In Pursuit of Degrees...

The Sunday Star two weeks ago had a very well written commentary piece with regards to the pursuit of education and degrees. These are definitely words to remember for anyone intending to take education for what it should be instead of the "corrupted" version many in our society take it for.

On education fairs and marketing hype:

Education fairs and college open houses are in season and it is hard sometimes to distinguish a real deal from a sales pitch.

Of Degrees & Employment:

Tertiary education is no longer the preserve of the select few. There are many options available at home and abroad. The majority of those seeking a degree are mindful of the vocational pursuits available to them once they graduate.

But, as recent trends have shown, a degree is not necessarily a passport to a better job. With a bigger pool to choose from, employers can be more selective. Soft skills become a premium. A first class honours without the all-round skills will definitely not put you at the top of the career shortlist.

On Critical Thinking & other soft skills:

Interact with your lecturers. Challenge their viewpoints. Broaden your horizons. Throw in all the extra-curricular activities and you will be able to hone those skills that are very much in demand in the real world.

On Parents:

... parents must encourage their children to make full use of their potential and take on their pursuit of education with renewed zeal. Otherwise, all they will have after this journey is nothing more than a piece of paper.

Take heed.