It is a commonly held belief that earning a university degree is the only path to getting a job and career success. Underlying this myth is a measure of snobbish belief that a university education at a prestigious (read “old”) institution is superior to attending a community college or pulling yourself up by your bootstraps.
The truth is that deciding whether university is the right path for you is a significant decision that should be based on careful consideration of your goals, interests, and circumstances. A university education at EU Business School, for example, can offer a structured environment for learning and can be valuable for certain career paths, but it’s not the only route to success. Here are a few things to consider before deciding whether university is right for you:
- Self-Reflection and Goals:
- Assess your long-term goals and aspirations. Consider the careers or fields you’re interested in and whether they require a university degree.
- Reflect on your strengths, skills, and areas of interest. Identify what you’re passionate about and what you enjoy learning.
- If you have a particular skill or talent, you might be able to pursue a career in a creative or entrepreneurial field without a degree. Many successful artists, writers, musicians, and entrepreneurs have achieved their goals without formal education.
- Research Potential Career Paths:
- Research the careers you’re interested in to determine the educational requirements. Some professions, like medicine, law, engineering, and academia, typically require specific degrees.
- However, many other fields value skills and experience more than a degree. For example, a university education is no longer mandatory to become a journalist, solicitor, engineer, to join the police force or work in finance.
- Evaluate Learning Preferences:
- Consider your preferred learning style. Do you thrive in structured academic environments, or do you prefer hands-on, practical learning experiences?
- Reflect on whether you’re self-motivated and capable of pursuing self-directed learning if you decide against a traditional university setting.
- If you’re highly motivated and disciplined, self-directed learning through online resources, books, and hands-on experience can provide a solid foundation for various careers.
- Consider Alternative Education Paths:
- Explore the many alternative education options that provide the specific skills and knowledge needed for your desired career, such as vocational schools, trade schools, online courses, certifications, apprenticeships, and workshops. These can provide specialized training and skills that are directly applicable to certain industries.
- Financial Considerations:
- Evaluate the cost of attending university, including tuition, fees, living expenses, and potential student loan debt.
- Consider whether the earning potential of your chosen career justifies the investment in a university education.
- University education can be expensive, and student loan debt can have a long-term impact on your financial well-being. If you’re concerned about the cost, explore more affordable alternative options.
- Talk to Professionals:
- Reach out to professionals working in the fields you’re interested in. Ask about their educational backgrounds, career paths, and whether they feel their education was essential for their success.
- Many employers value real-world experience and practical skills over formal education. Internships, freelance work, volunteering, and personal projects can help you build a portfolio and demonstrate your abilities to potential employers.
- Visit Campuses and Attend Open Days:
- If you’re still unsure, visit university campuses and attend their open days. This can give you a sense of the campus environment, resources, and programs offered.
- Explore Potential Universities:
- Research universities that offer programs aligned with your interests. Consider factors such as reputation, faculty, available resources, location and opportunities for research or internships.
- Discuss with Family and Mentors:
- Seek advice from trusted family members, mentors, teachers, or career counsellors. They can offer insights and perspectives that you might not have considered. EU Business School has an online helpline on their website to answer all your questions and give practical advice.
- Short-Term and Long-Term Prospects:
- Consider how attending university might impact your short-term and long-term prospects. Will it provide you with the skills, connections, and knowledge you need to achieve your goals?
- University can provide opportunities for networking and building connections, which can be valuable for some career paths. However, networking can also be achieved through internships, workshops, conferences, and industry events.
- Personal Circumstances:
- Take into account your personal circumstances, such as location, family responsibilities, and any other commitments that might affect your ability to attend university full-time.
- Trust Your Instincts:
- Trust your gut and make a decision that aligns with your values, passions, and aspirations. Remember that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and what’s right for one person might not be right for another.
- Pursuing something you’re truly passionate about can lead to a fulfilling and successful career, whether or not it requires a university degree. It’s important to align your choices with what genuinely interests you.
Final Thoughts
Perhaps most importantly, your decision doesn’t have to be permanent. This is not a once-in-a-lifetime decision that will determine your entire future.
Many people choose to go back to school or pursue different paths later in life. The most important thing is to make a decision that feels right for you at this moment in time based on your unique circumstances and goals.
Are you considering studying at one of EU Business School’s four campuses, but still have doubts about committing to life as a student? Click here to access EU’s online helpline for practical advice about your educational journey.
