Thoughts & Ponders: Is University Worth It?

Well it was the official start to my last and final year of university last week! There was a sense of the 'final hurdle', the 'light at the end of tunnel' and 'beginning of the end' moral around. We had been off since April (5 months) and in that short space of time I managed to get my bakery up and running amongst other things.

So in this final year I thought I would share my tips and lessons which i learnt the hard way and answer the question 'Is going to university really worth it?'

Reason for going
I hesitantly went back to university after a year out because my mum is one of those mothers that think education is everything. I kid you not, even if I was a self made business millionaire and bought her a Ferrari, she would still say "when will you get a degree?". So with the pressure mounting I gave in because I wanted her to see me graduate and have that proud moment.

The negative things I learnt
University is a business and it took me a while to realise that. The tutors may make out like they care and are there for you (which they are to a certain extent) but at the end of the day they have a department to run and fund. So think wisely before you become too trusting.

I know this may not apply to everyone, but university has made me hate my chosen subject. I had goals of becoming a performing arts teacher but now I couldn't want anything less. The course slowly ruined my love for the subject which is still such a shame to me.

The positive
It's the people you meet that make you enjoy university. I have made some wonderful friends who are pretty much in the same boat as me when it comes to views on uni. One actually wants to re train as a midwife (a far cry from a dance teacher)!




Although you may not chose the path of your chosen degree it doesn't mean you can take on board useful life lessons from your time. I am more confident in what my goals are now. I know what I want and when this academic year is over I feel I am ready to take it on. My three years has made realise there is more to life and you can't just sit around and wait for it to happen.

My advice
If you are considering going to uni make sure you truly enjoy your chosen subject. To a certain extent it is a waste of time when it comes to studying the arts as a whole. The business that includes dance, drama, art, fashion etc. is very much based on who you know and not what you know. Work hard, build up contacts and a name and that can be more valuable than any degree. Remember, there will be thousands of others who have degrees applying for the same jobs. The main thing that sets you apart is experience. Gain as much as you can alongside your course. It will be this invaluable experience which will set you apart and show great responsibility and drive.

Jess- Lady of Vintage xx