Everyone is faced with the choice of furthering their education or pursuing work experience in their desired industry. Most already know what they prefer and where they will thrive, but not everyone has this luck. With your future at stake, the last thing you want to do is make a decision that might set you back, so if you’re wondering whether education or experience is the correct choice right now, here are a few things to consider.
Education
Structure
Many people will opt for education because it provides a structure they are familiar with. Going straight for school to work can often intimidate and overwhelm, but a university or college course will feel more comfortable. If you’re studying something completely different to pursue your dream job, such as the Keiser University nutritionist program, this structure is essential for maintaining some semblance of normality as you grow.
Employability
You likely grew up being told that college degrees make you more employable, and this still holds true in some industries. After graduating, your college degree can (but won’t always) make up for your lack of real-world experience. It can also help you get a job in other industries or countries while you wait for your big break.
Versatility
Education is not merely about teaching you from a book. It also gives you the chance to master essential soft skills that will benefit you in the workplace including discipline and time management. This versatility is appealing to employers and could offer you plenty of opportunities early in your career.
Experience
On the Job
Sometimes, you can’t get a better introduction than being on the job. While you may not know what to do on your first day (and perhaps not even your second), going immediately into work will give you the chance to learn office dynamics and get an idea of how interpersonal relationships work. If you’re young, you will mature much faster, which could benefit your career.
A Foot in the Door
Everybody knows how important networking is in the modern world, and you can’t always do this at university. Often, students are too busy enjoying the freedoms that have come to them, which means any legitimate work is put in second place. However, by going straight into work and getting valuable experience, you can network and meet people that might be able to help you progress in your career in the future. The more you impress, the better your chances.
Earning Money
If you want to get a headstart compared to your contemporaries, the money-earning potential of experience is difficult to turn down. Of course, not every experience has this luxury, and some companies will offer unpaid internships while dangling the carrot of employment. Although these internships can be desirable, you still need to know your worth and be compensated fairly for your time.
Your Choice
You are not the same as your friends or family, and this means you won’t have the same desires that they do. When deciding whether to continue further education or go into work experience, think about what you want, and don’t let others influence your journey
