If you're looking to improve your chances of starting a high-paying career, then don't underestimate the value of earning your degree. Studies show that people with college diplomas can earn quite a bit more than those without them. And, aside from the boost university diplomas can give to your resume and career prospects, choosing to attend college can be one of the most rewarding and enriching experiences of your life.

While a college diploma may not be absolutely necessary to get ahead, check out these big name celebs that took the time to earn their college diplomas. Even Lady O herself, OPRAH, has a college diploma verifying her talents in speech communication and the performing arts, which she earned at Tennessee State University (Nashville, TN). At the University of Texas at Austin, MATTHEW McCONAUGHEY finished off his college career with a degree in film. SAMUEL L. JACKSON studied architecture and drama at Morehouse College (Atlanta, GA), and graduated with his college diploma in 1972. Some other noteworthy individuals who earned their university diplomas are STEVEN SPIELBERG, DENZEL WASHINGTON, TAYE DIGGS, JODIE FOSTER, and MARTHA STEWART.

Fame and fortune may not be what you have in mind for the future, but there are still plenty of advantages to earning college diplomas. Having a university diploma says a lot about who you are, so it's also important that you don't just attend college for the sake of doing so. You want to make sure that the school you choose will provide you with the programs and coursework you need to get ahead, or that they at least have a good liberal arts program if you're not sure what you want to do yet.

What's the best way to go about choosing a school? Only you can decide, but make sure to do plenty of research so you can be certain that your diploma will mean something to you when all the other college diplomas are handed out on graduation day.