How to choose the right educational path
Many students break out in a cold sweat at the prospect of having to choose which school is the key to a successful profession and, in the long run, the life they desire.
The following points are important to consider before choosing.
Choosing which degree and university to apply to is arguably the most difficult element of the application process. What kind of university environment do you want to be in? Do you know what you want to do with your life? These choices can have a significant impact on your future, and with so many options, it’s understandable that they can make you feel overwhelmed.
Share your thoughts with others
Some young people tend to disregard other people’s opinions because they are afraid of being influenced by others’ beliefs of what is proper for them. As a result, they dive into a never-ending web search, but this does not mean that they are more sure in their final decision.
Henriette Holmegaard, associate professor and researcher in educational choices at the University of Copenhagen, says:
“Instead of going and fiddling with your thoughts alone, it can be good to share immediate thoughts with friends and family and at the same time seek advice from a study counsellor. There is a potential in the study counsellor being able to bring the young people together in some counselling situations, where they can share their thoughts with others in the same situation.”
Get the feel or experience of the course or campus at an open day
When it comes to our educational choices, passion for a subject is not always enough. Factors such as whether to commute a long distance and be apart from family and friends, the study culture (for example, whether the study is more practical or theoretical) and the types of jobs available on the other side all play a role
Therefore it is great to get in touch with the university that you are considering. Many universities can be contacted online, they might have students available to chat to about their experience or you can visit the campus during the open days. The online open days are now more common and allow students from abroad to learn first-hand about the university or campus that they are considering.
If a student is unable to attend an open day, several some schools make open day recordings and on-demand content available on their websites.
Use personalized support
When approaching an education counsellor, students get expert advice from people who have a lot of experience advising students on university selections and applications. When advising students with their university application, education counsellors will assess their background, qualifications, hopes, and goals. This guidance is designed to help students make the best decision possible about their future.
While it is essential to consider all options before choosing a course of study, there is no assurance that students will make the appropriate decision in the first place. It’s vital to remember that along the road, there’s an opportunity to steer learning more in the direction of students’ interests.
