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To help boost the chances that you’ll get into the college of your dreams, it’s important to write a great college essay. The big question is, what should you write about?

When brainstorming ideas for topics, keep in mind that you want your college essay to make you look good and also help you stand out from other applicants. Toward that end, it helps to know what not to write about in a college essay.

Themes that consistently make the “worst college essay topics” list include cliches, stories that college admissions officers have read some version of countless times before, and any topic that reflects negatively on your personality.

Here’s a closer look at the college essay topics you’ll want to avoid, plus insights into the type of writing that can give you a leg up in the admissions process.

What Do Colleges Look for in Essays?

Colleges are looking for several things in your admissions essay. They want you to demonstrate strong writing, authenticity, and a unique perspective. Admissions officers are also looking to get a sense of who you are as an individual so they can better determine whether you’re a good fit for the rigors of academic life and school culture.

A good essay demonstrates this through vivid storytelling that illustrates your points rather than simply telling the reader what you want them to think and how you want them to feel.

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Why Should You Avoid Certain Topics for College Entrance Essays?

Generally, you want to avoid essay topics that could give admissions readers the wrong impression of who you are. It’s also wise to steer clear of essay topics that are cliches. A cliche is an idea (or phrase) that is overused and, as a result, has lost its meaning and potency. At best, cliche college essays can make you look unoriginal, and at worst they can make you look lazy.

Rather than lean on cliches, you’ll want to dig deep into what makes you and your thoughts original. Ideally, you want to choose an essay topic that demonstrates vulnerability and reveals your unique perspective and voice.

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College Essay Topics to Avoid

What follows are some topics you may want to avoid when choosing what to write about in your college essay.

Restating Your Resume

Your college application already includes school transcripts and information about your activities and awards. Rehashing this information is unlikely to translate into a compelling narrative, and it doesn’t teach college admissions officers anything new about you.

If you want to write about a specific extracurricular activity, consider choosing just one, and exploring it in depth to give your reader a better sense of who you are as a person.

Sports Challenges

Sports challenge stories tend to fall into the cliche category of college essay topics. They’re overused, and they tend to be predictable. For example, you may have scored a goal at the last moment, pulling ahead against all odds.

That’s not to say you can’t write about sports in your essay. Original and authentic sports stories that steer clear of cliches can be highly successful. For example, you could focus on how the skills you learned as part of a team translated to another unrelated challenge.

Your Big Performance

As with sports challenges, stories about big performances — music solos, starring roles in plays, speeches — often follow similar plots. The performance goes well, or poorly, and the writer discovers the value of preparation or how they had the inner strength to move past a major disappointment. However, you can use a performance story to tell an original and engaging tale.

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Your Hero

It may be tempting to write about a person who has inspired you. But college essays are short. And if you’re not careful, you may spend too much time writing about someone other than the person who should be the star of the essay — you. Remember admissions officers want to know what makes you stand out, not what makes your heroes special.

Romantic Heartbreak

Breaking up is hard to do — even more so when it’s young love. Yet the trials and tribulations of teen romance may not be the best topic for a college essay. Much like writing about your heroes, you may pay too much lip service to someone else, while neglecting to convey enough of your own story.

Illegal or Unethical Activities

If you’ve ever gotten tangled in ethically questionable or illegal activities, your college essay is generally not the right time to mention them, even if it makes for a great story. If you do, even in passing, admissions may worry about the types of behavior you’ll engage in once on campus.

Service Trips

A trip to help serve others in the U.S. or abroad might seem like a great topic for a college essay. Unfortunately, that means a lot of students write about these opportunities, making it one of the most common essay topics. What’s more, these essays tend to follow the same beats. As a result, choosing this topic doesn’t always help you stand apart from the crowd.

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Things That Happened Before High School

Writing about events that took place before high school may not give admissions a good sense of what you are like now. The kid who won a spelling bee in seventh grade may bear little resemblance to the high school senior applying for schools. Consider writing about recent events, or be careful to relate events from your past to high school and your current self.

Moving to a Different Part of the Country

Moving is always challenging. But countless students move across the country and switch schools each year. As a result, essays that focus on moves are relatively common. If you decide to write about a move, shift the focus of the essay to how it changed you as a person, pushing you to pursue new interests. It could work if it’s not a story college admissions officers haven’t heard many times before.

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Immigrant Stories

If you’ve moved from abroad, be aware that many students in the U.S. have immigrant stories. As a result, stories about making the move, struggling to learn new languages, and trying to fit into a new culture are common essay topics. If you choose to write about this topic, consider narrowing your focus on one aspect of your story that illustrates how you’ve grown and changed.

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How You Were Challenged by a Bad Grade

How you overcame a challenge is often one of the essay prompts on the Common App. You might think that writing about what you did after getting a low grade fits the bill, but it’s generally not a good idea to delve into this topic. For one, it highlights the fact that you got a bad grade to admissions’ officers. Another problem is that other applicants will likely have more serious hardships and challenges they have had to overcome, which could make your essay topic appear less consequential.

