15 answers
Kenzie
Student
Charleston, Illinois
1
Question
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What are some of the things that pushed you to gain a degree?
What are some of the things that pushed you to gain a degree? I'm struggling to find joy in college even with the end game in sight.
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15 answers
David Alaniz
Program Management
3
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
David’s Answer
1. For the first time in my family's history, the door to pursuing a higher degree swung open.
2. I was fortunate to be guided by exceptional educators in school who emphasized fundamental knowledge.
3. Participating in diverse extracurricular activities like music, sports, and math competitions broadened my perspective and enriched my experiences.
4. My grandmother was my driving force, constantly inspiring me to reach greater heights.
2. I was fortunate to be guided by exceptional educators in school who emphasized fundamental knowledge.
3. Participating in diverse extracurricular activities like music, sports, and math competitions broadened my perspective and enriched my experiences.
4. My grandmother was my driving force, constantly inspiring me to reach greater heights.
Patricia Cernat
Summer Analyst
23
Answers
Dublin, County Dublin
Updated
Patricia’s Answer
It's the quickest way to secure a high paying jobs. While of course there are people who have risen the ranks from small entry level positions, its difficult gaining a start in a company unless you have a college degree. A college degree is a long commitment (3 years at a minimum) and with the financial strain it may cause it may feel difficult to justify it if you don't enjoy it. However, a college degree is almost a sure fire way to land a decent paying job and achieve financial freedom.
I advise that you find a way to enjoy college by; making great friends, joining clubs that interest you and choosing modules that you enjoy. It is much easier to finish college when you look at it is a learning experience as opposed to a punishment!
I advise that you find a way to enjoy college by; making great friends, joining clubs that interest you and choosing modules that you enjoy. It is much easier to finish college when you look at it is a learning experience as opposed to a punishment!
Jack Kaner
US Personal Banking
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Jack’s Answer
While I loved my time in undergrad, I wasn't a huge fan of those "distribution" courses that are a requirement for the college but unrelated to my major. For example, my major was economics and my minor was in Chinese, yet I was required to fulfill a bunch of credits in natural sciences. Of course, however, I understand the importance of a well-rounded education.
So, during my senior year of college, I wanted to further my education, but in a specific field where that was my sole focus. That was a big motivator for me, where that field I was applying to in graduate school would be my sole focus and I could put 100% of my attention into that.
1. Specialization: Gaining a specific degree allows you to delve deeper into your chosen field and develop expertise in a specific area. You can focus on advanced coursework and research that aligns with your interests and career goals. This specialized knowledge can make you highly valuable and competitive in the job market.
2. Networking Opportunities: Gaining a degree offers an excellent environment for networking with fellow students, professors, and professionals in your field. You can build valuable connections that can lead to collaborations, mentorship, and job opportunities. Networking in graduate school especially can help you establish relationships that may be beneficial throughout your career.
3. Career Advancement and Salary Potential: In many professions, a graduate degree is becoming increasingly important for career advancement. Some careers, such as academia, research, or specialized technical roles, may require a graduate degree as a minimum qualification. Additionally, individuals with advanced degrees often have higher earning potential compared to those with just an undergraduate degree.
4. Personal Development: Graduate school can be a transformative experience that promotes personal growth and intellectual maturity. It challenges you to think critically, solve complex problems, and develop a deeper understanding of your field. It also fosters skills such as time management, self-discipline, and resilience, which are valuable in various aspects of life.
These were the 4 factors that made me realize obtaining another degree would be invaluable to my academic growth, professional network, and career opportunities.
So, during my senior year of college, I wanted to further my education, but in a specific field where that was my sole focus. That was a big motivator for me, where that field I was applying to in graduate school would be my sole focus and I could put 100% of my attention into that.
1. Specialization: Gaining a specific degree allows you to delve deeper into your chosen field and develop expertise in a specific area. You can focus on advanced coursework and research that aligns with your interests and career goals. This specialized knowledge can make you highly valuable and competitive in the job market.
2. Networking Opportunities: Gaining a degree offers an excellent environment for networking with fellow students, professors, and professionals in your field. You can build valuable connections that can lead to collaborations, mentorship, and job opportunities. Networking in graduate school especially can help you establish relationships that may be beneficial throughout your career.
