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Investment. That word tends to automatically lead people to think money, as in investing for their retirement. But this concept also applies personally. People should invest in themselves, and I am not talking money. Education is an investment in yourself. The Roman ruler Marcus Aurelius was an avid learner. Throughout his life the most powerful man in the world continued to “pick up his books” and attend classes in various areas of study. He once said “learning is a good thing, even for one who is growing old. From Sextus the philosopher I shall learn what I do not yet know.”
The Oklahoma Regents for Higher Education know investment in our colleges and the people of our state is literally investing in everyone’s future. Each year the regents request additional funding above normal allocations, and for 2025 it was approved at an additional 12.5%. These funds will be used to re-engage adult learners, including additional scholarships for adult students nearing completion of a college degree. Some of the funding is for the Reach Higher program to help students who have some college credits but not a degree. The state can help you finish.
There are some who have never considered earning a degree as the cost may seem prohibitive. In reality, it is not. Our Oklahoma public colleges and universities are one of the most affordable with the 8th lowest cost of attendance in the country. More than 60% of Oklahoma first-time, full-time students have no federal student loans when they graduate. And for those who do hold loans, balances average under $15,000.
There is a reason STEM graduates are being pushed: over 60% of the jobs in our state’s future require these degrees. But look at the skills this education helps you “bring to the table” with a future employer: critical thinking, communication and resilience. However, a humanities and arts education has tremendous value as well because it cultivates essential skills and traits like problem-solving, adaptability, creativity, professional writing and public speaking. What this means is, no matter what degree you pursue, there is high value to employers. Which means you personally have high value.
There is an old question, which came first: the chicken or the egg? Well, in the case of attracting high-wage employers to our state, we must have the educated workforce ready to be hired. A degree helps you, our city and our state. You will benefit financially as well as personally from the effort.
Another great Roman, Seneca, said “there is no one more foolish than one who stops learning. Even if you are one of the best at what you do, you should keep learning…to the end of your life.” Bottom line- you can’t afford to NOT go to college. And when you are ready, please visit the University Center in Ponca City. They are ready to help you reach your potential.
At the University Center, our commitment is to develop high levels of quality relationships with our students. Our support staff works tirelessly to make sure that student needs are met and that our professors have the tools necessary to provide a high-quality education.
We hope you will stop by the University Center and speak with us about the opportunities available to you. We have a dedicated staff ready to provide you with the tools to start your journey to earn a degree in higher education. The University Center is committed to bringing degree programs to Ponca City that our students need to be effective in a global economy. We have a strong desire to see each of our students succeed and be ready to make a positive economic impact in our region.
We encourage you to begin today, and let us be the first to say, “Welcome to your future.” Please enjoy your visit to the University Center at Ponca City. To find out more about our programs, visit us online at www.ucponcacity.com