Tragedies

In and of themselves, tragedies are not necessarily a bad topic for college essays. However, it can be easy to fall into cliched writing as you tell these stories. Hackneyed themes and phrases include “life is short,” “time heals all wounds,” and “seize the day.” If you write about a tragedy you have known or experienced, be sure to make it personal, honest, and specific to you.

Sensitive Topics

Generally speaking, if a topic is one you would avoid bringing up at the holiday dinner table, you’ll likely want to avoid it in your essay as well. It can be tricky to discuss things like politics or religion in a way that is original and personal to your experience. What’s more, essays on these topics may trigger unconscious bias in the admissions staff reading your essay, which can color how they view you and your fit at the school.

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Your Privilege

If you’ve been lucky enough to grow up with a lot of resources at your disposal, discussing them may not be a strong strategy. It can make it seem like you haven’t had to work through any challenges. Instead you might consider essay topics that demonstrate vulnerability and grit in the face of adversity.

Attempts to Break the Essay Mold

You may be tempted to try to make yourself stand out with a creative essay that breaks traditional forms. For example, you might try to write a poem instead. You’re likely not the only one who has had this idea, and you may rob yourself of the chance to demonstrate your creativity through prose. The traditional essay is what admissions has asked for, and it may give you the most opportunity to demonstrate who you really are.


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The Takeaway

The best college essays tend to focus on specific moments when a student has learned something important, changed, and grown as a person. Ideally, you want your college essay to give readers a sense of your character, and how you may continue to change as you pursue your academic career. Avoiding cliches and other tricky topics can help you successfully reveal your true self.

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Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

What are the most common essay topics?

Some of the most common essay topics include:

•   A meaningful interest or talent

•   Something meaningful in your background/identity

•   Lessons you’ve learned from obstacles you’ve encountered

•   Times when your beliefs have been challenged

•   Something someone has done for you that’s made you grateful in a surprising way

What Do College Essays Look for?

Admissions offers are looking for essays that demonstrate strong writing skills, original thinking, and a unique perspective that sets you apart from other applicants.

How Much Does Your College Essay Matter?

Your college essay generally accounts for about 25% of your application. In terms of weight, it’s less important than your extracurriculars (30%) but more important than your grades and coursework (20%), test scores (15%), and recommendations/interviews (10%).

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Photo credit: iStock/Delmaine Donson

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Turn your passion for playing video games into a career by attending one of the top game design colleges in the country.

Game design is an in-demand industry, with new video games for gaming systems, tablets, and phones continually being developed and released. Here, we’re exploring 20 of the best gaming development programs you might want to consider.

What to Look for in a Game Design School

If you’re looking into colleges for video game design, you’ll quickly realize that not all programs are created equally. Some schools only offer a class or two in game design, while others go deep into the field, offering internships and hands-on experiences.

If you’re interested in attending a game design school, it’s important to research schools and programs prior to making your decision. Make sure to look into the specific type of degree you want (undergraduate degree or certificate, for example), the length and commitment of the program, what current and former students have to say about the program, the helpfulness of the faculty and staff, and more.

Luckily, we’ve done the work for you and have narrowed down the top colleges offering game design programs.

The Top 20 Best Colleges for Game Design

There are several video game design colleges and programs in the United States. Here, we’ve created a list starting with the most affordable game design colleges all the way up to those with higher tuition expenses.

1. Shawnee State University

Shawnee’s Game Design School has made it on The Princeton Review’s Top Undergraduate Schools for Game Design list for 13 consecutive years, and with such low tuition, it might be a great bargain. Located in Portsmouth, OH, you can elect to study Game Programming or Game & Simulation Arts.

•   1 year of tuition: In-state $9,621.52; Out-of-state $16,156

2. University of Silicon Valley

USV is available on-campus in the heart of Silicon Valley or 100% online. The university offers Bachelor of Arts degrees in both Game Design and Game Art, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Game Engineering. After graduating, students are qualified for roles including animator, modeler, game writer, computer programmer, and more.

•   1 year of tuition: $27,850 for both in-state and out-of-state students

3. Arizona State University

ASU’s Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies offers a concentration in Computer Gaming with three tracks to choose from: Programming, Art, or Education. Located in stunning Tempe, AZ, courses in the program include Introduction to Graphics and Game Development, Fundamentals of Game Art, Game Engine Architecture, and 3D Modeling and Texturing.

•   1 year of tuition: In-state $12,051; Out-of-state $32,193

4. University of Utah

The Utah Division of Games, located in Salt Lake City, is a college for game designing that combines art, humanities, social science, and computational research and practice to prepare students for careers in the field. Students can choose from multiple gaming bachelor’s degrees, a master’s degree, and even a minor in gaming. The Bachelor of Science in Games includes courses like Survey of Games, Ethics in Games, and Alternative Game Development.

•   1 year of tuition: In-state $9400; Out-of-state $31,104


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5. University of Southern California

USC’s Interactive Media & Games program offers three undergraduate options: a BFA in Themed Entertainment, a BFA in Game Development and Interaction, and a BFA in Game Art. Located in sunny Los Angeles, the program also offers four graduate degrees and nine minors.

