As the new school year begins, for those in Year 12 and 13 their focus starts to shift beyond their school days as they look to their future. For many a key part of this will be about going on to study at University. As part of our Preparing for University series we look at why it’s important to think about going to University.
Why University?
Before making a University application, one of the key things to consider why you are going to University in the first place.
Here are the top 10 reasons we think pursuing a University education is a good plan:
It’s a brilliant opportunity to study something you are passionate about.
For some professions it is pre-requirement to have a relevant degree, these may include areas such as Medicine or Engineering.
Entry level into many other professions is based on degree level education, even if the degree is not related to the particular job. Yes, you can be an Accountant with an Anthropology degree!
Its an opportunity to develop your academic interests and become an expert in your field.
You will not only hone your academic knowledge but you will also acquire a range of transferable skills that are highly valued by future employers, such as problem solving skills, time management, self motivation, team working, people skills and self reliance.
It is part of the journey to being an adult - a way of learning to stand on your own two feet, to make new friends and build a network of connections for your future.
Even with the cost of University rising there is still a graduate premium, with statistics showing that graduates earn more over a lifetime than those who leave school with A Levels or the equivalent. According to the Department of Business Innovation and Skills in the UK this can be worth up to 53% more pay over a lifetime for women and 23% for men.
University open your eyes to lots of different directions and kinds of courses. Even if your predicted grades are not sensational there will still be degree programmes that will open up new horizons for you.
Its an opportunity to take a different direction. Just because you have not studied a subject before does not mean you cannot study it at university. There are plenty of options and combinations to consider.
There are lots of opportunities to get work experience either through a placement year in industry or thorugh University campus led initiatives. Lots of universities now have incubator business hubs to encourage student entrepreneurs to put their ideas into practice.
Next in the series: Evaluating the league tables.