments briefly.

  • For example, if your thesis was, “The cell phone is the most important invention in the past 30 years,” then you may restate the thesis in your conclusion like, “Due to the ability to communicate anywhere in the world and access information easily, the cell phone is a pivotal invention in human history.”
  • If you’re only writing a 1-page paper, restating your main ideas isn’t necessary.

Step 2 Discuss why the subject of your paper is relevant moving forward.

  • For example, if you write an essay discussing the themes of a book, think about how the themes are affecting people’s lives today.

Step 3 End the paragraph with a lasting thought that ties into your introduction.

  • Try to pick the same type of closing sentence as you used as your attention getter.

Step 4 Include a Works Cited page if you need one.

  • Including a Works Cited page shows that the information you provided isn’t all your own and allows the reader to visit the sources to see the raw information for themselves.
  • Avoid using online citation machines since they may be outdated.

Step 5 Avoid including new arguments, counter-arguments, or cliched concluding phrases.

  • At the high school level, most teachers dislike common concluding phrases like “To sum up” or “In conclusion,” so avoid using those in your final paragraph.

Step 6 Example Conclusions:

Revising & Completing Your Essay

Step 1 Reread your essay for flow, clarity, and relevancy.

  • Have a peer or parent read through your essay to see if they understand what point you’re trying to make.
  • If you find any off-topic or contradictory sections, cut them from your essay or find a way to tie it into your main focus. If you do cut parts out of your essay, make sure to reread it again to see if it affects the flow of how it reads.

Step 2 Read through your essay for punctuation or spelling errors.

Writing Different Types of High School Essays

Step 1 Expository Essays

  • Write a clear thesis statement in the introductory paragraph.
  • Provide evidence support for your thesis statement in each body paragraph.
  • Use clear and concise language without any figurative or sensory imagery.
  • Sample Topics: “What makes a good leader?,” “Describe how the internet changed the world,” “What is the theme of [literary work]?”

Step 2 Persuasive Essays

  • Write a thesis statement in the first paragraph that clearly states your opinion.
  • Use well-researched, factual, and detailed information to support your argument .
  • Include a counterpoint paragraph where you present the opposing argument and point out its flows.
  • Use the conclusion to synthesize the essay and provide insight into further research.
  • Sample Topics: “The best music genre is…,” “Is capitalism the best form of economy?,” “Should schools have dress codes?”

Step 3 Narrative Essays

  • Structure your essay like a story with a plot, characters, setting, conflict, and theme.
  • Use the first-person pronoun “I” as needed, since the story is told from your point of view.
  • Write the events in chronological order to aid organization and help readers understand better.
  • Sample Topics: “Describe a performance or sporting event you took part in,” “Describe a time in your life when you’ve been scared,” “Explain a family tradition, how it developed, and its importance today.”

Step 4 Descriptive Essays

  • Structure your essay with an introduction, body paragraph, and summary conclusion.
  • Use figurative and vivid language to provide a sensory description to the reader. Mention what something looks, feels, smells, sounds, and tastes like.
  • Use transition words to lead the readers into the right stages of emotions and follow the logical flow of the essay.
  • Sample Topics: “What is your happiest memory?,” “Write about your favorite place,” “Describe yourself to someone who has never met you.”

high school diploma essay

Community Q&A

Community Answer

  • If you have writer's block , take a break for a few minutes, stretch, get a snack, and come back to your essay. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Your teacher should have provided you with a rubric, so use that as your final guide to make sure your essay is meeting all of the criteria for this assignment. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

high school diploma essay

  • Avoid using plagiarism since this could result in academic consequences. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 1