•   1 year of tuition: $33,320 for both in-state and out-of-state students

6. Laguna College of Art and Design

Laguna College of Art and Design Game Art program, located in Laguna Beach, CA, prepares students for employment in any studio or software environment. Students learn the fundamentals of storytelling at every phase of the creation process, how to use a workflow methodology, and how to solve problems in concept challenges.

•   1 year of tuition: $37,500 for both in-state and out-of-state students

7. Full Sail University

Full Sail’s Interactive Technology Bachelor of Science Completion Program in Winter Park, FL offers a Game Design concentration that includes high-level game design and production courses that prepare students to work in game studios after graduation. Recognized as a Top Game Designs Schools by The Princeton Review, the program offers multiple start dates throughout the year and has an accelerated schedule for students looking to finish early.

•   1 year of tuition: $38,750 for both in-state and out-of-state students

8. Drexel University

Drexel University in Philadelphia offers a Bachelor of Science in Game Design & Production, and is recognized as one of the country’s top undergraduate game design programs. Students learn skills like scripting and storytelling, computer programming, computer graphics, animation, motion capture, and more.

•   1 year of tuition: $38,862 for both in-state and out-of-state students

9. Bradley University

Bradley University in Peoria, IL offers both a BA and a BS in Game Design. During your studies, you’ll have the opportunity to intern for a design company, participate in competitions, and show your work at an annual exhibit.

•   1 year of tuition: $39,248 for both in-state and out-of-state students

10. Savannah College of Art and Design

SCAD’s Interactive Design and Game Development degrees offer locations in Atlanta and Savannah, GA with the option to study abroad in Lacoste, France. Students can study at any of the three locations each semester, with the option to switch locations during their time in the program. Courses in the program include Digital Communication, Visual Culture in Context: Pre-Modern Global Perspectives, Aesthetics, and Core Principles: Game Art.

•   1 year of tuition: $41,130 for both in-state and out-of-state students

11. Michigan State University

MSU offers a Game Design and Development Program, a Top 10 Ranked program by The Princeton Review, that was founded in 2005. Students can choose from a Bachelor of Arts in Games and Interactive Media, a Minor in Game Design and Development, or a Serious Games Graduate Certificate. All students get the opportunity to design prototypes and conduct research on the effects of gaming.

•   1 year of tuition: In-state $16,051; Out-of-state $43,435

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12. University of California – Irvine

The Bachelor of Science degree in Game Design & Interactive Media at UC Irvine includes coursework in game programming, game design and development, visual design, interactive storytelling, data science, and game studies. Students graduate the program well-prepared for a career as a designer, developer, and industry leader. Students also get access to well-respected industry mentors.

•   1 year of tuition: In-state $17.205.74; Out-of-state $32,574

13. Champlain College

Champlain’s Bachelor of Science in Game Programming provides hands-on experience, with students collaborating to create and complete game projects. Located in gorgeous Burlington, VT, Champlain was named a “Most Innovative School” by U.S. News & World Report in 2022. Upon graduation, students are well-prepared to work in gaming studios.

•   1 year of tuition: $47,400

14. Quinnipiac University

Level up your creativity with Quinnipiac University’s Game Design & Development Program. Ranked as one of The Princeton Review’s Top Game Design Programs, students can choose a concentration to focus on, including programming, technology, design process, art, game studies, and more. Located in Hamden, CT, the program also gives students the chance to collaborate with partners both within and outside the community.

•   1 year of tuition: $50,400

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15. Rochester Institute of Technology

The Game Design, Development, and Arts program at RIT has been rated one of the best programs in this field of study by many organizations, including U.S. News & World Report. Degree options include 3D Digital Design, Film & Animation, Illustration, New Media Interactive Development, and more.

•   1 year of tuition: $56,136


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16. Worcester Polytechnic Institute

The Interactive Media and Game Development (IMGD) program at WPI dives into different aspects of gaming design, including digital painting, 3D modeling, writing for games, game audio, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality. Located in Worcester, MA, the program is recognized as one of the oldest gaming programs in the country.

•   1 year of tuition: $57,960

17. New York University

New York University’s BFA in Game Design has three primary areas of study: Game Studies, Game Design, and Game Development. You can also choose from one the following Production Areas: Programming, Video Design, Audio Design, and Game Business. Though tuition here is a bit higher than at some of the other schools, you can pay for it with a federal or private student loan.

•   1 year of tuition: $60,438

18. Carnegie Mellon

The Game Design undergraduate program at Carnegie Mellon in Pittsburgh, PA will give you a solid foundation in game systems and mechanics design, interactive narrative and character development, visual and audio asset creation, game programming, interface design and user testing, and collaboration and the iterative design process.

•   1 year of tuition: $62,260

19. University of California – Santa Cruz

In USC Santa Cruz’s Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Computer Game Design, you’ll learn about the construction and design of interactive computer games. In your final year of study, you’ll be immersed in an intensive year-long game project sequence.

•   1 year of tuition: In-state: $30,567; Out-of-state: $65,148

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20. Cornell University

Cornell, another of the best game design colleges located in Ithaca, NY, offers a minor in Game Design that includes classes like Intro to Computer Game Architecture, Advanced Computer Game Architecture, Analytics-Driven Game Design, Graphics and Art, the Psychology of Gaming, and Human-Computer Interaction.

