Returning to university for a new program didn’t just mean having new life experiences; it also meant feeling strong and comfortable with myself.
I learned that one of my biggest strengths is how much I enjoy studying when I feel passionate about the material. Before this new program, I felt like I wasn’t ever able to concentrate on a specific course. I would study for 10 minutes, and then something would inevitably distract me. I’d always end up browsing social media or messaging my friends instead of actually studying.
My new motivation to study and my clear ability to learn the material made me consider either entering a graduate program after graduation or pursuing a second Bachelor’s degree.
But I know that whenever I choose to share this idea with others, they’ll reply, “Shouldn’t you start a new job?” or “Shouldn’t you focus on establishing a full-time career instead?”
Earning a degree and entering the workplace is the norm, and I’m well aware of it. As soon as you graduate from university, society expects you to find a full-time job in your field of study. Your loved ones all want you to apply your knowledge from your degree program to your new career and help society in a 9-to-5 job.
Whenever I hear this sentiment, though, I begin to regret my plans to further my education. I realize this world is more expensive than it used to be — prices for food and necessities are increasing, and tuition can drain your bank account quickly. Going straight into a career just makes sense.
But then I remembered what a basketball coach at my previous college told me. “Don’t worry about what others say — do what’s best for you.”
When I think about my coach’s words, I remember how important it is to stay true to yourself. Sure, society has these overarching expectations that practically force us to start careers after we graduate from college. But just because many people “do life” that way doesn’t mean that one particular route is right for all of us.
When people expect students to pursue one degree and then head straight to building a career, they forget that we all have different life experiences.
On the path from high school to university to a career, some people experience setbacks toward their goals and have to rearrange their lives to fit their circumstances. Illness, family emergencies, trauma, and learning struggles can all impact the timeframe in which we complete our educational journeys. And of course, some people need more schooling for the careers that best fit into their lives, while others need less.
So, when it comes to your education, don’t let anyone pressure you into saying “no” to opportunities that will help you. If you deny yourself these chances to learn, you may hinder yourself or need to fight through even more obstacles to reach your ultimate goal.
Instead of making social norms dictate your educational path, choose the path that’s right for you. You know what you’ve been through and how it’s impacted you. You know your capabilities, and you know what you want, so don’t let anyone’s judgments influence your decisions. If you need more schooling for your dream career, pursue it if you can — your life and your future are in your hands.
Featured image via Matteo Vistocco on Unsplash