You Might Also Like

Plan an Essay Using a Mind Map

  • ↑ https://www.grammarly.com/blog/types-of-essays/
  • ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/thesis-statements/
  • ↑ https://facultyweb.ivcc.edu/rrambo/eng1001/outline.htm
  • ↑ https://guides.libs.uga.edu/reliability
  • ↑ https://examples.yourdictionary.com/20-compelling-hook-examples-for-essays.html
  • ↑ https://wts.indiana.edu/writing-guides/how-to-write-a-thesis-statement.html
  • ↑ https://guidetogrammar.org/grammar/five_par.htm
  • ↑ https://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter/paragraphs/topicsentences
  • ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/transitions/
  • ↑ https://writingcenter.fas.harvard.edu/pages/ending-essay-conclusions
  • ↑ https://libguides.newcastle.edu.au/how-to-write-an-essay/conclusion
  • ↑ https://pitt.libguides.com/citationhelp
  • ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/revising-drafts/
  • ↑ https://www.csueastbay.edu/scaa/files/docs/student-handouts/expository-essay.pdf
  • ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/academic_writing/historical_perspectives_on_argumentation/toulmin_argument.html
  • ↑ https://gallaudet.edu/student-success/tutorial-center/english-center/writing/resources-for-writing-different-types-of-essays/guide-to-different-kinds-of-essays/

About This Article

Emily Listmann, MA

Writing good essays is an important skill to have in high school, and you can write a good one by planning it out and organizing it well. Before you start, do some research on your topic so you can come up with a strong, specific thesis statement, which is essentially the main argument of your essay. For instance, your thesis might be something like, “Elephants should not be kept in the circus because they are mistreated.” Once you have your thesis, outline the paragraphs for your essay. You should have an introduction that includes your thesis, at least 3 body paragraphs that explain your main points, and a conclusion paragraph. Start each body paragraph with a topic sentence that states the main point of the paragraph. As you write your main points, make sure to include evidence and quotes from your research to back it up. To learn how to revise your paper, read more from our Writing co-author! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Eight Reasons Why a High School Diploma Is Important to My Future

Dr. Kelly S. Meier

What Happens If You Don't Graduate High School?

Going to school may seem boring or overwhelming, but there are several benefits of finishing high school. In addition to economic and career advantages, you’ll feel rewarded for persevering and earning your diploma. Even if you don’t think that college is your next step, a high school diploma can lead to better jobs and the opportunity to apply to college at a later date.

1. Earn More Money

One of the benefits of a high school diploma is a higher earning potential. In 2017, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that high school graduates earned an average of $192 more per week than people who didn’t graduate.

This adds up over a lifetime. The Social Security administration estimates that the lifetime earnings for men with high school diplomas is $1.5 million in comparison to $1.1 million for men who don’t earn a high school diploma.

2. Pave the Way to College or a Trade School

You may ask, “Why is a high school diploma important to my future?” Attaining your high school diploma is a necessary prerequisite to apply for college admission. You’ll also need a high school diploma to be eligible for federal financial aid. A college education will help you pursue a career that requires an advanced degree.

3. Enjoy More Job Options

One of the advantages of graduating from high school is increased employment opportunities. A Georgetown University report indicated that 36 percent of available jobs require a high school diploma. More specifically, by 2020, you can expect that 13 million jobs list a high school diploma as a minimum requirement as opposed to 7 million for people without one.

4. Importance of High School Graduation

High school can be fun or seem like a chore, but once you graduate, you’ll have the satisfaction that you completed your degree. A 2018 National Center for Education Statistics report indicated that 4.8 percent of high school students dropped out of school in 2016. One of the benefits of earning your high school diploma is knowing that you had the intelligence and work ethic to get across the finish line.

5. Experience Lower Unemployment

The importance of high school graduation is evident in the unemployment rates of high school graduates compared to those adults without a diploma. In 2017, the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicated that the unemployment rate for people without a high school diploma was 7.7 percent. The rate for high school graduates was 5.3 percent.

6. Gain Introspection About Yourself

High school classes are designed to give you a well-rounded education and to help you learn more about yourself. Even if you don’t plan to go to college, finishing your high school degree will help you learn more about your strengths and weaknesses. When you make a decision about your next steps, you can apply your high school learning to a career path that’s the best fit for you.

7. You Can Join the Military

If you’ve always dreamed of being a part of the armed services, a high school diploma is a plus. Some branches of the military will accept a GED, but 90 percent of people in the military have a high school degree. Tier 1 recruits must have a high school degree, and Tier 2 can have a GED. A handful of Tier 3 recruits is admitted without a degree, but this is rare.

8. Stay out of Trouble

The main reasons that students drop out of high school are academic, family or behavioral problems, pregnancy, drug use and gang involvement. The Georgia Department of Corrections reported that more than half of their inmates were high school dropouts. Dropping out of high school doesn’t guarantee that you’ll engage in wrongdoing, but a high school diploma will open doors to productive jobs and the opportunity to pursue your interests.

