<prompt> Human: I went straight into the workforce after graduating. For years I tried to work my way up into jobs at my workplace that were more suited to me. I was always told the same thing. You do not have a degree.After nearly a decade of working for this company, I reached out of state for another position way above my current pay and level. They saw my length of employment, checked in with my references then took a chance and called me in for an interview. During the interview I was knowledgeable enough that they hired me right there and then, despite not having an education.So far everything has been great and I am grateful that someone recognized my abilities without having to look at a little sheet of paper.My wife is in a similar situation. While she was working towards her bachelors degree, she took up an internship within her field. She did such a good job that they hired her on. During this time, she had some financial struggles so she ended her education.She still kept her job, doing the same kind of work as her co-workers with degrees. She has sorta become the go to person in her office. Her boss told her recently that if she wouldve gotten her bachelors degree, theyd be paying her twice as much.Why does it matter? She has proven just as capable and knowledgeable as her peers.  <response>: You took ten years to amass the same education that people who pursue a degree can get in four. Thats the opposite of a shortcut. And the degree usually results in a higher salary. 