A college education is not only important because it leads to higher wages over a lifetime, it also broadens the scope of opportunities available after graduation. A quick look at the backgrounds of today's leaders shows what most of us suspect: college graduates are more likely to attain positions of influence at the local, national, and global levels. Want to lead a city, a county, or the nation? College provides the foundation. Are you interested in helping others? You can have a bigger impact if you've gone to college.