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  • Penn Foster: Advantages of Having a High School Diploma
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics: Employment Projections
  • Social Security Administration: Education and Lifetime Earnings
  • Georgetown University: Recovery: Job Growth and Education Requirements Through 2020
  • National Center for Education Statistics: Trends in High School Dropout and Completion Rates in the United States: 2018
  • Bureau of Labor Statistics: Unemployment Rate 2.5 percent for College Grads, 7.7 Percent for High School Dropouts, January 2017
  • Georgia Department of Corrections: Inmate Statistical Profile

Dr. Kelly Meier earned her doctorate from Minnesota State Mankato in Educational Leadership. She is the author and co-author of 12 books and serves as a consultant in K-12 and higher education. Dr. Meier is is a regular contributor for The Equity Network and has worked in education for more than 30 years.

The Value of a High School Diploma Essay

  • To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
  • As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
  • As a template for you assignment

The preparedness of high school graduates for college has always been an issue of debate among parents, scholars, employers, and policy makers in relevant government departments. Regardless of whatever direction the debate takes, one thing is clear: that a significant percentage of high school graduates are ill equipped (at least knowledge wise) to pursue courses offered in tertiary institutions.

According to Musgrove (2010), the situation is getting worse as millions of students graduate from high school across the country each year. Of the high school graduates who chose to pursue tertiary education, Musgrove (2010) notes that “more that 40 percent [going] to community colleges, and 20-30 percent [going] to public universities, need remedial courses” (p. 2).

Such high demand for remedial courses signifies that the high school education is deficient in preparing the students for tertiary learning. Tertiary institutions generally provide remedial courses to train students about things they should have learnt while still in high school (Leake and Lesik, 2007; Musgrove, 2010). Citing Lazarick(1997), Leake and Lesik (2007) note that remedial programs provide students who are unprepared to the challenges of college-level work a chance to develop the skills and knowledge needed for the courses.

Different reasons have been offered for the current state of the high school diploma. Bahr (2008) for example state that the low value of the high school diploma can be explained by a combination of factors. Reduced strictness and standards, irrelevant high school curriculums, inequitable standards of education in different schools across the country, and boring and undemanding high school courses are just some of the factors affecting the value of high school diplomas. As such, the Bahr (2008) citing the high school debate state that any remedies must factor in “equity, curricular relevance, and student interest” (p. 420).

Societal differences such as gender, class, and race have also been cited as reasons why some students are ill prepared for college work. Bahr (2008) argues that although the validity of remedial courses is a controversial subject in the U.S., there is no doubt that such courses provide opportunities “to rectify race, class, and gender differences generated in primary and secondary schooling” (p. 420). Those against the remedial courses however argue that they represent a wasteful spending of resources.

More to this, they argue that the provision of remedial courses demoralize the faculty in colleges thus necessitating the formation of more-stringent graduation testing requirements (Bahr, 2008). If such a requirement were to be enforced, equity in the education sector would still be a nagging issue that policy makers, scholars, and the larger society would have to manage. Even with the enactment of the 2001 No Child Left Behind Act (NCLBA) , the doubts regarding equity in high school education still linger.

According to the U.S. Department of Education (2010), NCLBA intends to provide high-quality instructions and support to all students across America regardless of the advantaged or disadvantaged backgrounds.

The main indicator for the attainment of education equity as indicated by the NCLBA framers was the closing of the achievement gap that exist between disadvantaged and their well catered for peers. In the NCLBA, high schools are required to set “Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP)” objectives, which are meant to ensure that students attain proficiency in Mathematics and reading (U.S. Department of Education, 2007, p.1).

NCLBA further seeks to hold high schools responsible for student performances. In an obvious acknowledgement of the schools’ role in influencing students’ performances, NCLBA underlined the need for equipping community leaders and parents with information they would need to hold schools accountable (U.S. Department of Education, 2007). Regardless of the seemingly good intentions of the NCLBA however, there is little evidence on the Act’s impact on the value of the high school Diploma.

The value of the high school diploma is not just restricted to its worth in preparing students for college related work. Rather, some scholars have equated it in monetary terms.

Musgrove (2010) for example argues that annually, the country spends an average of 2.75 billion dollars in teaching college students things they should have learnt while still in high school. As any economist would know, this means that the economic value of high school diplomas, specifically for students who proceed to tertiary institutions, is approximately 2.75 billion dollars less their worth.