•   1 year of tuition: $65,204

The Takeaway

With so many game design colleges available, it might be hard to make a decision. Factors to keep in mind include the type of program, the location, the faculty and staff, and the cost.

However, don’t let cost deter you from going to the school of your choice. To pay for school, you can look into federal student loans, scholarships, and grants.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.

Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

What’s the most affordable game design program?

Shawnee State University offers a nationally acclaimed game design program with low tuition. Tuition for in-state residents is $16,156 per year.

What’s the most expensive game design program?

Cornell University has one of the most expensive game design programs in the U.S. at over $65,000 per year.

How much does game design school cost?

Game design schools can range from $16,000 per year all the way up to more than $65,000 per year.

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Photo credit: iStock/fizkes

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Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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A crane operator is responsible for the safe and precise transportation of large loads at building sites. Crane operators play a crucial part in the dynamic world of heavy machinery and construction, and the need for people in this role is growing along with the demand for infrastructure projects.

For those interested in this profession, the income potential is a key consideration. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for a crane and tower operator in May 2022 (the latest data available) was $65,220 per year, or $31.36 per hour. Depending on experience, industry, and location, some crane operators can make considerably more.

Read on to learn more about how much a crane operator can make, typical salary ranges, where to find the top-paying jobs, and the training and experience required to get a job as a crane operator.

What Are Crane Operators?

Crane operators handle all aspects of operating a crane — a machine that is used to lift and move heavy loads, machines, materials, and goods for a variety of purposes. A trade job that is often in high demand, crane operators are vital to many industries, including manufacturing, transportation, and construction.

Individuals in this role are responsible for more than just operating controls. To guarantee the safe and effective transportation of objects, crane operators also need to have a thorough awareness of load capabilities, safety procedures, and other site-specific factors.

Crane operators may use a variety of different cranes, including tower cranes, mobile cranes, and boom trucks, to perform their jobs. Though crane operators work solo, it’s not necessarily a good job for people with social anxiety, as they must be able to effectively communicate with other members of the construction team on the ground.


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How Much Do Starting Crane Operators Make a Year?

The starting salary for crane operators varies depending on industry, region, prior training, and certifications, but pay for an entry-level position averages around $35,000 per year, according to Zippia.

The earning potential of crane operators tends to improve as they gain more certificates and experience. The first few years lay the groundwork for skill development, and operators who put in the time and effort can move up the pay scale. Working overtime and overnight shifts can also boost crane operators’ salaries.

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What is the Average Salary for a Crane Operator?

According to the BLS’s most recent data, the average salary for a crane and tower operator in 2022 was $65,220. The lowest-paid 10% earned less than $37,680 that year, while the highest-paid 10% percent earned more than $93,410.

How much a crane operator makes, however, will depend on the operator’s level of expertise, industry specialization, and geographic location.

Crane operators working for construction and mining companies typically earn more than those who work in warehousing, storage, and manufacturing.

The highest-paying cities for crane operators are Vancouver, WA; New York, NY; and San Diego, CA.

How Much Money Does a Crane Operator Make by State?

As mentioned above, how much money a crane operator makes can vary by location. What follows is a breakdown of how much a crane operator makes per year, on average, by state.

State	Average Annual Salary
Alabama	$52,270
Alaska	$78,630
Arizona	$65,820
Arkansas	$44,900
California	$62,730
Colorado	$67,550
Connecticut	$82,430
Delaware	$62,960
Florida	$63,310
Georgia	$52,830
Hawaii	$105,170
Idaho	$72,860
Illinois	$58,680
Indiana	$56,640
Iowa	$62,220
Kansas	$59,050
Kentucky	$53,500
Louisiana	$61,710
Maine	$55,440
Maryland	$63,580
Massachusetts	$72,600
Michigan	$63,350
Minnesota	$74,210
Mississippi	$57,190
Missouri	$73,020
Montana	$67,090
Nebraska	$59,440
Nevada	$103,350
New Hampshire	$67,270
New Jersey	$97,930
New Mexico	$71,660
New York	$136,330
North Carolina	$57,080
North Dakota	$78,890
Ohio	$66,020
Oklahoma	$56,580
Oregon	$89,190
Pennsylvania	$58,920
Rhode Island	N/A
South Carolina	$55,360
South Dakota	$72,060
Tennessee	$54,490
Texas	$61,500
Utah	$60,230
Vermont	$64,540
Virginia	$64,470
Washington	$82,640
West Virginia	$51,210
Wisconsin	$59,390
Wyoming	$75,520

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Crane Operator Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

To become a crane operator, you first need a high school diploma or an equivalent. While not required, many crane operators attend trade school to learn practical construction skills and how to operate heavy machinery, including cranes. This is typically a one- or two-year course.

After graduating from a high school or trade school, many crane operators enroll in a general crane operator training program. These programs, which last between three weeks and three months, help prepare aspiring crane operators for the National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) examination.

