Should I Go to University?

*Collaborative post*

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As a teenager you are faced with a lot of extremely important decisions regarding your future and you may feel a little overwhelmed, not knowing if you are doing what is best for you. I have teamed up with the “number one” sixth form in London, to offer you the following information to help you decide whether university is the most suitable option for you.

There are, of course, numerous different reasons for choosing to go to university; from learning more about a subject you’re passionate about to becoming more independent. It might even be for the social side of the experience, which has its own set of benefits. You will develop new skills, both academic and personal, and make lifelong friends. If you understand more about why you’re considering university as an option in the first place, you should be able to determine if it is truly the right path for you. Is it because your friends are all going or is it because you want to fulfil your life-long goal to become a doctor? It can seem like some people know what they want to do with their life from the start. Some want to be nurses, some want to work as a teacher while others might want to get into digital or copywriting services.

Bear in mind that there are huge differences between secondary school and university; you will no longer have teachers giving you reminders to hand your essays on time and you’re far less likely to be given leeway for missed deadlines. You will need to have the motivation to get yourself to lectures and be accountable for your own learning in order to succeed. What’s more, you will need to learn how to cope with everyday situations, especially if you’re planning to move away from home. Do you think you’re ready to take on new responsibilities such as cooking, cleaning, paying bills and keeping up with your assignments?

If you’re worried about finances, you can apply for student loans. Do not use this as a reason to rule out university. Do your research and find out more about student finance before you make your choice. Be sure to find out all about the ins and outs of student debt and consider whether or not you will be better off in the future after getting adegree. Both public and private schools will be able to offer you plenty of advice regarding university, so don’t be afraid to take advantage of the information that’s on offer.

Are you unsure about going to university? I graduated university nearly a decade ago and time has flown by and things have changed but I am so glad I decided to stay on in education after sixth form and I am glad I took on a degree in computer science as it was something I was passionate at the time and even though my full time job is not related to what I studied, it definitely helped me in the sales office and also has helped in day to day life with my hobby of blogging. I was never sure what I wanted as a career so I went for something I enjoyed and that I thought would be practical. I also stayed at home with my parents so it wasn’t so daunting moving out. It is always worth looking into local universities so you can save on accommodation if you can.

Sarah x