Dropping out of high school can have a significant impact on a person’s life.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: dropping out of high school can result in limited job opportunities, lower wages, and a higher likelihood of poverty and incarceration.
In this article, we’ll explore the consequences of dropping out of high school and what options are available for those who have already left school early.
Limited Job Opportunities
Dropping out of high school can severely limit job opportunities in the future.
Lower Employment Rates
According to National Center for Education Statistics, high school dropouts have higher unemployment rates compared to those who have completed high school. In fact, the unemployment rate for high school dropouts was 5.3% in 2019, compared to 3.7% for high school graduates and 2.2% for those with a bachelor’s degree. This means that dropping out of high school can make it harder to find a job and maintain a steady employment.
Fewer Career Options
Dropping out of high school can also limit the number of career opportunities available to an individual. Many jobs require a high school diploma as a minimum education requirement, and without one, an individual may not qualify for certain positions. This can make it harder to find a job that pays well and offers opportunities for advancement.
Difficulty Advancing in the Workplace
Even if an individual is able to find a job without a high school diploma, they may find it difficult to advance in their career without further education. Many employers require their employees to have a certain level of education or training to be promoted to higher positions. Without a high school diploma, an individual may be stuck in an entry-level position with limited opportunities for advancement.
Lower Wages
One of the most significant effects of dropping out of high school is the lower earning potential compared to those who graduate. This is due to several factors that limit job opportunities and the ability to negotiate higher wages.
Comparative Earning Potential
On average, high school graduates earn significantly more than dropouts. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2020, the median weekly earnings for high school graduates were $746, while those without a high school diploma earned only $592. This means that high school graduates earn 26% more than dropouts.
Limited Access to Higher-Paying Jobs
Individuals who drop out of high school often have limited access to higher-paying jobs. Many employers require a high school diploma as a minimum educational requirement for entry-level positions. Without a diploma, the job options are limited, and individuals are often left with lower-paying jobs.
Furthermore, some industries require a higher level of education or specialized training, such as healthcare, information technology, or finance. Without a high school diploma, individuals are not eligible to pursue these careers, limiting their earning potential.
Higher Likelihood of Minimum Wage Work
Individuals who drop out of high school are more likely to work in minimum wage jobs. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2018, 26% of dropouts were employed in service jobs, such as food preparation and serving, which typically pay minimum wage or close to it. This is compared to 16% of high school graduates who work in service jobs.
Moreover, without a high school diploma, individuals may not have the skills or experience necessary to negotiate higher wages or better working conditions. This can lead to a cycle of low-paying jobs and financial insecurity.
Increased Likelihood of Poverty
Choosing to drop out of high school can have significant negative consequences on a person’s financial future. The decision to leave school early can lead to higher poverty rates, limited access to financial resources, and difficulty meeting basic needs.
Higher Poverty Rates Among Dropouts
Individuals who drop out of high school are more likely to live in poverty than those who graduate. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, in 2019, the poverty rate for individuals without a high school diploma was 19.6%, compared to 6.5% for those with a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Furthermore, dropouts may also face difficulty finding stable employment with a livable wage, which can contribute to their increased likelihood of living in poverty.
Limited Access to Financial Resources
Without a high school diploma, an individual’s access to financial resources may be limited. Many job opportunities require a high school education as a minimum qualification, which can make it difficult for dropouts to secure well-paying jobs.
Additionally, dropouts may have limited access to financial aid for further education or training, which can limit their ability to pursue higher-paying careers and improve their financial situation.
Difficulty Meeting Basic Needs
Living in poverty can make it challenging to meet basic needs such as food, housing, and healthcare. Dropouts may struggle to afford these necessities, which can lead to increased stress and negatively impact their overall well-being.
Moreover, individuals without a high school diploma may also face challenges in accessing social services that could provide assistance with these basic needs.
