Studying Abroad 101: Choosing the Right Course For You

Studying abroad has gained steam over the years and more students are beginning to realise the massive benefit it has on their personal and professional development. But before choosing to study abroad, you must first understand what your interests are, what you find joy in doing and what you will excel at. 

Many students have no idea what they want to study in college or university, hence they make decisions they later regret. That is why many students tend to change courses halfway through college once they realise they aren’t studying a course they love. But we’re here to help. Choosing the right course is vital because it influences how well you do in college/university, what college you go to and what country you decide to study in. This article asks the most important questions that will help you make the right decision. 

WHAT IS YOUR WHY?

This is the most important question you need to ask yourself. Do you want to pursue a career that requires a degree? Are you trying to extend your skill set? Or are you simply going to college because your friends are? Knowing the answer to your why will help you make a better decision. 

WHAT ARE YOUR SKILLS AND INTERESTS?

You need to think about what you are interested in. You have to evaluate your skills and abilities and pick a course with subjects that align with your skills. Are you more science inclined or do you like History, technology or art? Choosing a program with subjects you’re interested in will definitely ensure you stay engaged in school and give you a better chance of succeeding.

However, sometimes what you want isn’t what you’re good at. You may like law but your mind is more artistic; this is a sign that you should go for art courses. But if you love gadgets and find that you understand how tech works, then go for tech courses like IT, data science etc.

What’s important is that you enrol in a course that allows you to explore both your interests and your abilities. 

WHAT EXPERIENCE DO YOU HAVE?

This goes hand-in-hand with your skills and interests but is more important. While you should know what your interests and skills are, don’t forget to remember what you can offer. Before selecting a course to study, you should ask yourself if your past experiences align with the course or not. If you’re afraid of heights, perhaps it isn’t a good idea to study to be a pilot. Or you shouldn’t study medicine or nursing if you get nauseated when you see blood. 

Your life and job experiences should align with the course you want to study. In most cases, conflicting experiences often lead to students changing their courses halfway or dropping out entirely and you don’t want that, do you?

WHAT ARE YOUR LONG-TERM GOALS/PROSPECTS?

One overlooked yet very important factor many students overlook is the earning potential of the course they decide to study. No, it is not too early to think of the future. And yes, money isn’t everything. But, you still have to make a living. You should have an idea of the various opportunities waiting for you if you study a particular course. If financial stability is your reason for going to college, then you should be looking at courses with huge growth potential and upsides. 

This is crucial for those who decide to study abroad because of the tuition fees and other factors. Hence, you will want to choose a course that gives you personal and financial satisfaction.

WHAT IS YOUR PREFERRED METHOD OF STUDY?

Are you more of a hands-on student who likes practical lessons? Do you prefer online classes where you can sit by yourself and focus? Or do you like the competitive nature of in-person classes? Some students prefer to have final exams, others like regular assignments better, or theoretical lessons etc. You may like to work in a group while another student could prefer to work solo. 

You should know what style and method of learning you like and feel comfortable in so you can be and give your best. And if you like challenges, you can decide to pick a course that forces you to step out of your comfort zone. 

WHAT IS THE BEST COURSE STUDY FOR YOU?

Diploma or degrees, which works best for you? Diploma programs focus on practical and technical skills while degree programs put an emphasis on wide theoretical knowledge. Because of the nature of the workplace, many companies are looking to hire competency and experience over educational attainment. But this doesn’t mean you should skip conventional degrees, they too play a massive role in society, afterall, you can’t be a doctor or a lawyer without going to university. 

However, there are many high-paying and fulfilling jobs in today’s society that you can apply for by simply having a trade certificate or college diploma. 

THE HEART WANTS WHAT IT WANTS

You’ve answered all these questions and you know what you finally want to do, the last question then becomes; are you happy with your decision? It makes no point if you choose a course that looks right to the world and society but doesn’t feel right to you. Choose a course that will keep your juices flowing when the hard times roll. Choose what your heart wants.

Because at the end of the day, the one constant in life is change. You may want apples today but decide to go for oranges tomorrow, and that’s okay. You’re human and your interests change as you grow and learn more. Even though choosing the right course will help you move in the right direction, if you decide to do something else in the future, you can always course correct, pun intended.

But if you need professional help in making this all-too important decision, schedule a free consultation with our experts today. We will help you pick a course that aligns with your skills and interests.