College Vs. Job | Video

Alex Hagan | 9/11/2012

High School students all around the country are always faced with the tough task of what to do after graduating. Some go to college while others get a job. However, with the poor economy everywhere else, staying in school seems like the right choice. But in North Dakota, there are a lot of jobs available with good salaries

Students from the southwest part of the state took part in a college readiness seminar to talk about life after high school and for some juniors and seniors, the decision is a tough one.

"I`m just not sure what I want to do with my future. I guess just stay at home and work or if I should go to college or what," said senior Ty Sime.

North Dakota has the lowest unemployment rate in the country and with so many jobs, some students say skipping college is the way to go.

"The economy today in western North dakota, you can make a lot more money by going out and working instead of spending a bunch of money and then going and paying your loans off," said senior Matt Morman.

High School Counselors say the amount of students looking for jobs after high school has not changed since before the oil boom.

"There`s still kids who want all other kinds of jobs and the money, it`s there right now but there`s no guarantee it`s going to be there for a long time," said Beach High School Counselor Leanne Benes.

However, more students are finding themselves interested in oil field jobs and have decided to pursue one or two year degrees instead.

"Kids are clear on their work skills knowing that they have to have something that makes someone hire them rather than having a lot of general education," said Glen Ullin High School Counselor Leah Dockter.

And most students believe getting a degree will result in more money despite the opportunities out there.

"Instead of going straight into the oil fields, I think you`re going to be able to get a degree and it`s really going to provide you with a more stable career," said senior Ryan Kobilanksy.

The money is out there in the oil patch, however, most students believe a degree is the answer for success.

Students at the seminar today in Dickinson learned about the transition to college as well as financial opportunities for higher education.

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