Cost and remedial courses aside, Higgins, Miller and Wegmann (2006) argue that even good grades among students who are not required to take remedial courses do not necessarily reflect their readiness for college courses. In their argument, Higgins et al (2006) observe that teachers concentrate too much on training their students about taking the test.

Ostensibly, this is done due to the need to have their students attain the pass mark. Unfortunately, such practices by the teachers sacrifice meaningful learning experiences. As a result, even though the students may pass, the value of their diplomas is highly compromised since the high school teachers are more intent on enabling the students attain high scores.

It is rather obvious that the debate about the value of the high diploma is nowhere near a meaningful conclusion. While part of the debate may argue students from disadvantaged backgrounds, deserve a chance to remedy their knowledge deficiencies through remedial courses, other feel that students who fail to attain set grades should not gain college admission.

Overall, it is evident that the value of the college diploma is compromised by the lack of non-standardization among the different groups represented in the society. As it has emerged in the essay, even students who pass their high school exist tests may not be fully equipped for the challenges contained in college course work. This only negates the value of the college diploma further.

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7 Reasons Why A High School Diploma is Important

August 15, 2022 | Tracie Hummel

7 Reasons Why A High School Diploma is Important image

If you’ve stumbled across this post, you’re likely wondering whether or not you should pursue your high school diploma. Maybe your family circumstances have made it difficult to commit to the demands of a traditional high school. Maybe you didn’t get the one-on-one attention from teachers you needed or you struggled with bullying or a non-inclusive environment. Maybe you are just uninterested or unmotivated in school.

Regardless of your circumstances, if you are asking yourself “is getting a high school diploma important,” we can assure you that the answer is 100% yes! There are many benefits to getting a high school diploma, but don’t take our word for it – see what some of our program’s graduates had to say about how a high school diploma through Acceleration Academies helped them find success and purpose in life.

No. 1: There Are More Job Opportunities for High School Graduates

Getting your high school diploma opens the door for many job opportunities. Not all jobs require a bachelor’s or other postsecondary degree; in fact, there are several exciting, well-paying career opportunities for high school graduates . Best of all? The demand for these jobs is at an all time high.

“What I’m most proud of since graduating high school is getting a job as an electrician.*”

Christopher Carino, Sarasota Acceleration Academies

*According to Indeed , the average salary for electricians in 2022 is $58,410, and after 10 years of experience, electricians can expect to earn close to $70,000 per year. Aspiring electricians must complete an apprenticeship before they become licensed but on-the-job training is typically paid.

Why does high school matter in the real-world? Here are 4 reasons why high school is important to your future boss.

No. 2: you can find high paying jobs with just a high school diploma.

Compared to their peers without a diploma, high school graduates earn significantly more. According to the US Census Bureau and The Bureau of Labor Statistics , high school graduates earn approximately $1,600 more per month compared to those who obtained a GED. Additionally, high school graduates can expect to earn at least $500,000 more during their lifetime compared to those with a GED.

“The thing I’m most proud of since graduation is being able to get higher wages.”

Lonnie Christian, Clark County Acceleration Academies

“A portion of my family members did not get a high school diploma and they really pushed me to get mine. In this day and age, you really need one to get a good paying job.”

Ashton Steiner, Bethel Acceleration Academies

Get Back on Track to a High School Diploma

No. 3: A High School Diploma Helps You Support Your Family 

For young parents and other young adults who need to support their families, a high school diploma is especially important. Since a diploma comes with more job opportunities and higher pay, it helps these young people better support their families.

“A high school diploma was important to me because I have a daughter that looks up to me. I needed to educate myself for a better future and to set an example for my daughter. I was a single mother working two jobs while I was at Acceleration Academies. The flexibility of the program was what helped me reach my goal of graduating high school.”

Honey Cardona Franco, St. Lucie Acceleration Academies

“Getting a high school diploma was important to me so that I could get a full-time job to help my family out. Since graduating, I’ve been working full time at a public warehouse.”

Daniel Va’a, Bethel Acceleration Academies

No. 4: With a High School Diploma, You Can Set Yourself Up for Long Term Success

Whether your ambitions are career-based, educational-focused or family-oriented, receiving your high school diploma is the first step to a successful future. Not only will you have more opportunities, but you’ll be better equipped for success. Learn more about how high school prepares you for the real world here .

