Pursue a Degree or Embark on a Career?
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Pursue a Degree or Embark on a Career?

As a polytechnic student, you are given the luxury of choice upon graduation: you can choose to dive straight into the working world or pursue a degree.

As a polytechnic education is designed to prepare students for the workforce, some fresh graduates might choose to kick-start their careers early. In contrast, other graduates might continue on their education route so as not to lose the momentum of being a student.

Which path should you take? Take these factors into consideration before making a decision!

Pursue a Degree or Embark on a Career?

As a polytechnic student, you are given the luxury of choice upon graduation: you can choose to dive straight into the working world or pursue a degree.

As a polytechnic education is designed to prepare students for the workforce, some fresh graduates might choose to kick-start their careers early. In contrast, other graduates might continue on their education route so as not to lose the momentum of being a student.

Which path should you take? Take these factors into consideration before making a decision!

financial
Your Financial Situation

Many polytechnic students marvel at the prospect of being able to draw a monthly income at a young age. This situation is a stark contrast from having money drawn out of your (or your parents’) bank accounts to cover your hefty university fees.

If you have financial concerns, it might make sense to work first and save some money for further education later on.

time
Your Time

Of course, the picture painted above would not be appealing to many, particularly for males who are required to spend two years in the Army.

Some Army recruits sidestep this situation by pursuing a part-time degree programme while serving their National Service. This allows them to earn an income, maximise their time and gain a qualification simultaneously.

path
Your Career Path

On top of that, you might also want to assess the career path you intend to pursue. If you are looking at pursuing a career that requires you to wield technical skills, consider gaining a year of work experience before pursuing higher education. This will allow you to enter the job market after graduation with both work experience and a relevant qualification.

However, if you intend to pursue a role that requires you to tap on proficient knowledge, such as in the business and finance sectors, your competitive edge will be in the form of a relevant degree from a recognised institution.

priorities
Your Priorities

For a clearer perspective, list the pros and cons of each path. The variables will differ from individual to individual because everyone has a different set of priorities. Talk to your seniors who might have been at a crossroads once, just like you are now. After all, the experiences of others hold many lessons from which you can draw upon.

If both work and study do not appeal to you at this point, consider taking a gap year to give yourself a break from the academic treadmill. Use your gap year to pursue hobbies and interests, volunteer, travel or even take up a part-time student job. Your exposure to the outside world will push you to become more self-aware, and possibly prepare you better for your future school or work environment!