University Matters

For my first 'proper' post, I wanted to write something that I feel strongly about: not going to university. I'm not going to go on a rant on why no one should ever go to university, I just think that many people think it's almost their only option and the 'done' thing to do, so I've decided to write my view on the matter.

There used to be two main paths for school leavers: get a job or go to university. Everything was black and white. Those who excelled in their A-levels went to university, those who didn’t do well got a job. University was considered widely as the “better” option.

It’s a well-known fact that the number of people going to university is a lot larger now than it was a few decades ago, so does this take the significance of it away? Nowadays, going to a university after college or sixth form is seen as the norm whereas in the 1960’s it was only those 'nerds' who went on to university and the option definitely wasn’t for everyone.

Whether you want to study the likes of Shakespeare in English Literature, Law or Maths the chances are you’ll be in debt from the minute you walk in, with tuition fees now at £9,000 a year for some universities. The amount of work can also be hugely underestimated - as are the hangovers after ‘freshers’ week! Adding to these pressures are the endless stories and rumours about people who have spent years at university gaining a degree only to end up not using it anyway, or the high hopes of under graduates being shattered meaning they drop out at the end of the first term anyway, or the mere fact that even with a degree you’re never guaranteed the job you want – or even a job at all.

On the other side of the spectrum, a graduate will have an asset to their CV that non university goers will not have. University also provides you with general life skills, not only the ability to work with a hangover, pay rent and call your Mum every weekend but also independent study, reading and socialising. 

Luckily, there are now many more options widely available and accessible than there were back in the day where everything was black and white. We now have apprenticeships, the chance of doing a degree whenever you want to in life through the Open University, BTECS and diplomas - the list is almost endless. Just remember, no matter what anyone says or what the statistics are, you must do what is right for YOU.

Until next time chums!

Abi :)

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