“As a mom, it’s important to me to make a difference so that I can make myself and my son proud. Graduating high school helped me do that and allowed me to successfully join the workforce.”

Alexia Xavier, St. Lucie Acceleration Academies

No. 5: Having a High School Diploma Makes it Possible to Attend College

A high school diploma is a prerequisite for most accredited American colleges and universities. In addition to being required for most postsecondary programs, receiving your high school diploma is a great way to establish and develop study habits, effective time management and pave the way for academic success.

“Since graduation, I’m most proud of going to college and studying criminal justice.”

Donalson Beaucejour, St. Lucie Acceleration Academies

“I’m proud of getting accepted into a 4-year college. Attending any college, whether 2 or 4 year, is a huge accomplishment! Just being in the position to write and submit an admissions essay to a school I wanted to attend was a huge accomplishment.”

Breeze Phillips, Bethel Acceleration Academies

No. 6: Earning a High School Diploma Allows You to Join the Military

Enlisting in the military is a great post-graduation path that offers many benefits including job training, health coverage, housing benefits, good pay and more. The military is clear that it prefers candidates to have a high school diploma. According to Today’s Military , “Candidates with a GED can enlist, but some Services may limit their opportunities. It is very difficult to be considered a serious candidate without either a high school diploma or an accepted alternative credential.”

“Getting my high school diploma was important for me for many reasons. It helped me gain a sense of pride in myself and enabled me to join the military. Now, I’m enrolling in college. I honestly have no idea where I would be right now without Acceleration Academies!”

Asharei Faison, Clark County Acceleration Academies

No. 7: A High School Diploma Gives You a Sense of Accomplishment that Builds Confidence

One underrated but incredibly important reason to get your high school diploma is the sense of accomplishment that comes with achieving a goal. Setting a goal and reaching it builds confidence and teaches you many life skills and lessons along the way.

“In getting my high school diploma, I became my own biggest fan. I knew I could succeed if I stayed focused. Now, I have my own small business and CareerSourc e even wrote an article about me!”

Jada Reid, St. Lucie Acceleration Academies

“Getting my diploma helped me prove to myself how smart I am! That has given me a huge sense of pride and satisfaction.”

Jacquil Whitehead, Miami-Dade Acceleration Academies

Want to hear from more of our students about how Acceleration Academies helped them graduate? See more student testimonials and stories.

The great news is that Acceleration Academies makes getting your high school diploma simpler than ever before .

Take the first step toward re-entering high school and earning your diploma today.

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high school diploma essay

What is the Importance of a High School Diploma in the 21st Century?

  • By Emily Summers
  • February 13, 2020

Your parents probably tell you all the time that it’s crucial to get a quality education. Sorry for bursting your bubble, but they’re right. We’re not stuck in the olden times when people could just simply live off the land and work without going to school. Today, you can’t do much unless you have a high school diploma.

Although people often think that a diploma and a degree mean the same thing, there are differences between the two. For instance, you don’t earn a high school degree because such a thing doesn’t exist. You can only earn a degree after you complete a program at a post-secondary institute . In other terms: college.

A diploma, on the other hand, is a document that verifies you’ve completed a program of study, such as a high school program. You can also earn a diploma after finishing a program in a specific field, such as computer programming or nursing.

How to Earn a High School Diploma

What if i didn’t finish high school can i still get a high school diploma, career opportunities, further education, high school diploma vs. college degree, major benefits of going to college, should i go to college right after receiving a high school diploma, the importance of higher education in the 21 st century.

Typically, students complete four years of high school to earn their diplomas. Requirements to earn a high school diploma vary depending on the school and the state , so candidates should inquire with their state’s Department of Education or their educational institution for more details.

Earning a public high school diploma traditionally entails the completion of courses in science, mathematics, English, social studies, physical education, electives, and foreign language.

Earning a high school diploma from a private school may require additional coursework in fine arts and foreign language.

graduating students

If you didn’t finish high school, you can still earn a diploma through various other programs. Many states have adult high schools that enable you to continue where you left off and earn the remaining credits you need to graduate. All states also offer exams you can take to receive a high school equivalency diploma.

