How do I make the right uni and course choice?

With more than 160 universities and a staggering 65,000 courses to choose from, it's no wonder the options can feel overwhelming 🤯 The decision you make will have a profound impact on your future, so it's crucial to choose wisely.

But don't worry - you've come to the right place! This comprehensive guide is packed with practical advice, designed to help you make an informed and confident decision.

How to Choose the Right Course 👩🎓

Already know what you want to study? 📚 Awesome! Skip ahead to tackle the next big question: how to choose the right university.

But if you're among the many who are still in the "I have no idea what I want to do with my life" phase 🤷, don't worry - you’re not alone. It’s perfectly normal to feel this way. The good news? You’ve got plenty of time and the tools you need to figure it out and join the ranks of the decided.

Start by asking yourself some key questions❓

1. What subjects did you enjoy most in school?
2. Do you have any hobbies or passions?
3. What are you naturally good at?
4. What would you do even if no one paid you to do it?
5. When you picture your ideal job, what does it look like?

Take some time to really reflect on these questions 🤔 The more honest and introspective you are, the better you'll understand yourself.

Next, jot down your thoughts and look for patterns or connections.

See any? Fantastic! 😁 You’ve just sketched out a basic profile of your potential future career. Now, start researching degrees that align with this profile.

Still unsure? No problem! 😅 Your list probably hints at a few different career paths. Use that as a starting point to explore job roles related to your interests. Dive into what those roles entail, the responsibilities involved, and the degrees required. With this information, you can narrow down which option best suits your personality, interests, and skills.

If you're still feeling stuck, take your list to your school’s academic advisor. They can offer valuable insights and guide you toward the right decision.

My Journey ✈️

I’ve been into self-help books since I was 14, fascinated by how we can improve our lives, how thoughts shape reality, and why we behave the way we do (can you guess what course I chose?).

I’m the go-to listener among friends and family, always ready with life advice. I enjoy meaningful conversations and can easily read emotions.

In school, Chemistry was the only subject I liked and excelled at, but the chemical industry didn’t match my dream job.

My ideal job? One where I set my own hours and face new challenges regularly - no room for boredom.

In the end, everything pointed to Psychology. After reading about the course, I knew it was the right fit. And here I am!

“Don’ts” ❌

Don’t choose a degree just because it promises a secure and well-paid job. That might seem tempting, but it could leave you unhappy in the long run. Remember, you’ll spend a huge chunk of your life working, so pick a degree and career path that truly excites you.

Don’t let everyone else’s opinions drown out the most important one - yours. This is your life we're talking about. You’ll be the one studying for three or more years and working in that field, not your parents, grandparents, or anyone else.

Whose grandma doesn’t dream of their grandchild becoming a doctor? Raise your hand! 🤚 But remember, this is YOUR future. Listen to your own voice first, because you’re building a life for yourself.

Don’t commit to a course without digging deep into its details - its description, structure, and assessment methods. With so many degrees out there, you should have specific expectations and find the one that meets most or all of them. Make sure your choice is informed and intentional.

Once you’ve got an idea of what course you want, it’s time to dive into the next big decision: choosing the right university.

Six Keys to Finding the Right University 6️⃣ 🏫

1. Entry Requirements

While motivation and determination can get you far, it's essential to be realistic about what entry criteria you can meet. Before diving into in-depth research on a university, ensure you have a good chance of being accepted. Focus your efforts on institutions where you can realistically gain admission.

2. First Impressions of the University

Never choose a university without experiencing it firsthand. Attending an open day or similar event is crucial - it gives you a true feel for the place. Pay attention to the atmosphere, friendliness of students and staff, and whether you can picture yourself there. Use open days to gather as much relevant information as possible about both the university and your course of interest.

3. Relevant Facilities

If you’re opting for a practical course, the availability of modern, well-equipped facilities is key. You wouldn't want to study architecture without getting hands-on experience in design, right? Also, consider your non-academic needs. Whether it’s access to a gym, sports clubs, or good dining options, make sure the university supports your lifestyle.

4. Extracurricular Opportunities

University life is about more than just earning a degree; it’s also about personal and professional growth. Look for universities that offer a wide range of extracurricular activities to help you develop new skills, gain experience, and explore different career paths. The freedom you have in university is an opportunity - use it to its fullest.

5. Career Support

Starting university can be overwhelming, especially when thinking about your future career. Choose a university that offers strong career support, helping you navigate your professional journey from day one. Access to unlimited, free career services can make a huge difference in preparing you for the job market.

6. The University’s City

The city where your university is located is more important than you might think. You’ll be spending several years there, so choose a place that feels welcoming and fits your lifestyle. Whether you want a part-time job, outdoor activities, or vibrant social life, make sure the city meets your needs. Also, consider the cost of living - some cities are much more affordable for students than others.

“Don’ts” vol. 2 ❌

Don’t just follow your friends when choosing a university. Your decision shapes your future, and true friends will stick with you no matter where you go. The rest aren’t worth the sacrifice. Trust me, you won’t be lonely - university is where you meet a diverse group of people and form lifelong friendships.

Don’t let your fears hold you back. Nervous about leaving home and adapting to a new environment? That’s exactly why you should go for it! Starting university is the perfect time to push your limits and grow.

I’ve been there, and let me tell you, there’s nothing more empowering than overcoming your fears and realising how much you’ve grown. Stepping out of your comfort zone a few times can lead to incredible personal transformation.

Don’t get caught up in overall university rankings. It’s your course that matters, not a high ranking based on something irrelevant to you, like Chemistry when you're not even interested in it. Focus on the rankings of specific courses to find the best fit for your interests.

You have the power to make a conscious choice, too. You can start a new chapter in your life, doing what drives your growth and creates the future you dream of. Ready to begin? 😝 Follow my tips and give yourself the time you need to make the best decision.

If I forgot about something, please share your piece of advice with us 🤗

I hope it was helpful! Fingers crossed for your choices! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions. You can also chat with me and other students directly through The Ambassador Platform.

Take care,

Julia
Psychology student
De Montfort University