3. Career Advancement and Salary Potential: In many professions, a graduate degree is becoming increasingly important for career advancement. Some careers, such as academia, research, or specialized technical roles, may require a graduate degree as a minimum qualification. Additionally, individuals with advanced degrees often have higher earning potential compared to those with just an undergraduate degree.
4. Personal Development: Graduate school can be a transformative experience that promotes personal growth and intellectual maturity. It challenges you to think critically, solve complex problems, and develop a deeper understanding of your field. It also fosters skills such as time management, self-discipline, and resilience, which are valuable in various aspects of life.
These were the 4 factors that made me realize obtaining another degree would be invaluable to my academic growth, professional network, and career opportunities.
Amy Greenholz
Human Resources Advisor
6
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Amy’s Answer
I worked in a factory and on an assembly line during summers and in while on school breaks. I learned to appreciate the fact while not a guarantee, a college education will open more possibilities. I kept that experience in mind when I felt stressed in college and knew that if I stuck with it and earned the degree, no one can ever take that away from me.
Jessica Medina
Human Resources
2
Answers
Mexico City, Mexico
Updated
Jessica’s Answer
My aim was to strive for improved job and career prospects. Over the four years, I concentrated on obtaining and immersing myself in experiences beyond just assignments and classes. I made the most of teamwork, networking, enhancing my critical thinking, and fully utilizing the knowledge of my intelligent and seasoned professors, as well as participating in school events.
I suggest connecting with graduates from your major or college to learn about their career journeys, their favorite and least favorite aspects of their college experience, and their pursuit of that major. This may help you find things that inspire or interest you.
Additionally, take a moment to assess yourself and pinpoint the most challenging, dull, or demotivating aspects of your college experience. By doing so, you can develop strategies to overcome these obstacles. You might find that these issues are unrelated to college or your chosen major, or perhaps they are. Regardless, recognizing these distractions will help you address them and fully enjoy your college experience.
I suggest connecting with graduates from your major or college to learn about their career journeys, their favorite and least favorite aspects of their college experience, and their pursuit of that major. This may help you find things that inspire or interest you.
Additionally, take a moment to assess yourself and pinpoint the most challenging, dull, or demotivating aspects of your college experience. By doing so, you can develop strategies to overcome these obstacles. You might find that these issues are unrelated to college or your chosen major, or perhaps they are. Regardless, recognizing these distractions will help you address them and fully enjoy your college experience.
Anthony La Fia
Finance Project Manager
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Anthony’s Answer
I do believe that a college degree is your ticket to middle class and beyond. That's not to say you need a college degree to be successful, but going to college opens you to fields of study and opportunities that might not exist if you didn't go. It's easy to second guess and question whether the steps you're taking are the right ones, but stay focused and finish what you started. As hard as it can be, it will pay dividends in the future and you will be very proud of yourself to receive that degree and know you accomplished it! I was a first generation college grad in my family and I had no guidance on what to do, where to go, etc, I was just told I should to go college so I can work with my mind, not with my hands and back, etc (my grandfather was a bricklayer). It was little advice at the time, but I did take it and thankfully it turned out good for me so best of luck to you!!!
Matt Krukowski
Equity Administrator
8
Answers
Newtown, Pennsylvania
Updated
Matt’s Answer
Being able to complete your college degree is an investment in your future self. You have to be able to put some of the things you want in life on pause and instead devote your time to accomplishing this goal. Make the most of your time while you are in college because most of us wish we were still in those years with so much still ahead of us. You can write your story.
Lisa Papageorgiou
Product marketing
2
Answers
Garnet Valley, Pennsylvania
Updated
Lisa’s Answer
I wanted to have a better life. I came from a depressed small town with limited opportunities. I knew that if I wanted to get out, I needed a degree to be able to get a good job so I could make the leap.
Ultimately, the ability to make a good living has enabled me to take care of my family and have a good decent life. It has allowed me to be in control.
Ultimately, the ability to make a good living has enabled me to take care of my family and have a good decent life. It has allowed me to be in control.
