Utah’s college presidents are unanimous in their assertion that higher education is a valuable investment in one’s future. But what do the people who have actually gone through the system have to say? We spoke to graduates and former students to get their take on the value of higher education in Utah.
For many, the benefits of higher education are clear. “My degree opened doors for me that I never thought possible,” says Emily Johnson, a University of Utah alumna who now works as a marketing manager. “I was able to secure a high-paying job right out of college, and I’ve been able to advance my career quickly.” Johnson credits her education with giving her the skills and confidence she needed to succeed in her field.
Others point to the personal growth and development that comes with pursuing higher education. “College was a transformative experience for me,” says David Lee, a former student at Utah State University. “I learned how to think critically, solve problems, and work with others. These skills have served me well in all areas of my life, not just my career.”
However, not everyone agrees that higher education is a great value. Some graduates and former students express frustration with the cost of tuition and the burden of student loans. “I feel like I’m still paying for a degree that didn’t really prepare me for the workforce,” says Sarah Taylor, a former student at Weber State University. “I wish I had been more careful about choosing a major that would lead to a well-paying job.”
Despite these concerns, the overwhelming majority of graduates and former students agree that higher education is a valuable investment. “It’s not just about the degree – it’s about the experiences, the connections, and the personal growth,” says Johnson. Utah’s college presidents are right: higher education is a great value, and it’s an investment that can pay off for a lifetime.
