8 Advantages of Choosing Work over Study ...

By Alison

With certain careers, it’s essential to undertake a course of study first. You wouldn’t want a doctor who knew nothing about the human body! However, there are good reasons why you can be better off not studying at university and going into work instead. Here are some of them.

1. Avoiding Debt

Avoiding Debt Photo Credit: bitzcelt

Being a student is very, very expensive, and paying off loans will take you years.When you total up the amount you pay in interest, is it really worth it?

2. Vocational Pays

Vocational Pays Photo Credit: deadcraft

There will always be a demand for plumbers etc, so choosing practical training over academic study can lead to a more lucrative career. Such professions may still be regarded as predominantly male, but technically there is no reason why women can’t enter them.

3. Too Many Degrees

Too Many Degrees Photo Credit: Alan Hudson Photography

In the UK, the last government set a target of getting 50% of school leavers into university. As a result, degrees have been effectively devalued as so many people have them. This leads to employers asking for degrees when previously the same job needed much lower qualifications, just because they can.

4. Not Suited

Not Suited Photo Credit: Fluroscent Adolescent

Not everyone is academically minded. For some people, studying is just not something they enjoy, and they may have other useful talents and skills.

5. Climb the Ladder

Climb the Ladder Photo Credit: eneias_santana

Sometimes starting at the bottom and working your way up can get you further than a degree. By the time your peers have graduated (in debt), you could be in a much higher position than they will be able to start with.

6. Learn While You Work

Learn While You Work Photo Credit: Pictoscribe

Working full-time doesn’t mean an end to your chances of studying. It may take longer, but you can study at night school or follow a distance learning course. Your employer may even sponsor you to take relevant courses.

7. What Degree?

What Degree? Photo Credit: Little Miss Sunshine.

There are numerous examples of entrepeneurs who do not have a university education, or even dropped out of school without gaining any qualifications. While we can’t all make millions, it is entirely possible to build a successful small business without having studied.

8. There’s Always Later …

There’s Always Later … Photo Credit: lanuiop

The popular view is that you have to study when you are young. However, this is often the worst time. It may be better to establish yourself financially by working, and consider beginning to study at a later stage, when you can afford to fund yourself.

I’m all in favour of education, but recognise that formal study is not for everyone. With the days long gone when a degree was a sure route to a well-paid job, the costs of studying mean that it has to be considered carefully whether it’s worth it. What do you think – is studying essential, or have you done fine without it? Would you want your children to be in debt for their education?

Top Photo Credit: crookedspeak

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do some students choose to work instead of studying?
Some students feel that working gives them practical experience and immediate financial benefits, which helps them in real life. They might find real-world work more engaging than classroom learning.
Are there any benefits to working before going to university?
Oh definitely! Working before university can give you a taste of the real-world, teach you discipline, and even help you save some money for tuition or living expenses.
Can studying too much be bad?
Yes, it can. Overstudying can lead to burnout, stress, and even a decrease in productivity. It's super important to have a balance between study, work, and rest.
What if I prefer working over studying?
That's totally okay! Everyone's path is different. You might find working more fulfilling or better suited to your goals. The important thing is to pursue what makes you happy and fulfilled.
Is it good to switch between work and study?
Switching between work and study can be beneficial. It can give you a fresh perspective, and you can use skills from one to enhance the other. Just make sure to manage your time well.
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