It’s necessary for crane operators to hold the certification relevant to the types of cranes they operate. Some states and cities also require crane operators to hold a local license.

Once you have a job as a crane operator, you can not only earn competitive pay but also benefits. Many companies supplement the base pay with perks like paid time off, health insurance, and retirement programs.

When thinking about a career as a crane operator, it’s important to take into account the whole range of compensation and benefits that come with the job.


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Pros and Cons of a Crane Operator Salary

As with any profession, working as a crane operator comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the pros and cons of this role will help you determine if you’re well-suited for this career path.

Pros of Becoming a Crane Operator

•   Competitive salary: While you may not earn a $100,000 a year salary as a crane operator, this is generally a well-paid position.

•   Opportunities for overtime: Since construction projects often take longer than originally anticipated, crane operators frequently have the opportunity to make extra money by working overtime.

•   Industry need: The need for construction projects is ongoing, which helps to maintain a solid job market for crane operators and a constant flow of employment prospects.

•   Opportunities for advancement: As crane operators gain knowledge and specialized skills, they may be able to negotiate higher wages.

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Cons of Becoming a Crane Operator

•   Physically demanding: Operating a crane can be physically taxing since it involves standing or sitting for extended periods of time.

•   Safety concerns: Working with heavy machinery at significant heights is a necessary part of the profession, which has inherent safety concerns. Strict adherence to safety procedures is essential to avoiding accidents.

•   Variable working conditions: Crane operators are often exposed to a range of weather conditions and terrain. Work conditions can be challenging.

•   Training and certification requirements: You can’t just get a job as a crane operator right out of high school. Training and certification is necessary, which means you may need to invest some time and money into the career before you can start making a good salary.

The Takeaway

Crane operator jobs are one of the most coveted positions in the construction business thanks to the competitive pay. On average, crane operators earn $65,220, but certain jobs in competitive areas can pay considerably. Crane operators often have the opportunity to work overtime and typically get benefits on top of their base pay.

Whatever type of job you pursue, you’ll want to make sure your earnings can cover your everyday living expenses. To ensure your monthly outflows don’t exceed your monthly inflows, you may want to set up a budget and check out financial tools that can help track your income and spending.

With SoFi, you can keep tabs on how your money comes and goes.

FAQ

Can you make $100k a year as a crane operator?

The average annual salary for a crane operator is $65,220. However, a highly skilled and experienced crane operator may be able to make a six-figure salary, especially those employed in high-demand industries or areas.

Do people like being a crane operator?

Many people find a job as a crane operator rewarding due to its competitive pay, diverse work environments, and opportunities for skill development and advancement. For some, however, the physical demands and safety risks lower overall job satisfaction.

Is it hard to get hired as a crane operator?

Working as a crane operator can provide ample job opportunities for people who are qualified to work with these machines safely. To get a good job as a crane operator, you typically need to take trade school courses, complete general operator training, and gain apprenticeship experience.

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Photo credit: iStock/ewg3D

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*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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Lawyers are highly educated and command high salaries to match. How much a lawyer earns a year depends on what type of law they practice, what school they attended, as well as their competence and experience.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for a lawyer in May 2022 (the latest data available) was $135,740 per year, or $65.26 per hour.

Corporate lawyers who work in the private sector tend to earn more than those in the public sector (such as district attorneys or public defenders), and sole practitioners typically earn less money than lawyers at large firms.

Read on to learn more about how much a lawyer makes, where you can find top-paying jobs for lawyers, and the benefits and drawbacks of becoming a lawyer.

What Does a Lawyer Do?

Lawyers advise and represent clients on legal proceedings or transactions. They typically conduct in-depth research into law, regulations, and past rulings. They also prepare legal documents, including lawsuits, wills, and contracts.

Not an ideal job for people with social anxiety, lawyers will often appear in court in support of their clients and present evidence in hearings and trials, including arbitration and plea bargaining. Lawyers also counsel their clients in legal matters and suggest courses of action.

A lawyer’s exact duties will vary depending on the type of law they practice. For example, criminal defense attorneys advocate on behalf of those accused of criminal activity; family lawyers handle family-related legal issues like divorce, adoption, and child welfare; and corporate lawyers handle legal matters for businesses.
Some lawyers work for the government or in the public’s interest, and are known as public interest lawyers. Public defense attorneys, for example, represent criminal defendants who cannot afford to hire a private attorney. Public interest lawyers also work for nonprofit organizations to support civil rights and social justice causes.

Other types of lawyers include:

•   Environmental lawyers

•   Bankruptcy lawyers

•   Immigration lawyers

•   Intellectual property lawyers

•   Entertainment lawyers

•   Tax lawyers

•   Personal injury lawyers

•   Estate planning lawyers


💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

How Much Do Starting Lawyers Make a Year?

Lawyers tend to be well paid even at the entry level because they are highly educated. And, the more experience a lawyer gains, generally the more they will earn. According to ZipRecruiter, entry-level lawyers make $100,626 a year, on average, with a range from $47,000 to $138,000.

Those who choose to invest the time, money, and work into becoming a lawyer can feel relatively confident about being able to get a job when they graduate: The BLS projects an increase of 62,400 attorney jobs between 2022 and 2032, representing an 8% growth (which is faster than the average for other occupations).

