We are in an era where anyone can be anything. That sounds cliché but it is time we looked beyond the possibilities of our degree. Neither your degree nor your course defines who you are or what you are capable of doing hence do not let yourself be restricted by your degree. Several students these days are not actually living and enjoying the school learning experience. This is because they are so focused on having excellent grades. Sometimes , I feel that being in school limits growth instead of nurturing it.
While grades are important, it shouldn’t be at the expense of creativity and independent thinking. Because once you step into the real world, employers want to know what you can do or what you have done in the past (beyond school).
Networking is something I would have done a bit more. Linking up with people and developing relationships,”. Says kafui Dey, a radio host on Starr FM
The university or college is a place to explore!!!!
Whenever I talk about degrees being overrated, people ask me if I regret going to school. The answer is No!!. For me, the university was a place where I got pushed out of my comfort zone, both mentally and emotionally. Where I met my amazing friends and colleagues from whom I learned a lot and it is part of the reason I am what I am today.
Therefore, I think the university can provide learning experiences outside the classroom. It is supposed to be a time of self-discovery, a time where you reflect on your life and the way forward as you learn. It is a period where you build connections and meet new people. Personally, in those four years, I learned a lot about myself and did things that do not reflect on my degree.
The University is not a confinement
The university has become a confinement for many people. Several people are restricted by the courses or the programs they are offering in school. It’s the social norm to believe that you’re supposed to get a job related to your degree. Business and economics majors believe they’re supposed to get accounting jobs.
Humanities major are often told that teaching is probably their only option.
Medical students are supposed to be nurses and doctors while Engineering students are supposed to become engineers. It surprises me when I hear people say they completed their education 5 years ago and still do not have a job.
I believe the root of this problem is our mindset and the pressures from society that says you must work in the field you studied in.
I believe that the experience and courses you take in school are supposed to prepare you for any path you want to take in life not limit you.
When you change your mindset from the norm, it opens you up to embrace and look beyond your boundaries. It enables you to learn outside your scope, take classes in a different course, learn something entirely different from what you know.
Explore!!!
I know business students who have built fashion brands that are doing so well. I know a medical student who owns a big hair extension shop. And I know a law student who is a great Tech person now. The moral of this article is that look beyond your degree.
There are so many opportunities out there to tap into. It might not be what you are learning in school, but it doesn’t stop you from taking part and actually learning about it.
The most important aspect of college are the experiences you build, the people you meet and the skills you acquire.
At the end of the day, the first class or second class or whatever grade you get can get you somewhere. But your ability to lead, speak, empower people, the skills you have and the influence you exert on people is what will make you stand out from the rest.
So I encourage you to explore. Start a business and fail. Go for a seminar. Talk to friends . Learn a new course. Save money and look beyond your wildest dreams. And by all means enjoy the experience because when its over, you are going to miss it. Dear Millennial’s, don’t let your degree confine you.
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Written By: Bibiana Owusu Prempeh Gyasi
Well said!
Thank you Romoke.