Adult High School Diploma

Online high schools, high school equivalency diplomas, why do i need a high school diploma.

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With a high school diploma, you open yourself to many educational and professional opportunities. Here are six reasons why getting a high school diploma is important:

According to a survey of teens and young adults conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, many young Americans consider a high school diploma enough to attain success in their chosen careers .  The findings are alarming some experts, especially those who believe that college will pay off in the long run.

However, there are careers that do not require a standard four-year college education but do involve vocational school or specialized training. Jobs such as real estate agents, fitness trainers, auto mechanics, and plumber are good examples. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in those industries, an apprenticeship or internship may be better than going to college.

But why do education experts believe that college pays off in the long run?

To put it simply, college grads enjoy economic advantages over Americans with less education. According to the Lumina Foundation, bachelor’s degree holders earn about $32,000 more than those who only hold a high school diploma.

Aside from having higher salaries, college graduates also have a competitive edge in the career market. In the economic times, we’re living today, finding jobs is not a guarantee. As a job seeker, you’re competing with a high number of experienced workers. Employers tend to value those who have completed college over those who only have a high school diploma. This means that college graduates are more likely to enjoy greater job security and increased life savings.

For many high school seniors, attending college right after graduation is a given. But transitioning to college immediately after high school isn’t the right choice for everyone. Some students take a year off after high school to work, travel, or volunteer and they end up returning to school more mature than their peers. Having some “real world” experience helps them take better advantage of their college education because they already know what to expect.

Taking time off also gives undecided students some time to truly think about the career path they want to pursue. There are students who leave high school without a firm idea of what they want to do with their lives, and it may take some real-life experience to help shape their decision.

However, going to college right after high school does have significant benefits. For instance, the earlier you attend, the earlier you can apply for high-paying jobs in the future. You won’t lose the momentum that 12 or 13 consecutive years of learning have built up. If you wait, it can be harder to get back in the swing of things or you might not go to college at all.

All in all, it boils down to your personal decision. You know yourself better than anyone so whatever you decide, what matters is that you do it for the betterment of your future.

As mentioned before, graduates who have higher education tend to have more job opportunities than those who don’t further their education after high school. But it doesn’t at obtaining a college degree. According to a study conducted by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics , the earnings or salary of an individual increase each time they achieve a higher level of education.

Average earnings include:

  • No high school diploma: $520 per week with an unemployment rate of 6.5%
  • High school diploma, no college: $712 per week with an unemployment rate of 4.6%
  • Attended college, no degree: $774 per week with an employment rate of 96%
  • Associate degree: $836 per week with an employment rate of 96.6%
  • Bachelor’s degree: $1,173 per week with an employment rate of 97.5%
  • Master’s degree: $1,401 per week with an employment rate of 97.8%
  • Doctoral degree: $1,743 per week with an employment rate of 98.5%
  • Professional degree: $1,836 per week with an employment rate of 98.5%

If you do the math, a doctoral degree could earn you $6,972 per month, while a professional degree could land you a $7,344 monthly salary.

As you can see, in our economy today, it’s no longer enough to have a high school diploma. Yes, investing in higher education is a huge commitment of time and money, but you can think of it as a down payment on your future. There’s a lot of hard work involved, but you’re preparing yourself for a challenging and rewarding career that leads to financial security and fulfilling life.

About the Author

Emily summers.

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Many Young People Think a High School Diploma Is Enough, Poll Finds

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Two new polls show that Americans—particularly young Americans—don’t see a college degree as crucial to their career success, yet one more sign that people are questioning whether higher education is worth the debt that typically comes with it.

One poll found that nearly half of young people ages 13 to 29 think a high school diploma alone is sufficient to thrive in the workplace.

“That’s a striking number of young people who think a high school diploma is enough. [That belief] is just incorrect, and it really worries me,” said Harry J. Holzer, a Georgetown University economist and public policy professor who studies the kinds of education various jobs require.

Believing a high school diploma alone leads to good jobs flies in the face of research showing that increasingly, jobs in the modern economy demand some kind of training or education after high school. Young people can aspire to a vast sector of “middle skill” jobs that pay well and don’t require four-year degrees, but in general, bachelor’s degrees still produce much higher lifetime earnings.

Soul searching about higher education is widespread, though, fueled by concern about its price tag and questions about its necessity in a rapidly evolving job market that is challenging the relevance of a traditional college education. Those doubts came through clearly in the two sets of poll results.

