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The answer to this question can apply to all levels of schooling, not just college. Some will argue that where you go to elementary school could ultimately impact your position as a working professional. For example, if you attend private school, where you go to elementary school can in turn affect where you go to high school, which can affect where you go to college. In private schools, application processes begin as a kindergartener, and getting into a premier elementary school can affect the subsequent schools you attend. Finally, where you go to college can also affect where you find your first job. All of that being said, how much does where you go to elementary school, high school, and college really affect the outcome of your life? My answer is that as long as you have a college degree and a strong work ethic, the outcome of your professional career will ultimately end up the same regardless of your educational background.
Often, an inordinate amount of importance is placed on where you go to school as being a significant factor in helping you get to the next level, whether it is high school, college, or a job. While there are advantages to going to an elite private high school or an Ivy League college, it is not the sole, determining factor of your ability to advance to the next level of your educational or professional life. Succeeding in whatever setting you find yourself is far more influential in determining your advancement throughout the stages of life.
Courtesy of Flickr: Engineers Austrialia’s Photostream
The single most important quality that will affect your overall success as a student and working professional is you work ethic. If you are a hard working person, regardless of the schools you attend or the jobs you have, you will succeed. Admissions directors and employers will recognize your hard work, which will show itself in the grades and performance scores you receive.
Courtesy of Flickr: Anikarenina’s Photostream
When advancing to any stage of life, showcasing your strengths and talents will help you succeed and overcome any disadvantages you may have based on where you went to school. Those who are the best at what they tend to succeed throughout their lives. If you can market yourself as successful and showcase your strengths, you will advance. These qualities will overpower any disadvantages potentially associated with where you attend school.
In conclusion, there is always an element of luck involved in getting into a school or getting a job. Unfortunately, this is beyond your control, but you can control your drive and work ethic. So, work hard, and make sure to put your strongest qualities on display!
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