Why we’re #ProudToBeABobcat, and you should be, too

Going to school is an undertaking unlike any other, but you already know that. Between figuring out what you want to study, which classes to take, what are the best steps to getting your career started, it’s a lot. And the challenges compound if you’re a returning student or a parent (or both!). You’re probably thinking, “Then why am I doing this again?” 

The most important reason to stand tall as a Bryant & Stratton College student is the one you already know: You’re bettering yourself. People with degrees generally outearn those without. And not by an insignificant sum. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2018, bachelor’s degree holders made a median of $934 more a week than their nondegreed counterparts. It’s also easier to earn promotions or switch roles when you have a degree. That, along with the fact that you’re learning new skills and setting your family up for a better future, shows that getting a degree is a long game worth playing. Behind those reasons to feel pride is another less obvious one: Not everyone is able to make going to school and bettering their lives a possibility. You did. That says something about you. You should also be proud of how you’re going to college. You’re not taking the “traditional” college route. You’re getting an education while you’re working and caring for a family. These aren’t easy things to balance. But they set you apart and give you a unique perspective that’s invaluable to employers. More than ever, the job market is in need of diverse talent and ideas, which means you’re going to school at just the right time. And know this:  You’re not alone. As it turns out, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, 40% of undergraduate students are over 25; 25% are caring for a child; and 47% of students go to school part time at some point while earning their degrees. While there are many reasons why students (from taking care of an ailing parent to being a vet) are taking the nontraditional route, one thing is true, according to researchers on the subject: nontraditional is becoming the new norm in higher education.

At Bryant & Stratton College, we love to see it. That’s why we offer tons of resources to help our students find their footing, no matter their backgrounds. Bryant & Stratton has teams dedicated to helping students at every stage in their college careers. Whether you’re an incoming student or on your way out, Bryant & Stratton has you covered, from course advice to financial services. And even when you’ve finished, you’ll still have access to services to help you navigate post-college life as you search for the right job for you. Bryant & Stratton is a special club that once you join, you’ll always be a member.

Maximize your experience by participating in internships, taking advantage of career prep services like interview prep and resume reviews, and tapping into alumni networks. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and ask for guidance when you need it. We’re not just a school. We’re a community with the goal of making sure students are getting what they need out of their degrees. Be proud to be a part of that. 

If you’re at Bryant & Stratton, you’re on your own path. As you walk it, walk tall. That’s what being #ProudToBeABobcat is all about.