In this modern era, competition among those who are looking for jobs is extremely stiff, especially between students who have freshly graduated from university. Peer pressure often causes students to consider furthering their studies, because the concept of “everyone else holds a degree as well, it’ll be difficult for me to find a job” being engraved into their minds. But, taking up tertiary courses may not actually be suitable, or even needed, for you to be successful. There are also a few things to take into consideration when it comes to furthering one’s studies, so students have to reflect on the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision.
Students first need to think about why they would like to continue studying. Of course, on the surface, the idea of pursuing a Masters or even a PHD would sound rather favourable. However, students have to ask themselves what exactly is pushing them to further their education. Are they feeling pressured by society to do so? Or are they pursuing that path because they truly do feel passionate about it? It is important for students to think through this carefully. After all, furthering your education is not a small step to take. It would also be advisable for students to seek a third party’s opinion regarding this topic. Talk to your family, friends, and teachers. Perhaps even seek guidance from the university’s counsellor or an education advisor group, such as MABECS, for a more neutral opinion. Remember, it is always better to do some research and take some time off in order to make this decision. Rushing it or doing things impulsively may only lead to regret and expensive or unnecessary investments.
If you’ve already made the decision to take up a degree or another certification, students also need to think about how their studies would be funded. It would be a lie to say that education is not an expensive investment, but if you’re able to afford to do so, funding should not be too big of an issue. However, it wouldn’t hurt for students to look at outside resources to help with the funding. For instance, there are a large number of scholarships students can apply for. Of course, students have to do their research on this. It may sound overwhelming, but there are a large number of resources students can read up on online. Once again, the university’s counsellor or an education advisor group, like MABECS, can also guide you through the process, be it through searching for funding or simply just the whole application process in itself.
Post-studies, students need to weigh their options as well. Graduating with a Masters or a PhD will not necessarily guarantee one with a better paying job. Students have to understand that companies and businesses don’t simply look at one’s qualifications during the hiring process. The truth is that most companies and businesses want their idea of a “whole package”, meaning that they are hiring based on the person who has strong academic performance as well as the required job skills, not solely based on their education background or their results and qualifications. Keep in mind that there are many who are succeeding at their passions or work, and they may only have graduated from high school or completed secondary education.
Lastly, students have to understand that furthering your studies is not meant for everyone. Students should not be comparing themselves to their peers, as everyone has their strengths as well as weaknesses. Just because you feel as though furthering your studies may be necessary, it does not define your worth, nor does it make you a failure. In the long run, it is always better to do what you’re passionate about. Some students will find their calling through vocational pursuits or working immediately after they’ve graduated from their degree, while others might further their education. Whatever it is, students must know that there is much more to life than just studying. Know that everything will fall into place. It just takes a little time.