A recent Kinder Houston Area Survey conducted by Rice University found that 78 percent of people disagree with the statement that a high school education is enough to get a good job.

However, the percent of people who mentioned education when asked to name the biggest problem facing the city increased from 1.7 percent in 2009 to 7.6 percent in 2011. Researchers said that the residents of the region seem willing to do what it takes to attract the best and brightest people to the area.

"There is a new awareness that this is now a high-tech, knowledge-based economy and there are not many good jobs for people without a college education," said Stephen Klineberg, a Rice professor of sociology. "Education is more important than ever. Long gone are the days when you could get a job out of high school, work hard and make enough money until you retire."

Individuals may wish to take a free career profile after graduating from high school to help guide them toward a job field that they possess the best qualities for.