In this post-independence era, it is an individual's dream to pursue higher
education in a tertiary institution. Recently, this dream has become a reality
as the number of public and private tertiary institutions has grown rapidly.
Consequently, many high school graduates are competing for a place in these
institutions because they are promised job security and stable income once they
have a degree. However, our country is not well prepared, resulting in increased
unemployment among tertiary graduates. Therefore, students who aspire to
continue their education should identify the necessary steps before pursuing
higher education. The first step is to choose a course or field of study that
is of interest and suitable for the student. This step is important because many
students fail to complete their studies due to lack of interest in their chosen
course. It is essential because an interest in the course helps students to
focus and gain a deeper understanding of the subjects studied. For example, if a
student is more interested in the arts, but chooses to major in engineering, it
requires more effort to pass exams and earn a degree. Students need to better
understand themselves and their abilities so as not to waste time and
opportunities when continuing their studies. Parents and families should provide
moral support to family members who want to pursue higher education in their
chosen field for the common good in the future.
In addition, students need to make rational decisions that determine their
future. Before applying to continue their studies, students need to analyze the
current job market to ensure that the courses chosen promise employment
opportunities immediately after completing their studies. Today, we see an
increase in unemployment rates among tertiary graduates, and many of them have
to leave their field of study to find work due to economic pressure. Therefore,
students who are new to continuing their studies are advised to choose courses
that are in line with the country's and the world's economic demand. Supporting
the country's Industry 4.0 revolution by choosing courses in technology and
skills that guarantee students' higher education is an action that is not
wasted.
The next step in preparing to continue higher education is to ensure that
students have sufficient funds. We cannot deny that a lot of funds are needed
when continuing education at a tertiary level. Expenses such as tuition fees,
hostel fees, and food and drink expenses must be borne by the student throughout
their studies in tertiary institutions. However, various initiatives can be
taken by students to obtain financial aid when continuing their studies.
Scholarship applications are the best alternative to ensuring that students can
pay tuition fees while achieving the best results in their studies, which is a
requirement for receiving scholarships. Not only does it help students settle
their education debts without spending their own money, but they also have a
great opportunity in the workforce as scholarship recipients.
In the meantime, the main step that students need to take is to equip
themselves in areas such as academic qualifications and involvement in
co-curricular activities. This is a general requirement for a student to
continue their studies at a higher level. If students are interested in working
as a professional, such as a doctor, architect, etc., they need to work harder
to gain the required qualifications and skills.
In conclusion, students who want to continue their education should follow
these steps to better prepare themselves before entering the world of tertiary
education. These steps can help them avoid wasting time and opportunities,
increase their chances of employment, and prepare them to become better-equipped
professionals in the future. |