Recommended: What Trade Job Makes the Most Money?

How Much Money Does a Lawyer Make a Year on Average?

According to the BLS’s most recent data, the average salary for a lawyer in 2022 was $135,740. The best-paid 25% made $208,980 that year, while the lowest-paid 25% made $94,440.

A lawyer working for a law firm or as in-house counsel will typically be paid with an annual salary versus an hourly wage, but the average hourly pay for a lawyer works out to be $65.26 an hour.

How much a lawyer makes, however, can vary widely depending on their experience, specialty, and location.

The highest paying legal specialties include:

•   Patent attorney

•   Intellectual property attorney

•   Trial lawyer

•   Tax attorney

•   Corporate lawyer

The cities that pay the highest lawyer salaries are:

•   San Jose, California ($267,840)

•   San Francisco, California ($239,330)

•   Washington, District of Columbia ($211,850)

•   Bridgeport, Connecticut ($209,770)

•   Oxnard, California ($207,970)

Recommended: 11 Work-From-Home Jobs Great for Retirees

How Much Money Does a Lawyer Make by State?

As mentioned above, how much money a lawyer makes can vary by location. What follows is a breakdown of how much a lawyer makes per year, on average, by state.

State	Average Annual Lawyer Salary
Alabama	$138,250
Alaska	$120,590
Arizona	$144,890
Arkansas	$116,730
California	$201,530
Colorado	$168,680
Connecticut	$174,520
Delaware	N/A
District of Columbia	$226,510
Florida	$135,840
Georgia	$165,560
Hawaii	$106,520
Idaho	$96,810
Illinois	$158,030
Indiana	$143,060
Iowa	$117,500
Kansas	$115,860
Kentucky	$99,840
Louisiana	$127,150
Maine	$102,060
Maryland	$158,150
Massachusetts	$196,230
Michigan	$127,030
Minnesota	$163,480
Mississippi	$101,240
Missouri	$138,680
Montana	$98,170
Nebraska	$119,310
New Hampshire	$130,130
New Jersey	$163,690
New Mexico	$110,970
New York	$188,900
North Carolina	$146,890
North Dakota	$120,780
Ohio	$130,320
Oklahoma	$114,470
Oregon	$144,610
Pennsylvania	$144,570
Rhode Island	$156,300
South Carolina	$115,230
South Dakota	$109,190
Tennessee	$149,050
Texas	$166,620
Utah	$133,920
Vermont	$101,610
Virginia	$162,640
Washington	$162,200
West Virginia	$122,070
Wisconsin	$147,530
Wyoming	$88,570

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Lawyer Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

To get a job as a lawyer, you must complete a four-year undergraduate degree and then attend law school to earn a juris Doctor degree, or J.D. This can mean four years pursuing a bachelor’s degree, followed by three years of law school (or four years if you go to law school part time).

After graduating from law school, you’ll need to pass the multi-day bar exam for the state in which you want to practice. In addition, most states also require lawyers to keep up to date with law and take training courses throughout their career.

The hard work and financial investment can pay off, however. In addition to competitive pay, lawyers who work full time for a specific company or organization typically get a wide variety of benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, flexible scheduling, and more. They may also get bonuses for cases won, costs of bar association fees covered, and training and development opportunities.


💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Pros and Cons of a Lawyer’s Salary

Becoming a lawyer can be a clear path to making more than $100,000 but, as with any profession, working as a lawyer comes with both benefits and drawbacks. Understanding the pros and cons of this role will help you determine if you’re well-suited for this career path.

Pros of Becoming a Lawyer

•   Multiple job opportunities: As a lawyer, you have a variety of career paths, giving you the opportunity to work in an area you feel passionate about, whether that is corporate law, family law, real estate law, criminal law, or immigration law.

•   Option to start your own practice: With a law degree and significant experience, you may be able to start your own business and determine the types of clients you want to represent and how many cases you want to take on at any one given time.

•   Earn a high salary: Lawyers have the potential to earn well over six figures a year. Though you may not earn this salary right out of the gate, there is ample opportunity for career advancement and salary increases over time.

•   Stimulating and challenging work: As a lawyer, your daily duties will likely be intellectually challenging. Lawyers typically need to understand complex legal theories, form a hypothesis and create a legal strategy to benefit their clients, and argue and debate in a courtroom.

Cons of Becoming a Lawyer

•   Work can be stressful: Lawyers must meet deadlines as well as the demands of their clients. You may also come across stressful and emotionally difficult cases, which can take a psychological toll.

•   Long hours: This professional is notorious for its long hours, particular for those who are just starting out in a prestigious law practice. It’s not unusual for an associate lawyer to put in 60 to 90 hours a week each week, depending on the demands of the case they’re working on.

•   High level of student debt: In addition to a bachelor’s degree, lawyers need to pay for law school, which often comes with a high price tag. Generally, the more prestigious the school, the higher the price. Even with a high salary, new lawyers may not be able to pay off their debt for many years.

