How to Pick a Degree that Suits You
Selecting the course of study you will pursue for your degree might be extremely intimidating. Before that, pupils are generally aware of what to expect from their daily academic journey. However, it can be nerve-racking when they reach a point where they must decide which course they wish to take. This is because it’s one of the most important decisions you will ever have to make. Students who have multiple interests at the moment or who may not yet know what kind of career they desire may find it even more challenging.
In any event, most people prefer to work in an environment that will allow them to pursue their passions or offer them sufficient financial security when choosing a future job. Whatever your professional aspirations, it is crucial that you carefully consider the degree you will pursue in college. But how precisely do you do that? Well, don’t worry anymore. A few items on our list should assist you in deciding what to study for your undergraduate degree.
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What to ask yourself before choosing a degree?
Singapore is brimming with the best universities in Asia, however, some students are still finding their way and questioning what to take for their undergraduate degree. Some are still not sure what they want to pursue while others can’t choose which ones they want to pursue. If you are one of these students, we have some helpful questions you may ask yourself before choosing the degree for you.
1. What are you good at?
Knowing and comprehending your strengths and skill sets is always a smart idea before committing to a college degree. You will gain a better understanding of what you wish to pursue as well. It will therefore be easier for you to take classes for your degree if you are aware of the topics you are already proficient in. You can better explain why you should pursue this degree and, consequently, this job if you already know what you are strong at and the main areas in which you will succeed.
Review the subjects that you are good at or even confident in and research about degrees that are in line with those subjects. You can also try looking for degrees that need a specific skill set or talent such as with baking, cooking, or designing.
2. What are you interested in?
You shouldn’t pursue anything right away just because you’re skilled at it. Many times, students who are performing well in their studies or receiving decent scores “settle” for a degree even when they are not truly passionate about it. Even while it’s a great method to use your abilities, you can come to regret your degree if you don’t have any enthusiasm or passion for a particular field.
Students have numerous possibilities within the school system to discover and cultivate their individual interests as well as their strengths. Additionally, this enables students to discover various programs that better fit their learning styles and increases their chances of success in their future employment. Naturally, a lot of students struggle to find their own special interests, and it might be easier said than done. However, you can also use a variety of resources, including online tests, to discover your own interests. Additionally, you can experiment and continue with the activities that pique your interest.
3. Will the degree lead to a high-paying job?
Let’s be honest, aside from all the good stuff about strengths and interests, another major factor that should be considered is whether the degree will lead you to a field that will offer financial security. While passions and skills are important in choosing a course for your future career, you might also want to keep in mind the practicality of your chosen path.
For instance, general counsel, investment banking, general and specialized practice, and information technology are currently among the most profitable occupations in Singapore. Your prospects of achieving financial security in the future will rise if you enroll in a degree that will enable you to work in these industries. For a better chance of success, it is still preferable to combine your interests and abilities with pragmatism and realistic goals.
4. Will you be able to pass the degree?
Completing certain degrees will be more difficult than others. For this reason, you must recognize your talents and determine whether you possess the knowledge and abilities needed to complete it. If, by the end of the first semester, you are unable to pass the degree because you are not capable of doing so, it will have been a waste of time and effort.
The degree of difficulty will vary depending on several things, including the assignments and tests. Additionally, certain degrees might cover more ground than others, and some will cover more topics than others. Additionally, there will be instances where degrees get harder as the years pass. You must keep in mind that completing a degree will take years, so you must also think about whether it will be more difficult for you to pass now and in the future.
5. What if you can’t choose yet?
When deciding which university path to pursue, there are numerous degree options and a plethora of factors to take into account. Students may find this to be quite scary and overwhelming, especially since it will have an impact on their future. But if you’re still struggling with your decision, why don’t you ask for assistance from someone you can trust?
As an example, you can ask your teacher for some advice as to what undergraduate program to take. Teachers may also give you a more objective perspective as to what your strengths and weaknesses are, which in turn will help in choosing which path to take when pursuing higher education. They can also lend a hand when applying for highly competitive universities or courses since they will be able to write recommendation letters to boost your application chances. Teachers may also share some of their experiences with higher education to give you more insights as to what to expect as well.
You can ask your parents, friends, family members, or any other adult whose ideas you value and trust for advice in addition to your teachers. The more viewpoints you have, the more likely it is that you will notice features of this choice that you may not have previously noticed. In times like this, things might get overwhelming and unclear, but you can seek help and perhaps obtain more clarity on your decision.
6. Can you switch degrees later on?
The good news is, you can’t be tied down to just one course. If you do find the degree to be too difficult for you or not suitable for the career path you want at all, you are free to change your degree. However, this is only recommended if you have the means to do so. Transferring to another program takes a lot of resources and effort, which makes it really not advisable.
So, you should have a stronger grasp as to what you want to do for your career and what path you want to take in the future before applying to universities. This is to avoid putting all effort and resources to waste. However, if you really believe that the course you have chosen is really not suited for you, you can look into other courses that may be better for you.
Conclusion
Every student pursuing higher education must make a significant decision regarding the degree to pursue. It acts as the door you must open to enter the path that will lead to your future. All things considered, it’s ideal to pick a degree that you’ll be committed to pursuing no matter what. As previously said, pursuing a degree may require years of study. Since you will be the one bearing the repercussions of your choices and actions, it is preferable to keep outside pressure from affecting your decision. Additionally, this will assist you avoid regretting allowing outside pressures and forces to affect you.
Carelle
Carelle is a teacher who has been through the ups and downs of the teacher and learner life. She wishes for every learner to gain educational satisfaction that will help embody the people they want to be in the future.