A Harris poll released Thursday asked 2,015 adults what kinds of training or education they consider “absolutely essential,” and of five options, a college degree came in third. “Soft skills” topped the list, with 37 percent, followed by job preparation, with 36 percent.

Only 23 percent said a college degree is “absolutely essential.” Adding the responses of those who think college degrees are “very important” brought the total to 54 percent.

Having earned a degree didn’t change people’s views. Only 28 percent of the respondents who were college graduates said they consider a college degree “absolutely essential.” The poll didn’t make a distinction between two- and four-year degrees.

Attitudes toward a college degree varied by age group. Sixty percent of respondents 65 or older said a bachelor’s degree was essential or very important, compared with 52 percent of those 18 to 34.

Adrienne Diercks, the founder of Project Success, a group that works with Minneapolis schools to help students “connect to their purpose” through enrichment activities and goal-setting, and that commissioned the Harris poll, said the results argue for carefully tailoring post-high school planning to each student’s aspirations instead of urging them all to attend four-year colleges.

Is High School Enough?

A poll released earlier this week by the Associated Press and the NORC Center for Public Affairs Research at the University of Chicago found mixed views among nearly 2,600 young people about the value of higher education.

Pollsters asked 13- to 29-year-olds how well various types of education “prepare someone for success in today’s economy.” Sixty percent said a bachelor’s degree or vocational school were good forms of preparation, and 73 percent gave the nod to on-the-job experience. And 45 percent said that a high school diploma is a solid road to success.

Stephanie Brazinsky, a counselor at South High School in Denver, said the results surprised her.

“I don’t get the sense from my students that [they think] high school is enough,” she said. “Almost all of them believe some type of postsecondary is necessary.”

The youngest respondents in the AP-NORC poll, 13 to 17 years old, were more likely than those 18 to 29 to say high school was sufficient preparation for success. Responses varied by race, too. More than half of African-American and Hispanic respondents said a high school diploma is good preparation for success, compared with 4 in 10 white respondents.

Research shows that there are many good-paying jobs that don’t require a bachelor’s degree. Holzer’s work tracks the expansion of “middle-skill” jobs , and many pay well, but they generally require more than a high school diploma. Most require training or certification, or an associate degree.

Careful Counseling Needed

Holzer said he worries that young people might hear about jobs that don’t require four-year degrees and think they can start careers right after high school.

“Young people are notoriously under-counseled” in high school and community college, he said. They need adults who are knowledgeable about which jobs are in demand, what they pay, and what kinds of education or training they require, he said.

Students need wise counseling on their choice of college major, too, since that choice can have a huge impact on their earnings. The difference between the lowest-paying majors, like social work or early childhood education, and the highest-paying, petroleum engineering, can total $3.4 million over a lifetime , one study found.

Brazinsky, whose school serves a wide variety of affluent and working-class, American-born, and immigrant students, said she notices that students—and their counselors—are discussing educational options that stop short of a bachelor’s degree more now than they did five or 10 years ago.

“It definitely feels like there is a trend that we don’t necessarily push all our kids toward four-year college, that it isn’t the answer for everyone, because of the expense, and because not everyone’s career goals necessarily require it,” she said. “A lot of students might want to get a technical degree or certificate.”

It’s impossible for a counselor to stay abreast of the complexity of the changing labor market in order to advise students in detail on which jobs are in demand, and what their salaries and educational requirements are, Brazinsky said. The trick, she said, is to be skilled in knowing where to find the information students ask for.

The Colorado Department of Education has begun posting labor-market information that can help counselors advise students, she said.

How Will I Afford College?

The AP-NORC poll showed that young people are deeply worried about the cost of higher education, a factor that could be influencing their thinking on college degrees. More than three-quarters said college affordability is a “very serious or extremely serious” problem. Forty-seven percent are worried about student-loan debt. Those who haven’t reached college yet are the most worried: 55 percent of the respondents 13 to 17 years old and 45 percent of young adults said they’re worried about that debt.

That could be one reason why only 32 percent of the young people in the AP-NORC poll said that the advantages of higher education outweigh the disadvantages. Forty-five percent said the pros and cons were equal and 22 percent said college’s benefits outweigh its drawbacks.