Higher Likelihood of Incarceration
Education is an essential factor that influences an individual’s life, and dropping out of high school can significantly impact one’s future. Unfortunately, one of the most significant consequences of dropping out of high school is a higher likelihood of incarceration.
Correlation Between Dropping Out and Incarceration
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, students who drop out of high school are more likely to end up in jail or prison. In fact, about 68% of state prison inmates did not complete high school, and 70% of inmates in federal prisons did not graduate from high school.
Research shows that there is a strong correlation between dropping out of high school and incarceration. This correlation can be attributed to various factors, including poverty, lack of education, and limited job opportunities.
Greater Risk of Criminal Behavior
Dropping out of high school increases the risk of engaging in criminal behavior. Individuals who do not complete high school are more likely to engage in illegal activities, such as drug use, theft, and violence. These activities can lead to arrest, conviction, and incarceration.
Furthermore, individuals who drop out of high school have limited access to job opportunities, which can lead them to engage in criminal behavior to make ends meet.
Limited Access to Rehabilitation Programs
Individuals who are incarcerated often have limited access to rehabilitation programs. Unfortunately, this lack of access to rehabilitation programs can further perpetuate the cycle of criminal behavior and incarceration.
Studies have shown that education and vocational training programs can help reduce recidivism rates. However, individuals who drop out of high school and end up in prison may not have access to these programs, making it harder for them to reintegrate into society once they are released.
It is crucial to understand the consequences of dropping out of high school, including the higher likelihood of incarceration. By investing in education and providing access to rehabilitation programs, we can help break the cycle of criminal behavior and reduce incarceration rates.
Options for Those Who Have Dropped Out
Leaving high school before graduation can lead to limited job prospects and lower earning potential. However, there are still options available for those who have dropped out.
GED Programs
One option is to earn a General Education Development (GED) certificate, which is equivalent to a high school diploma. GED programs are offered by many community colleges and adult education centers. The GED test covers math, science, social studies, and reading and writing skills. With a GED certificate, individuals can qualify for jobs that require a high school diploma and may also be able to enroll in college or vocational training programs.
Vocational Training Programs
Vocational training programs offer hands-on training for specific careers, such as plumbing, electrician, or cosmetology. These programs can be completed in less time than a traditional college degree and often lead to high-paying jobs. Many vocational training programs do not require a high school diploma, but some may require a GED.
Community College
Community colleges offer affordable tuition and a variety of programs for students who did not finish high school. Most community colleges have open enrollment policies, which means that anyone can enroll regardless of their educational background. With a community college degree, individuals can qualify for better-paying jobs and may also be able to transfer to a four-year university to further their education.
Online Learning Opportunities
Online learning opportunities have become increasingly popular in recent years. Many universities and community colleges offer online courses and degree programs, which can be completed from anywhere with an internet connection. Online learning can be a good option for those who need flexibility in their education, including those who dropped out of high school.
| Option | Requirements | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| GED Programs | Pass GED test | Earn equivalent of high school diploma, qualify for jobs requiring high school diploma, may enroll in college | May take time and effort to prepare for GED test |
| Vocational Training Programs | Varies by program, may not require high school diploma | Hands-on training for specific careers, often lead to high-paying jobs | May require physical demands or working in potentially hazardous conditions |
| Community College | Open enrollment, may require GED | Affordable tuition, variety of programs, transfer to four-year university | May take time to complete degree, may require additional education for desired career |
| Online Learning Opportunities | Varies by program | Flexibility, can be completed from anywhere with internet connection | May require self-discipline and time management skills |
Conclusion
Dropping out of high school can have a serious impact on a person’s life, limiting job opportunities, lowering wages, and increasing the likelihood of poverty and incarceration.
However, it’s important to note that there are options available for those who have already left school early. GED programs, vocational training, community colleges, and online learning opportunities can all provide educational pathways to success.
By understanding the consequences of dropping out and exploring alternative options, individuals can make informed decisions about their future and work towards achieving their goals.
