Going to university is a big decision to make, yet so many of us feel pushed into the higher education system by our parents, peers and teachers.
Going to university for the right reasons
There are several reasons why someone might go to university.
Personally I decided to follow my dreams of having my own beauty brand, and studying cosmetic sciences would allow me to have a foot in the door in the cosmetics industry.
If you want to pursue a higher education to better your future, then you should absolutely go for it.
Going to university for the wrong reasons
If you are going to university because it's simply 'the natural thing to do', then I would strongly urge you to think again.
There are so many options out there for you, and if you're still not convinced - take some time to think about it, as it is a huge commitment.
The reality of attending university
Uni is not easy. You will actually have to study and work hard in amongst all the parties and freedom.
If you do not go to university for the right reasons, then you will struggle to find the motivation to carry on - and we wouldn't want you t o waste that 9.5K now do we?
Not certain about your future?
You're probably 17-19, and you're making huge life choices right now! If it were up to me I would have everyone take a gap year and find who they are before they even consider looking at their futures.
But the reality is, the government, our parents and teachers as well as ourselves expect us to have everything figured out already. Cut yourself a bit of slack if you're struggling to find what you really want to be doing for the next 3-5 years of your life. It's okay to not know yet!
Other options
I know so many believes going to university is an amazing and prestigious thing, and that if you go you'll be better off than those who didn't.
Yet realistically, everyone has the same 3 years after finishing college, some might spend it gaining a degree, others having an apprenticeship and job or even building their own business.
No matter what you decide to do in the future - spend those years wisely, you're only young once.