BEAT THE STATISTICS WITH A DREAM JOB

For non-college graduates, the numbers are grim. Statistics show college graduates take home an average annual salary of $45,678, while high school graduates earn an average salary of only $24.572. A bachelor’s degree recipient from an accredited college will earn at least $1 million more over his lifetime than a high school graduate. But the trends can be beaten.
There are a number of careers that require only a high school diploma or GED and that offer earning potential much higher than the average, says Jason R. Rich, author of <a href="http://www.entrepreneurpress.com/cgi-bin/books/00233.html">202 High-Paying Jobs You Can Land Without a College Degree.</a>
“Obtaining a college education is not critical for achieving long-term success,” Rich claims. After all, even Bill Gates, Michael Dell and Ted Turner never graduated from college. And though chances of starting the next Microsoft are slim, the chances of finding a fulfilling, lucrative career aren’t.
Some of Rich’s top suggestions include law enforcement, butcher, computer game tester, dental hygienist, electrician, car salesperson, court reporter, event coordinator and casino dealer.
High-paying jobs exist in all industries—arts and entertainment, manual labor, instruction, service, finance, high-tech, sales and more. Some require nothing more than a high school diploma; others require some additional training—but far less than a four-year degree.
Rich lists 202 opportunities—with information on how to get hired, what training is required, and salary potential—in his new book, 202 High-Paying Jobs You Can Land Without a College Degree.

Jason R. Rich is the bestselling author of more than 30 books, including Job Hunting for the Utterly Confused and the officially licensed books for seasons three and four of American Idol®. He was the “Careers” columnist for The Boston Herald.