Higher Education Benefits Measured Beyond Earnings

(Costa Mesa, Calif.) – People would attend college if they knew it wouldn’t just improve their future salaries and job search but it also makes them healthier.

Individuals who have completed postsecondary education have a more positive connection than those who have not. Courtney Brown, the Lumina Foundation’s vice president of impact and planning, noted, “The more education you have, the better life, better job that you’re likely to have.”

A poll was conducted to rate the respondent’s health as excellent or very good. The data does show that those with postsecondary education show better personal fitness.

Many are unable to continue a higher education due to its rising cost. Yet, researchers at Lumina and Gallup expect to draw attention to the benefits of postsecondary education. The chart below shows people with no postsecondary education claim to have 42% excellent/very good health. Those with a graduate degree seem to be around 65% in excellent/very good health.

Individuals who attend an educational institution to receive a higher education say that they get asked for advice from those who don’t. It is also shown that individuals with a graduate degree tend to have better relationships with their family and are also more involved compared to those without.

Dr. Reid, a Vanguard University professor, remarked that her life would have been 1,000% different if she had not had a college degree. However, even agreeing that his life would have been different, Professor Nate from the department of theology claimed that he still thinks he would have continued to surf and preach as a pastor.

Dr. Reid commented, “Yes, in general I would say that there is a difference between myself and individuals I know who do not have a degree. I believe that if you’re willing to learn and reach high, a degree doesn’t matter. It’s what’s inside that matters most about people.”

Although some may be doubtful of education’s positive impact on overall well being, the Lumina Foundation hopes that showcasing other benefits that individuals can gain from receiving a post-secondary education will make attending any sort of institution more attractive.