What Skills and Learning Should You Pursue if Not in Higher Education?
Higher education provides a solid foundation, but your journey of learning goes far beyond the classroom. Whether you have completed your degree or not, there are countless opportunities to enrich your knowledge and enhance your skills. In this article, we will discuss practical steps and information that can help you navigate your learning journey outside of a traditional university setting.
Why Learning is Personal and Continuous
Once a degree from a university can be likened to a learner’s permit for driving. It offers a foundation that you can build upon, but true education flourishes when you take that permit out and hit the road. Every bit of information you seek is personal, driven by your interests and goals. As an analogy, a good teacher is like a midwife; they guide the process, prepare the way, but ultimately, the journey lies within you. The willingness to pursue knowledge defines your education.
Expanding Your Learning Horizons
In the realm of further education, options like community colleges and colleges of further education offer a wealth of opportunities. Whether your passion lies in fashion design, electronics engineering, or something entirely new, learning is an adventure you embark on in your own time. Personal experience can be just as enriching as formal education. I, for example, graduated from electronics engineering in 1972 when digital audio was still a nascent field. Yet, in the 2000s, I designed digital audio distribution and signal processing systems without ever completing a single course. What fueled my success was a relentless pursuit of knowledge and application.
Essential Skills for the Modern Workplace
The skills you need today often go beyond what traditional education can provide. Here are some crucial areas to explore:
Financial Literacy
Understanding how to manage your money, invest wisely, and handle various life situations financially is a must. Skills like balancing a budget, saving for emergencies, and creating a retirement plan are invaluable. For instance, studying economics through a publication like The Economist can provide you with the insights you need to navigate financial markets effectively.
Hands-On Practical Skills
While theory is essential, practical skills can set you apart. Learning how to perform essential tasks such as changing a tire, caring for a child, or performing CPR can be life-saving. These skills are often acquired through personal experience and self-directed learning.
Technical Proficiencies
Stay updated on new technologies and learn useful applications. In the world of electronics, for example, a degree in the 1970s doesn’t make you obsolete as a digital audio designer in the 2000s. Continuous learning and adapting to new technologies are key.
Navigating the Job Market
Understanding the job market is crucial for career readiness. Here are some practical steps to follow:
Decide on Your Desired Career Path
Identify the job you want to pursue. Be clear about your immediate goals; don’t waffle. If a degree can get you into several positions, that’s good. But understand what those positions entail and the level of experience required.
Research Job Postings
Look at the job postings for your desired career. Pay attention to the requirements, the number of positions available, and the age of the postings. Many industries, especially technology, favor candidates with 5 years of experience and often have difficulty filling entry-level roles.
Seek Practical Experience
There is a significant advantage in gaining practical experience through co-op programs or internships. Employers often prefer candidates with relevant experience over those with just a degree. Try to delay graduation until you can secure such positions. This proactive approach can significantly enhance your resume and improve your job prospects.
In Conclusion
Your education is an ongoing journey, not confined to the walls of a university. Continuous learning and acquiring practical skills can be the difference between success and mediocrity in your career. Embrace the challenge and be open to new opportunities. What you learn and how you apply that knowledge is what truly matters in the long run.