University Advice: What Is Best For You?
As a Senior Lecturer, I've spent years guiding students through the complex decisions that come with higher education. One of the most frequently asked questions I receive is about choosing the right path—whether it’s selecting a university, college, or subject choice.
This blog post explores how to make the best decisions for you, free from external pressures or influences. Remember, this is your future, and it’s crucial to make choices that align with your own goals and interests.
If you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below or reach out on Instagram, I’m here to help.
How to Make Higher Education Decisions Without External Influence
Choosing a university or college and deciding on a subject (major) are some of the most significant decisions you’ll make in your academic life. It’s easy to get swayed by the opinions of others-parents, friends, or societal expectations. However, to truly thrive in your educational journey, you need to make decisions that resonate with your aspirations and strengths.
Here’s how you can do that:
Understand Your Interests and Strengths
The first step in making an informed decision is to understand what excites you. Ask yourself:
What subjects do I enjoy the most?
What activities make me lose track of time?
What are my strengths, both academically and personally?
By identifying your passions and strengths, you’ll be better equipped to choose a field of study that aligns with your true interests, leading to a more fulfilling university experience.
Research Potential Careers
Once you’ve identified your interests, explore the careers that align with them. Look into:
Job prospects in your chosen field
Potential salary ranges
Long-term career growth and opportunities
Work-life balance and job satisfaction in those roles
This research will help you understand the practical implications of your choices, ensuring that your decision isn’t just based on passion but also future opportunities.
Consider Different Educational Paths
Not everyone’s ideal path involves a traditional university experience. I started at College and later attended University and then did internships. Consider alternatives such as:
Community colleges or technical schools
Online courses or boot camps
Apprenticeships or internships
These options can provide valuable education and skills without the need for a four-year degree and may be better suited to your career goals.
Visit Campuses and Talk to Students
If you’re leaning towards a particular university or college, take the time to visit the campus.
Attend open days or information sessions
Speak with current students about their experiences
Sit in on a class or two to get a feel for the academic environment
This firsthand experience can provide insights that brochures and websites simply can’t.
Seek Guidance but Make Your Own Decision
It’s natural to seek advice from family, friends, and mentors, but remember that this is your journey. While it’s important to listen to different perspectives, the final decision should reflect what you want and need. You might be the first in your family to attend University, your parents might have had a bad experience, and they might be worried about student loans and the cost of an education. Try not to be swayed by biased options.
Trust Your Instincts
Trust your gut. Your intuition is a powerful tool in decision-making. If a certain path feels right to you, even if it’s not the most conventional choice, trust yourself. Your higher education journey is about discovering what works best for you, not fitting into someone else’s expectations.
And yes, it is possible to switch courses if that’s the right decision for you-speak to your course leader.
Deciding on your higher education path is a process that requires self-reflection, research, and a bit of courage. By focusing on your interests and strengths, exploring different educational paths, and trusting your instincts, you can make decisions that will lead to a fulfilling academic and professional future.