While in high school, you might think of your future. You may have planned what you want to do or be confused with various career choices. Invest time exploring different careers that interest you and choose what jobs you wish to do. Find the academic prerequisites for those jobs and shortlist programs that meet those requirements. For programs requiring a university degree, understand why you should attend one, as it is an important decision that requires planning and commitment. Consider the following benefits of having a university degree if you are still unsure about studying there.
Better Career and Financial Prospects
At university, you will build your expertise and master your chosen field of study from teachers who are experts in their field. Apart from the subjects related to your career path, you can study other interesting topics too. You can have more career choices with your university degree and add more value to your resume.
A university degree will boost your chances of progressing in your career and a higher salary. According to Statistics Canada data, the median employment income for the Class of 2014 five years after graduation was CAD 60,100 with an undergraduate degree, compared to CAD 40,100 with a college-level certificate.
Meet People From Around the World
You will meet students from different places and backgrounds with different ideas, which makes for an enriched, diverse learning experience. You will make new friends and build a professional network.
Explore Extracurricular Activities
Extracurriculars build on teamwork, communication, leadership, and time management skills that graduate schools and employers look for in prospective students and employees. With the hundreds of clubs and societies that universities offer, you can take part in extracurricular activities and grow your skills and talents. For example, Queen’s University has about 300 clubs that students can join, ranging from academics and arts to sports and social issues. Extracurricular activities, events, and parties can enrich your university experience, but they should not be a deciding factor for attending university.
Become Independent
University is an excellent opportunity to learn how to make decisions, manage finances, complete your work, and grow your mind as an independent thinker.
Gain Work Experience
Universities offer work experience options through co-op and internships, depending on the program. Most employers prefer hiring students with industry-related work experience during their undergraduate program. Apart from gaining relevant work experience to add to your resume, you get paid for most internships and co-ops. For example, the University of Waterloo has the most extensive co-op program in North America, with a network of over 70,000 co-op employers. Students do four to six co-ops during their undergraduate degree, allowing them to work, explore prospective careers, and earn money.
Study Abroad Opportunities
It is possible to get a university degree abroad by doing your entire degree or spending a term or a year in another country. You can learn and practice foreign languages and improve your communication skills. It will help you develop confidence in adapting to unfamiliar environments. Many universities have student exchange programs with other universities that allow students to broaden their knowledge in their field of study in different locations. Read our blog, “What Are Study Abroad Programs?” to learn more about the advantages of these programs and how they can help you achieve your personal, academic and professional goals.
Conclusion
Regardless of what you want to pursue, going to university can build a solid foundation for a successful career. Though university graduates typically have better employment opportunities, a well-paying job should not be the only reason for attending university. Hence, choose a career path you are passionate about for a meaningful professional life.
University education requires hard work, so be realistic and plan accordingly. Read our blog, “Whom Should You Talk to When Searching for University?” to learn how people around you can help you prepare for post-secondary education. If you want to discuss your future career options and understand if a university education would fit you, contact us at admissionelements@gmail.com.
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