Sachin Sharma
Product Marketing
4
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Sachin’s Answer
I found getting a degree was more than checking off a goal, which don’t get wrong, was a big motivation in itself. But for me, the journey is actually what made it rewarding. There are many parts to making the journey enjoyable, but for me the 3 that were core:
1) Learning. It’s not just about studying to pass a test, but more so the thought process you get to learn to solve for questions on that test, that will help you attack real world professional (and maybe even personal) problems or challenges. Learning how to think and using problem-solving strategies will help you in the long-term, not just in the short-term view of getting a degree.
2) Networking. Whether you know it or not, when you’re going through the motions of getting a degree, you’re also likely going to be in the presence of like-minded people that can help you and you can help them. Building life-long relationships can be motivating, whether it’s with friends, mentors, mentees, teachers, and so on. These are the folks that can also help push you to get a degree. Some of the recommendations others have given here are great and I echo them - find mentors, joint clubs to meet people, and reward yourself often!
3) Opportunity. What pushed me to get a degree was knowing that I’d have a lot more opportunity once I had achieved my goal of graduating college. The degree shows you worked hard towards a goal. The door for more job opportunities completely opens up once you get a degree. This was highly motivating for me.
Good luck to you!
1) Learning. It’s not just about studying to pass a test, but more so the thought process you get to learn to solve for questions on that test, that will help you attack real world professional (and maybe even personal) problems or challenges. Learning how to think and using problem-solving strategies will help you in the long-term, not just in the short-term view of getting a degree.
2) Networking. Whether you know it or not, when you’re going through the motions of getting a degree, you’re also likely going to be in the presence of like-minded people that can help you and you can help them. Building life-long relationships can be motivating, whether it’s with friends, mentors, mentees, teachers, and so on. These are the folks that can also help push you to get a degree. Some of the recommendations others have given here are great and I echo them - find mentors, joint clubs to meet people, and reward yourself often!
3) Opportunity. What pushed me to get a degree was knowing that I’d have a lot more opportunity once I had achieved my goal of graduating college. The degree shows you worked hard towards a goal. The door for more job opportunities completely opens up once you get a degree. This was highly motivating for me.
Good luck to you!
Shaun Boothe
Supervisor, Inventory Events
3
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Shaun’s Answer
Hello Kenzie!
I totally understand how and why you feel this way. As someone who recently graduated and was so DONE with school I know that the brain starts questioning things.
I was pushed to get a degree in Management because I knew that if I wanted to achieve great things that education would be a key factor. Being a good worker is experience over formal education, but many high up positions require varying types of degrees to be eligible. I've met many managers at my workplace that I aspire to gain their role someday who do not have a college degree. Being a hard-worker is a much better test of a candidate's quality for a job. With that said, many organizations see value in degrees for higher-up, corporate positions. Since that's something that really does interest me, that's what pushed me to get a degree.
The most joy I found in college was the sports and activities I loved to do. Being part of those student organizations that meant a lot to me and had great groups of people made it all bearable. I understand you're struggling and nearing the end of your educational-journey, but keep on keeping on. Even while I didn't enjoy the classes, they sure did go fast. Enjoy the times you're in where you can focus on schoolwork and not routine work-life balance constantly.
I know you'll overcome. Just believe in yourself and find yourself a positive outlet to enjoy the things around you in college. Best of luck in life!
I totally understand how and why you feel this way. As someone who recently graduated and was so DONE with school I know that the brain starts questioning things.
I was pushed to get a degree in Management because I knew that if I wanted to achieve great things that education would be a key factor. Being a good worker is experience over formal education, but many high up positions require varying types of degrees to be eligible. I've met many managers at my workplace that I aspire to gain their role someday who do not have a college degree. Being a hard-worker is a much better test of a candidate's quality for a job. With that said, many organizations see value in degrees for higher-up, corporate positions. Since that's something that really does interest me, that's what pushed me to get a degree.
The most joy I found in college was the sports and activities I loved to do. Being part of those student organizations that meant a lot to me and had great groups of people made it all bearable. I understand you're struggling and nearing the end of your educational-journey, but keep on keeping on. Even while I didn't enjoy the classes, they sure did go fast. Enjoy the times you're in where you can focus on schoolwork and not routine work-life balance constantly.
I know you'll overcome. Just believe in yourself and find yourself a positive outlet to enjoy the things around you in college. Best of luck in life!
