Can you believe that we’re already seven months into 2024? It feels like just yesterday we were gearing up for another school year, yet it’s already time to start thinking about what next year might hold (especially if you’re in year thirteen)!
When the time to choose between university and the workforce rolls around, it pays to be well-informed so you can choose the pathway that helps you reach your unique goals. To help you get on the right track, we’ve put together a guide detailing the pros and cons of choosing to attend university, what other options you could pick, and how to know that you’re making the right choice for you!
If you want to end the year on a high note, it pays to get sorted early, and we can help you do just that. All you need to do is sit back and read on.
Is Going to University Worth It?
Unfortunately, there’s no easy answer to this question. Whether or not attending university is worth it depends on whether a degree would help you achieve your unique goals and how well university fits into your career plan.
In short, the best way to determine whether going to university is worth it is to form an in-depth and comprehensive career plan. Once you’ve done so, you’ll know the best way to reach your goals (and if that includes attending university). After all, there’s no point in accruing a tonne of Studylink debt if your dream job doesn’t require a bachelor’s!
Top 10 Advantages and Disadvantages of Going to University
When deciding whether to attend university, it’s always a good idea to weigh up the pros and cons before locking anything in. To get you started, we’ve listed our top ten advantages and disadvantages so you can make an informed decision.
The Good
Graduates are Less Likely to be Unemployed
According to Universities Australia, “University graduates were less likely to be unemployed than non-graduates during economic downturn.” With the New Zealand job market being what it is, this isn’t a small detail!
Generally, Graduates Make More Money in the Long Run
While this isn’t the case for everyone, graduates generally make more money than individuals without degrees. However, take this with a grain of salt, as there are many exceptions to the rule!
Going to University Will Ease You into Being Independent
Instead of jumping into the workforce with a full-time job, taking on a degree will make the transition from high school to the real world a lot easier! This is particularly true if you’re choosing to live in the dorms (it’s a much smoother transition than moving straight into a flat).
You’ll Meet Lots of New People
If you choose to pursue a degree, you’ll be rubbing shoulders with a tonne of other students that have the same interests as you! Lots of long-lasting friendships are forged at university; it’s a great opportunity to meet super interesting people.
Study Subjects that You Actually Find Interesting
Unlike high school, universities don’t force you to study subjects you don’t find interesting (unless they’re directly related to your major). Thus, you have total control over your courseload and can pick subjects that genuinely excite you!
The Bad
Even a Bachelor’s Degree Can Put You in Debt
HECS debt is no joke and can add up quickly! Even shorter degrees can put you thousands of dollars into debt, so make sure you’re sure a degree is what you want to do.
Most Degrees Won’t Guarantee a Job
While graduates are less likely to be employed, this doesn’t mean that you’re guaranteed a job after graduation. In fact, sources state that one-third of graduates don’t find a job until four months after graduation!
It Can Be Difficult to Make Money
When you’re hitting the books every night, it can be hard to find time for any kind of employment, even part time! This means that you might not be making a tonne of extra cash (and may have to slow down on the socialising).
It’s Hard Work
Degrees can be a lot of fun, but they also require a lot of hard work. If you aren’t ready to have multiple large assignments with similar due dates heading right at you, you might not quite be ready for university.
Degrees are Big Commitments
When you take into consideration your class schedule, assigned readings, assessments, and extra study sessions, it’s no surprise that university work takes up such a large chunk of your time. Make sure you’re ready to commit to your studies before securing your spot.
Is University Better Than Other Career Pathways?
While I’d love to give you an easy answer, this question is also totally subjective; for some people, the answer would be a resounding yes, and for others, it would be a strong no. It all depends on where you want your degree to take you and what you need to get ahead in your industry!
What’s The Difference Between University and Other Pathways
University is where recent (and not-so-recent) high school graduates go to expand their learning and lock down a degree. Their experiences often revolve around class work, research, assessments, and many more activities designed to further their knowledge. It’s unpaid, but at the end, degrees have the potential to make you more hireable in certain industries.
While attending university is one of the most popular post-school pathways, you also have apprenticeships, internships, work experience, and the option to go straight into the workforce. To discover what these involve, head to our article, ‘Careers You Can Start Today’.
Should I Go to University or Get a Job?
We know you’d love a straight answer but, unfortunately, we’re not going to give you one; deciding whether or not to pursue a degree is your decision and your decision alone! However, now that you’re armed with all of our university insights, we’re sure you’ll make the right choice.
If you’re still feeling a little unsure, check out our career quiz or career advice page; they’ll have you feeling sure about your future and confident making the big decisions!