•   Today’s clients have more options: The opportunity to get clients has gotten more competitive with the rise of self-help legal websites, legal document technicians, and virtual law offices. If a client seeks legal advice or counsel, they don’t always have to go to a lawyer for help.

The Takeaway

A law degree is a valuable credential that takes around seven years of study to achieve (including a bachelor’s degree). Lawyers can choose where they want to work and what type of law they would like to specialize in, whether it be criminal law, corporate law, environmental law, or immigration law.

The amount a lawyer makes will vary depending on the school they attended, experience, type of law they practice, and where in the country they practice. According to the BLS, the highest paid lawyers earn over $230,000, and the lowest paid lawyers earn around $66,500.

Whatever type of job you pursue, you’ll want to make sure your earnings can cover your everyday living expenses. To help ensure your monthly outflows don’t exceed your monthly inflows, you may want to set up a basic budget and check out financial tools that can help track your income and spending.

With SoFi, you can keep tabs on how your money comes and goes.

FAQ

Can you make $100k a year as a lawyer?

Yes. Most lawyers earn over $100k a year. The average salary for a lawyer, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, is $135,740 per year. The best-paid lawyers, however, can earn more than $200,000 a year.

Do people like being a lawyer?

Being a lawyer can be a great career choice if you enjoy working in a fast-paced and challenging environment and have an interest in upholding laws and defending an individual’s rights. According to a recent survey by Law360 Pulse, 83% of surveyed attorneys report they are stressed at least some of the time, nonetheless 68% percent say they are satisfied or very satisfied with their overall job.

Is it hard to get hired as a lawyer?

It’s generally not hard to find a job as a lawyer after you pass the bar exam, especially if you attended a top-rated law school, graduated in the top third of your class, and/or had strong internships and clerkships. Jobs for lawyers are expected to grow 8% between 2022 and 2032, which is faster than the average for other occupations (3%).

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Photo credit: iStock/shapecharge

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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Nutritionists advise others on what to eat in order to lead a healthy lifestyle or achieve a specific health-related goal, such as losing weight or reducing blood pressure. Some nutritionists work directly with clients and patients in clinical settings, while others work in community settings like schools or health centers developing food plans and strategies for certain groups or demographics.

How much a nutritionist makes will depend on their qualifications, experience, and where they work, but the average nutritionist’s salary in the U.S. is $54,137 a year, according to ZipRecruiter.

Read on to learn more about how much a nutritionist can make a year and an hour, which cities and states pay the highest salaries, and other compensation and occupational benefits nutritionists enjoy.

What Are Nutritionists?

A nutritionist is an expert in using food to improve health and to prevent and manage disease. Nutritionists often advise people on what to eat to address a particular medical issue, such as hypertension, diabetes, or obesity. They may also be called upon to come up with a plan of action in situations where a treatment protocol, such as chemotherapy, impacts an individual’s overall diet or creates particular food sensitivities. Their exact role will depend on their specialization.

Being a nutritionist is not an ideal job for antisocial people, since you generally don’t work alone. Nutritionists can work in a variety of work settings, including:

•   Hospitals and doctors’ offices

•   Nursing homes

•   Gyms and recreation centers

•   Foodservice organizations

•   Food and beverage companies

•   Pharmaceutical companies

•   Government organizations

While the terms “nutritionist” and “dietician” are often used interchangeably, there are some key distinctions between them. A registered dietitian (R.D.) is qualified to diagnose and treat certain medical conditions. Nutritionists, on the other hand, tend to focus on general nutritional aims and behaviors.

Dietitians also tend to have more education and credentials, though that’s not always the case. Depending on the state they practice in, a nutritionist may be required to have specific qualifications, certifications, or a license. However, in some states, there are no such mandates — meaning anyone can use the title if they want to.

While every dietitian can be called a nutritionist, not every nutritionist is a dietitian.

How Much Do Starting Nutritionists Make a Year?

While the average nutritionist’s salary is $54,137 a year, someone just starting out in the field may not be able to earn that figure as an entry-level salary. That said, a nutritionist coming into the profession with an advanced degree, such as a master’s or doctorate, and a license or other credentials, may be able to command a higher-than-average salary even when they are just starting out.


💡 Quick Tip: When you have questions about what you can and can’t afford, a spending tracker app can show you the answer. With no guilt trip or hourly fee.

What is the Average Salary for a Nutritionist?

While salaries for a nutritionist can range anywhere from $32,500 to $90,000, the average annual pay for a nutritionist in the U.S. is $54,137 a year, according to February 2024 data from ZipRecruiter.

Nutritionist’s typically get paid an annual salary but some may make money by the hour, which can range from $15.62 to $43.27.

How much a nutritionist makes, however, can vary significantly by education, credentials, experience, industry, and location. Advanced education, such as a master’s or doctoral degree, can generally help you qualify for a higher-than-average nutritionist’s salary.

Certain metropolitan areas also pay more than others. The top paying cities for nutritionists include: Berkeley, CA,; Renton, WA; Newark, CA; Woburn, MA; and Santa Monica, CA.

Recommended: Is a $100,000 Salary Good?

