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Derrick Lee
7,743 PointsShould I get a degree?
Hi guys,
I recently graduated from polytechnic and will soon be pursuing my degree in a local university in Singapore. A local university programme will last 4 years and I'll be 27 when I finish my degree.
I have this gut feeling to not further my education and instead, go all out during this 4 years and get a job in the relevant industry or start my own business.
As the education system and universities in Singapore are overwhelming and very competitive, I doubt I will have time to do anything else, have a social life, or even start my own business while I'm taking my degree.
So far, I have been accepted by three different local universities, in computer science, computer engineering and information systems.
Should I or should I not take a degree, and if I should take a degree, should I even be taking a computer science/engineering/information systems degree?
I feel that I don't need 4 years of education in computer science to make me a better programmer or 4 years of education in computer engineering to make me a better engineer.
I really need your suggestions and feedback and perhaps share your experience with me.
2 Answers
Richard Duncan
5,568 PointsI think when you're younger (I'm 30 now) your impulse is to want to do everything straight away. There's no doubt that if you get a degree and take it seriously you will learn skills that will benefit you.
That being said I opted out and went straight into work, a big push for me personally making that decision was my family's business went under in the same year. I went into work straight from college at 18 and have worked hard ever since. The company that I work for are great trainers and have paid for my education so that I now have qualifications a salary and perks.
I guess my answer is that there is more than one way to cook an egg, but you should never stop learning no matter what route you decide to take. Hope this helps. Ultimately it's your decision, talk to your friends and family but in the end it's you that has to live with it.
Jo Cavagnis
2,304 PointsPerhaps have a look a job vacancies in the field you want to work in and see what it is they are looking for do a majority ask for a degree or for work experience? How many opportunities are there for you to enter the workforce with your current experience? You may even want to compile a list of aspirational companies that you dream of working for and see what experience they are looking for.
University isn't just about learning from your peers, it's also about learning from and collaborating with other students too. It's about challenging your ideas and pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone. If you don't go to university now you may never get the chance again so whatever you choose, choose wisely and take your time!