Top educators met on Capitol Hill recently to discuss increasing the percentage of young people who earn a degree from 40% to 55% by 2025. The goal was driven by the Commission on Access, Admissions and Success in Higher Education report, which documents that a college degree is vital not only to individual success and income potential, but for the growth of our nation. The group, which is sponsored by The College Board, is currently proposing recommendations and will be requesting federal funding from President-elect Barack Obama.

This is a great initiative, of course, but as we know, such campaigns take time to get off the ground. Not to mention that it’s geared toward the next generation of students, so efforts will begin at the preschool level. We can still pick up a lesson from the news, however; educating yourself at any age can not only do wonders for your own personal success, but for the country’s overall well-being. Consider it your patriotic duty to head back to the classroom!

if you’re thinking of enrolling in a program, keep in mind this first basic rule: Degree/program completion starts with making the right school choice! That’s why it’s so important for students to do their homework when it comes to college research.

Here’s how to get started…

- Finding a school that matches your academic interests, location preferences, and learning style is key to having a great experience and completing your degree.

- Be open-minded to a variety of different colleges beyond ones on those “Top 10″ lists. Many lesser-known institutions or community colleges provide top-notch educational opportunities -– you just have to seek them out.

- Be sure to consider an institution’s extras, such as free academic support, on-campus activities, and career services. Taking advantage of these offerings can help students ride out tough semesters and avoid dropping out. Connect directly with colleges and universities, so that you may ask those important questions and learn more about your choice schools before you sign your tuition checks.

- Remember, traditional colleges and universities are simply not for everyone. Despite the Commission’s efforts, some people are better suited to work in a trade. Career schools that are focused on honing skills for work in a specific industry can prepare students with specialized training for a variety of lucrative careers.

- Once you choose a couple of potential programs of study, figure out what’s standing in your way (finances, fear of returning to the classroom, time constraints, etc.), and start removing the obstacles one by one. For instance, financial aid programs are available for both traditional and nontraditional students; and online learning can make it possible for learners to find the time to “go” to class. In short, if you want to school badly enough, you can find a way.

What’s your biggest obstacle to education?