The question of access, cost, and the benefits of higher education for felons has left many at the crossroad. While most offenders yearn for a college education, they are worried about its accessibility, cost, and benefits.
Realistically, it is unthinkable how having wasted a few years serving your time, you will invest more time in a non-beneficial venture. For that reason, felons are skeptical about pursuing a college education for fear of wasting more time. This article explores the seven reasons why offenders should consider undertaking higher education.
Economic benefits of higher education for felons
A conviction of a felony lowers your chances of employment and access to better pay. In addition, there is a huge wage disparity between those with and without a college education. However, studies have shown that pursuing higher education enhances your employability and boosts the chances of a better wage. Moreover, jobs for higher education holders come with medical cover, life assurance, and other benefits.
Personal growth and development
Even when you have no interest in employment, higher education is helpful in self-growth and development. In college/university, you will learn to organize your time, relate with other people, and socialize. By the time you graduate, you will have acquired:
Communication skills
At the college level, you have to complete writing assignments as well as presentation tasks. Such assignments boost your written and verbal communication skills.
Problem-solving skills
Higher education involves more than just attending classes and acquiring a degree certificate. It entails learning how to examine, analyze, question, reflect, and critically think. As a result, you will develop problem-solving skills.
Self-discipline
Institutions of higher learning leave the duty of time management, control, and organization to the learners. That strive to be responsible, strike a balance between leisure, class, and time to work (where applicable) makes you attain a sense of self-discipline.
Technological benefits of higher education for felons
Over the year, the job market has always been dynamic. In fact, most jobs have been taken by automation through artificial intelligence. Pursuing higher education equips felons with in-demand technological knowledge. Indeed, higher education helps felons remain competitive in the changing job market.
Community involvement
Institutions of higher learning teach students to tackle issues across the board. In addition, higher education equips learners with knowledge, skills, and information. Hence, acquiring post-secondary education enables felons to have the skills, information, and knowledge necessary to solve societal problems. Thus, at least felons can offer something to the community.
Chasing your dreams/passion
A felony conviction does not completely bar you from chasing your dreams and passion. You can still enroll in college education and pursue your dreams if you are passionate about education.
In conclusion
As shown above, higher education has numerous benefits for felons. First, it is a way to keep in pace with the changing global trends. Second, higher education enables offenders to negotiate better pay and acquire some employment benefits that they couldn’t enjoy. Thus, felons should pursue college education whenever they have the opportunity.
