Choosing a university degree is probably one of the most difficult decisions you’ll make during your life. It’s not just about picking a subject you’re good at or one that offers job stability and security—it’s about choosing a path that aligns with who you are and the kind of life you want to live.
Many students make choices based on pressure from family, society, or financial expectations, but the truth is, your degree should reflect your passions, interests, and aspirations.
Let’s be honest—studying something you hate is the perfect recipe for a disaster. If you’re going to spend three or more years learning about a subject, it should at least be something that excites you. That’s why you may ask yourself: what topics make me curious? What subjects do I enjoy reading about or discussing? What do I find myself doing in my free time? For example, if you love writing and storytelling, a degree in literature or journalism might be a good fit– our behavings reveal much more about us than what we think.
However, passions alone aren’t always enough: it’s fondamental to think about where that passion can bring you. If financial stability is a top priority, you might want to look into degrees that lead to well-paying jobs. Otherwise if freedom and flexibility matter more to you, careers more dynamic could be a better match..
Another key factor to consider is the lifestyle you want, both during and post university. Different careers come with different conditions: do you enjoy working indoors or outdoors? Do you prefer a structured routine or a flexible schedule? Do you want to live in a big city, or would you rather work remotely from anywhere in the world?
You need to understand if you have a preference on a specific environment or not. For instance if you decide to become a doctor you have to realize that you’ll have to face a specific type of schedule; more packed and stressful with a surgeon.
About the studying years themselves there are jobs that require a given degree: for example law; and that of course demand many many hours spent reading and analysing books.
It’s all based on the kind of person everyone is and his attitude at life.
While passion and lifestyle matter, it’s also important to be realistic. Some degrees offer better job prospects than others. Before committing to a course, research the job market and potential salaries. What’s the employment rate for graduates in that field? Are there opportunities for career growth?
It’s also worth considering how industries are changing. Some careers that were once stable are now shrinking due to economic shifts, while others are booming. You mustn’t pick a degree solely based on job security, but being aware of market trends can help you make a more informed decision.
If you’re unsure about your degree choice, try gaining some experience before committing. Internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs can give you a better idea of what a field is really like. Talking to professionals who are already working in your areas of interest can also help. Sometimes, what sounds exciting in theory isn’t as enjoyable in practice, so testing is a great way to try to avoid regretting your choice later.
Many universities also offer flexible study options, allowing you to switch majors or combine different subjects. If you have multiple interests, you might consider a double course of study or a minor in another field.
Choosing a university degree isn’t just about what’s popular or what pays well—it’s about what fits you as a person. Think about what excites you, where you want to be in the future, and what kind of lifestyle you want. Balance passion with practicality, and don’t be afraid to explore different options before making a final decision. Also remember that we’re all humans: it’s normal to mess up sometimes, everyone is allowed to change his mind and choose another path. It’s not a waste of time, it’s just a gain of life experience.
At the end of the day, your degree should be a stepping stone to a fulfilling and enjoyable life, not just a piece of paper. So take your time, do your research, and choose what makes your eyes sparkle.