The Average Nutritionist Salary by State for 2024

As mentioned above, how much money a nutritionist makes can vary by location. What follows is a breakdown of how much a dietician makes per year, on average, by state (listed from highest to lowest).

State	Average Annual Salary
Wisconsin	$83,731
Alaska	$81,044
Massachusetts	$80,824
Oregon	$80,772
New Mexico	$80,529
North Dakota	$80,527
Washington	$80,268
Minnesota	$79,381
Hawaii	$78,914
Ohio	$77,594
Colorado	$76,879
Nevada	$76,629
South Dakota	$76,107
New York	$75,623
Iowa	$74,908
Rhode Island	$74,814
Connecticut	$74,143
Tennessee	$74,087
Vermont	$73,710
Utah	$73,446
Mississippi	$72,808
Delaware	$72,604
Virginia	$71,688
Illinois	$71,072
Maryland	$70,347
New Jersey	$69,540
California	$69,458
Louisiana	$69,304
Pennsylvania	$69,281
Nebraska	$68,943
Kansas	$68,520
Missouri	$68,260
Maine	$67,953
South Carolina	$67,618
New Hampshire	$67,312
Oklahoma	$66,767
Idaho	$66,358
Wyoming	$66,356
North Carolina	$66,222
Texas	$65,834
Indiana	$65,561
Arizona	$64,205
Kentucky	$64,000
Michigan	$63,673
Montana	$63,238
Alabama	$62,448
Arkansas	$60,647
Georgia	$58,176
West Virginia	$53,507
Florida	$51,486

Source: ZipRecruiter

Nutritionist Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

To get a job as a nutritionist or dietician, you may need:

•   A bachelor’s degree, ideally in dietetics, nutrition, food service systems management, clinical nutrition, or a related area.

•   Advanced degree (such as a master’s or doctoral degree)

•   Supervised training through an internship

•   A license (many, though not all, states require licenses for dietitians and nutritionists to practice)

•   Certification (many dietitians earn the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist credential, which requires a bachelor’s degree and completed a dietetic internship program).

Nutritionists who work on staff typically receive not only competitive pay but also a suite of benefits, which may include:

•   401(k)

•   Dental insurance

•   Disability insurance

•   Employee assistance program

•   Flexible spending account

•   Health insurance

•   Life insurance

•   Paid time off

•   Retirement plan

•   Vision insurance


💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Pros and Cons of Becoming a Nutritionist?

As with any profession, becoming a nutritionist comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a closer look at the job’s pros and cons.

Pros of Becoming a Nutritionist

•   Opportunity to help people: Nutritionists help people by guiding them in their food choices and assisting them in reaching their health and nutritional goals, which can be highly rewarding.

•   Varied tasks and responsibilities: A nutritionist can enjoy meeting a variety of people in different contexts. No client or situation will be the same, and each will bring new challenges.

•   Can work in a variety of settings: Nutritionists can choose where they want to work, such as a hospital, nursing home, school, or gym. With extensive experience, a registered dietitian might open a private consulting practice and offer specialized services to their patients.

•   Strong job outlook: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the employment of dietitians and nutritionists to grow 7% between 2022 and 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

Cons of Becoming a Nutritionist?

•   May need an advanced degree and certification: Depending on where you want to work, you may need to obtain a master’s and/or certain certifications (on top of a bachelor’s degree).

•   Can be emotionally draining: Though generally a low-stress job, nutritionists may need to have frequent interactions with seriously ill patients, which can be emotionally challenging.

•   You constantly have to stay up to date: Nutrition is an evolving science, which means you’ll need to stay current on the latest nutritional guidelines, regulations, and research, and adjust your practice based on new developments.

•   Competition for top-paying jobs: While the job outlook is strong for nutritionists, jobs with competitive pay may receive a lot of applicants. Obtaining more than the minimum education and training required by the state, however, can set you apart from other job competitors.

Recommended: How Much Does a Nurse Make a Year?

The Takeaway

Working as a nutritionist can be a rewarding career for people who want to help others improve their health and lifestyle. Nutritionists can choose where they want to work and who they want to work with. A nutritionist’s salary can range from $32,500 to $90,000 or more depending on their certification, experience, and employer.

Whatever type of job you pursue, you’ll want to make sure your earnings can cover your everyday living expenses. To help ensure your monthly outflows don’t exceed your monthly inflows, you may want to set up a basic budget and check out financial tools that can help track your income and spending.

SoFi helps you stay on top of your finances.

FAQ

Can you make $100k a year as a nutritionist?

Earning $100K as a nutritionist is possible but isn’t typical. Nutritionist salaries range anywhere from $32,500 to $90,000 a year, according to ZipRecruiter. That said, getting an advanced degree and extra certifications and/or starting your own private practice could lead to a six figure income.

Do people like being a nutritionist?

People who want to help others and who have an interest in the science of food will enjoy being a nutritionist. There are plenty of opportunities for nutritionists in a variety of contexts.

Is it hard to get hired as a nutritionist?

Nutritionists and dieticians are currently in demand and job opportunities are expected to grow 7% between 2022 and 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

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Photo credit: iStock/Candle Photo

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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