Questions about education after secondry school - Page 3

Aragorn1 · 07-19-2005, 07:03 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Lavindathar:
In your second year, you must take 3 A-levels. So, if you take 4 AS you can drop 1. Take 5, you can drop 1 or 2.

I know someone that took 2, as he decided not to got to uni. You can also take more than 3, increasingly people are taking 4 a-levels, toincrease theor chances of getting in to the top universities, where competition is fierce.

Also, you can drop courses latter than two weeks, or at least at my college you could, you just had to have a better reason that 'don't like it much/can't be bothered any more.' If you really feel that you can't handle it they will let you drop it, or should, they can't really force you to do it, its voluntary after all.

[ 07-19-2005, 07:04 AM: Message edited by: Aragorn1 ]

Greything · 07-20-2005, 07:43 PM

I really hesitate to post a reply on something as important to you as this and which only you can decide. You already have some good advice and, yes, if the colleges come to your school then go talk to them.

First point to make is that in the UK job market you will be better off having a University/College degree than not. If you want to move overseas I'm sure the same will apply.

Second is to pick a subject you want to do. A lot of people find themselves with the wrong subject and drop out. Others just coast along and get a lower degree than they are capable of. If you like IT then you could always think about combining it with something else, say, business studies or even law. Look at the various University prospectuses and see what options they can offer you.

Third is to go to as many open days as you can and see which place you find most appealing. Ask as many questions as you can about your options and how their system works. They will answer all your questions. The University wants you there as its grant depends on the numbers it attracts

Fouth is to use the first year to explore a range of subjects. Going by my son's recent experience, the first year is an introduction in which you choose a range of subjects which may or may not be related to your main area of interest (don't be too random - you'll still be expected to do well in all of them and establish some sort of standard for yourself). Some people change their degree course at this stage or refine it by adding other options. You will have to focus in years two and three as the marks here are the ones that count towards your degree. Check this at the open day

Finally, you may well have to move to and live in another part of the country. Have no illusions. This will be difficult at first but worthwhile for the independence it gives you and the friends you will make.

Aragorn1 · 07-21-2005, 05:07 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Greything:
If you like IT then you could always think about combining it with something else, say, business studies or even law.

Be aware though that this will almost certainly not be an LLB but a BA. THis is important as only a LLB will allow you to continue your legal training. Although this is something that you do not seem inclined towards, it is something you must consider. If you are certain you don't want to go further with the law, then not having an LLB won't be a problem.

Oh, if you;ve got any questions about the process I may be able to help, as I ahve just left college and am (grades permitting) going to uni in October, so I may be able to answer specific questions that others may not, unless things have changed since last year that is

[ 07-21-2005, 05:09 AM: Message edited by: Aragorn1 ]

cocobolomike · 07-21-2005, 03:12 PM

Ivelliis,
It's one thing planning a career but try to explore subjects you enjoy or want to find out more about...enthusiasm can take you a long way! Flexibility is also key..i did science A levels ,went to Uni and read chemistry but then worked in investment banking where i met my wife (an oxford grad in mandarin chinese!!)I've since quit the city and now run my own bespoke fine furniture business so who know's what life will bring you ...go for something that you enjoy, work hard and opportunities will come your way. You are an individual and only live once...even large corporates are now looking for people with a variety of experience,travel too, so don't think that by straying from the "usual " path you would be giving up the opportunity to progress in certain careers.I'll stop now before i get too parental !!
Cheers, good luck and have fun ..Cocobolomike

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07-20-2005, 07:43 PM	#22
Greything Drizzt Do'Urden Join Date: June 25, 2004 Location: UK Posts: 633	I really hesitate to post a reply on something as important to you as this and which only you can decide. You already have some good advice and, yes, if the colleges come to your school then go talk to them. First point to make is that in the UK job market you will be better off having a University/College degree than not. If you want to move overseas I'm sure the same will apply. Second is to pick a subject you want to do. A lot of people find themselves with the wrong subject and drop out. Others just coast along and get a lower degree than they are capable of. If you like IT then you could always think about combining it with something else, say, business studies or even law. Look at the various University prospectuses and see what options they can offer you. Third is to go to as many open days as you can and see which place you find most appealing. Ask as many questions as you can about your options and how their system works. They will answer all your questions. The University wants you there as its grant depends on the numbers it attracts Fouth is to use the first year to explore a range of subjects. Going by my son's recent experience, the first year is an introduction in which you choose a range of subjects which may or may not be related to your main area of interest (don't be too random - you'll still be expected to do well in all of them and establish some sort of standard for yourself). Some people change their degree course at this stage or refine it by adding other options. You will have to focus in years two and three as the marks here are the ones that count towards your degree. Check this at the open day Finally, you may well have to move to and live in another part of the country. Have no illusions. This will be difficult at first but worthwhile for the independence it gives you and the friends you will make.

07-21-2005, 03:12 PM	#24
cocobolomike Elite Waterdeep Guard Join Date: July 5, 2005 Location: Poole,uk Age: 57 Posts: 10	Ivelliis, It's one thing planning a career but try to explore subjects you enjoy or want to find out more about...enthusiasm can take you a long way! Flexibility is also key..i did science A levels ,went to Uni and read chemistry but then worked in investment banking where i met my wife (an oxford grad in mandarin chinese!!)I've since quit the city and now run my own bespoke fine furniture business so who know's what life will bring you ...go for something that you enjoy, work hard and opportunities will come your way. You are an individual and only live once...even large corporates are now looking for people with a variety of experience,travel too, so don't think that by straying from the "usual " path you would be giving up the opportunity to progress in certain careers.I'll stop now before i get too parental !! Cheers, good luck and have fun ..Cocobolomike

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