Todd Hicks, a counselor at Cristo Rey San José Jesuit High School in San Jose, Calif., one in a network of 37 college-prep high schools that serve low-income students, said a crucial part of students’ education is financial literacy pegged to college.

“We talk about the salary difference a college degree can add to just a high school diploma,” he said. “We have the expectation that our students are going to take out federal loans if they’re eligible, and that they’re going to do work-study. We talk about loan repayments, and what a reasonable level of debt is.”

The Harris and AP-NORC poll results echo earlier studies. A 2017 poll by NBC and the Wall Street Journal found that only 49 percent of adults thought a four-year degree is worth the cost. A study by Public Agenda in 2016 found that Americans increasingly think that good jobs don’t necessarily require college degrees.

Michelle Asha Cooper leads a group that’s taking the pulse of those national doubts. Dubbed the Value Commission , it’s a convening of experts who are examining the costs and payoffs of higher education.

Families are concerned about affordability and student loan debt, said Cooper, who is also the president of the Institute for Higher Education Policy. People who’ve earned college degrees can still find it hard to get good jobs and end up “wondering if college did enough to prepare them for the world of work,” Cooper said.

Young people like those in the AP-NORC poll could well be influenced by stories they hear about people they know who are struggling with student loan debt, and wonder if they should take on those burdens, Cooper said.

The commission aims to define the ways various kinds of postsecondary education pay off, to help students and families evaluate their choices. The panel hopes to produce that framework next fall, Cooper said.

A version of this article appeared in the November 27, 2019 edition of Education Week as For Many Young People, H.S. Diploma Enough for Success

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High School Essay Examples

Unique opportunities and challenges during high school.

High school is a pivotal period in the lives of young individuals, marked by both unique opportunities and challenges that shape their personal and academic development. It is a time of self-discovery, academic growth, and the formation of lifelong friendships. This essay explores the distinctive...

My High School Experience: the Influence of a Special Person

My timid freshman-year-self walked into my counselor’s office with tremendous fear. I was too shy to talk to my guidance counselor throughout my first year at the high school, so I had no idea what to expect. As I entered the office, I saw a friendly...

The Value of a High School Diploma

Obtaining a high school diploma is not merely a ceremony marking the end of secondary education; it represents a significant milestone in one's educational journey and holds profound implications for personal growth, access to higher education, and career opportunities. This essay delves deeper into the...

Unforgettable Life-lessons During Highschool

In this paper I am going to share some stories that I had during the high school period and what lessons they have taught me. Throughout my high school experience, my family’s financial situation has been the one to shape me into the person I...

High School Dropout: How I Escaped from This

It is said that every year around 1.2 million students drop out of high school. The United States had some of the highest graduation ranks for developed countries, but it is now placed at 22 out of 27 on the list. Every 26 seconds or...

Personal Reflection About Senior High School Journey

“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” -Lao Tzu I am a student at Camarines Norte Senior High School taking up a Science Technology Engineering Mathematics (STEM) strand. As a Senior High School student, it was a great privilege and one...

High School Vs College: a Compare and Contrast

High school and college are two distinct phases in a student's academic journey. While both serve as crucial stepping stones towards higher education and future careers, they differ significantly in terms of structure, curriculum, social life, and overall experience. In this essay, we will compare...

When I Graduate from a High School: Reflections on Graduation

To start with, this is one of the "When I graduate from high school essays" as I have just ended my study and there were lots of confused feelings about this experience that I want to share. As I walked across the stage to receive...

Media Surrounding of Stoneman Douglas High School Shooting

It was February 14th 2018 valentine’s day, a day of a huge massacre that took place in Parkland, Florida. Students between the ages of 15-18 waking up and getting ready to go to school not knowing what they are about to face that day. Some...

The Effects of the Columbine High School Shooting on America

On April 20, 1999, two armed students entered Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado and fixed their aim on their classmates and faculty. Less than an hour later, those two students, Dylan Klebold and Eric Harris, had murdered 12 students and one teacher and wounded...

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About High School

High school is a kind of school, a place where people go to learn skills for use in life. In a three-part system such as in the United States, children go to high school after middle school ("junior high"). In a two-party system such as in the United Kingdom, the change is from primary school to secondary school at 11 years of age. There are public high schools and private high schools in the United States and many other countries.

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