Questions to Ask Yourself Before Choosing the Right Programme

written by Rifha Deannah

Every programme is a one-of-a-kind mixture of many different elements, ranging from the core and elective subjects, the institution, and the job it lands. Depending on individual preferences, some students may find calculation fascinating, some students may find language enchanting. Nevertheless, choosing the ideal programme is not always rocket science! You may find yourself comparing two identical programmes from two institutions, or you may be tossing up between two completely different study fields. Therefore, here are some questions to ask yourself before you make the big decision:

1. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

It is extremely crucial to consider your interests and skills in choosing what to pursue. This very first question assists you in filtering out the field of studies and programmes that fit your personality the most. You need to acknowledge your biggest strength as it would push you far in the process of graduating and working. In the meantime, you also need to understand your weaknesses to ensure minimum struggles along the way. Thus, ask yourself about what comes naturally for you. For example, by going through your secondary school, you may have figured out your favorite and least favorite subjects. If you have always been exceptionally good in science subjects, you may want to consider healthcare, engineering, or any other science-related fields. Furthermore, one of the alternatives to determine the programme that fits your interest best is by doing an online self-assessment. You simply need to answer a few questions to begin browsing from a wide selection of possibilities for your preferred programme.

2. Where do you want to study?

The second question includes a much further perspective. Where do you want to study now and when furthering your study for higher education? The first part of the question can be answered by attending open days or university fairs to get insights of the programmes and universities from individuals with first-hand experiences such as education advisors,

lecturers, and alumni. You may also take the time to visit university websites to explore the facilities and reputations. Furthermore, if you wish to further your study abroad for higher education, you may want to choose a pre-university programme accordingly. For example, if you wish to continue your study in the USA, you may want to consider the American Degree Transfer Programme at INTEC Education College which enables a one-year worth of credit transfer for your bachelor’s degree. You also may want to do some research on which country specialised in your preferred field of study. It may be a country with a city that has direct access to specific resources such as Australia being the world’s largest coral reef, perfect if you are interested in marine biology.

3. What do you want to be?

There is zero use in pursuing a programme unless it prepares you for a successful future. The third question is crucial to ensure you take into consideration the type of career you wish to pursue upon graduating. Some careers require you to have a certain qualification such as a professional qualification for Accountancy or a specialist qualification for Dentistry and Nursing. Therefore, it is important to know what course and qualification level you need for your preferred career. For example, if you are a high school leaver, you have ample time to prepare your study path from the beginning. Aim for a specific career and take into consideration the duration and costs of the study. This equips you with adequate knowledge and skill sets once you are a fresh graduate. Despite the significance of choosing a perfect programme, there is always a chance for you to switch interests as you grow and explore more options. Thus, if you feel unsure halfway through your journey, it is never too late to go back to the drawing board. Occasionally, a stitch in time saves nine! You do not want to spend the next five years inhaling the textbooks you have little to no interest in. Indeed, this decision-making process takes ample time, however, never feel like it is too late to restart from zero. You can always reach for assistance and talk to an education advisor. At INTEC Education College, the education advisors warmly offer helping hands if you wish for personal guidance.

Find out more on opportunities with INTEC Education College by visiting us at

www.study.intec.edu.my or reach us at [email protected].