CONTINUING TO LEARN
AND IMPROVE

Education is never completed until you die.

—Robert E. Lee, Commander of the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia (1807–1870)

Studies show that more than 40% of college graduates will never read another book after they graduate. That's one of the saddest statistics I've ever read. How is it that our educational system failed students to such an extent that reading is not seen as a joyous discovery, but a chore that students can cease to perform after they've earned a degree? I've actually taught college students who believed they'd be finished with learning after they graduated!

I'm not talking about you, of course. (At least, I hope not!) No, you're someone who is passionate about the field in which you work (or plan to work), and you read everything you can because you love learning. This chapter will help you focus on what you need to read and learn to keep you current and informed—and employable.