For many students, getting into college is a tremendous accomplishment. But, that's when the work begins, and getting a degree is becoming more and more important as time passes. Our Brian Dwyer tells us how New York State's community colleges are teaming up to let students know exactly what a degree means.

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STATEWIDE -- In college, it isn't how you start that's important as how you finish, especially when it comes to life after college.

"Life gets in the way. They are here, they have the very best intentions to get their degree. Frequently students will take some credits with us, and then transfer to a four-year institution. Somewhere along the way, they don't finish," explained Dr. Carole McCoy, JCC President.

McCoy said that it is a shame, because earning a college degree can create all types of opportunities.

"It makes a different in what you earn, it makes a difference in how attractive you are to employers. People with degrees have children that go on to get degrees. It's a big thing," added McCoy.

On Wednesday, JCC and the other 36 community colleges in New York State, teamed up for a big event to spread the word. They called it Completion Day. Schools went the extra mile to show students what a degree can mean.

"Education is important, everybody needs education to succeed in life," said Isaiah Butler, JCC student. "You get you're education and there's more options that open up for you."

Diamond Freeman, another student, added, "To get a better job, to better my life. To make sure I don't get in any trouble. To get out of Watertown. Things like that, to expand my horizons."

"We could have had a panel. We could have had me do a speech, but we'd be talking to ourselves. We have to connect with students in ways that will catch their attention," noted Dr. McCoy.

Students received the message loud and clear, and event volunteered to sign a banner, pledging to finish what they started.