Joram Malley
2
Answers
Updated
Joram’s Answer
Hello,
I understand that it can be difficult to find joy in college, especially when you're struggling to find motivation. Here are a few things that helped me push through and get my degree:
1. I had a goal in mind:
I knew that I wanted to get a degree in order to have a better career. This gave me something to work towards and helped me stay motivated.
2. I found a mentor:
I found a professor who was passionate about my field of study and who was willing to help me succeed. This person gave me guidance and support, and they helped me stay on track.
3. I got involved in extracurricular activities:
I joined a few clubs and organizations that were related to my field of study. This helped me meet new people, learn new things, and gain valuable experience.
3. I took breaks:
It's important to take breaks from studying and working on projects. This will help you stay focused and avoid burnout.
4. I rewarded myself:
When I completed a task or reached a goal, I would give myself a small reward. This helped me stay motivated and made the process more enjoyable.
I hope these tips help you find joy in college and push through to get your degree. Remember, you're not alone in this. There are many people who have been through what you're going through, and they've made it through. You can too.
Here are some additional tips that might help you stay motivated in college:
1. Find a study buddy or group:
Studying with others can help you stay motivated and on track. You can quiz each other, help each other understand difficult concepts, and share ideas.
2. Join a club or organization:
Getting involved on campus can help you meet new people, make friends, and learn new things. It can also help you find a sense of community and belonging.
3. Take advantage of campus resources:
There are many resources available to students on campus, such as tutoring, counseling, and career services. These resources can help you succeed in college and beyond.
4. Don't be afraid to ask for help:
If you're struggling with a class, assignment, or personal issue, don't be afraid to ask for help from a professor, tutor, counselor, or friend. There are people who want to help you succeed.
I hope these tips help you stay motivated in college and reach your goals.
I understand that it can be difficult to find joy in college, especially when you're struggling to find motivation. Here are a few things that helped me push through and get my degree:
1. I had a goal in mind:
I knew that I wanted to get a degree in order to have a better career. This gave me something to work towards and helped me stay motivated.
2. I found a mentor:
I found a professor who was passionate about my field of study and who was willing to help me succeed. This person gave me guidance and support, and they helped me stay on track.
3. I got involved in extracurricular activities:
I joined a few clubs and organizations that were related to my field of study. This helped me meet new people, learn new things, and gain valuable experience.
3. I took breaks:
It's important to take breaks from studying and working on projects. This will help you stay focused and avoid burnout.
4. I rewarded myself:
When I completed a task or reached a goal, I would give myself a small reward. This helped me stay motivated and made the process more enjoyable.
I hope these tips help you find joy in college and push through to get your degree. Remember, you're not alone in this. There are many people who have been through what you're going through, and they've made it through. You can too.
Here are some additional tips that might help you stay motivated in college:
1. Find a study buddy or group:
Studying with others can help you stay motivated and on track. You can quiz each other, help each other understand difficult concepts, and share ideas.
2. Join a club or organization:
Getting involved on campus can help you meet new people, make friends, and learn new things. It can also help you find a sense of community and belonging.
3. Take advantage of campus resources:
There are many resources available to students on campus, such as tutoring, counseling, and career services. These resources can help you succeed in college and beyond.
4. Don't be afraid to ask for help:
If you're struggling with a class, assignment, or personal issue, don't be afraid to ask for help from a professor, tutor, counselor, or friend. There are people who want to help you succeed.
I hope these tips help you stay motivated in college and reach your goals.
JOHN German
85
Answers
Bluffton, South Carolina
Updated
JOHN’s Answer
Hello:
- Maybe you require a little extra time for fun - outside of the college curriculum and activities. Burnout can slither within the steps without one realizing that has rose.
- Same old, same old: the routine can get a little dry, so maybe add a little something into the days, even within the educational moments, that can shake up the humdrum moments so to say. Like vacuuming can be a dull chore for some, but if you add a little dance and/or music to the mixture, that can become a little bonus part that awakens something less unwanted.
- Remember the goals you set to achieve finding that motivation again, that encouragement to pave through the rough patches, and realize the end goal that can blossom your horizon's once you attain that accomplishment.
- Meditate, relaxation, and some time to just unwind to breathe a little in case the schedule has become chaotic in the timeframes to finish what warrants for the educational requirements. Kind of intertwines with #1 and #2.
- Dig deep, know you can finish, and take each day one day at a time. Little ticks off the box to get to the end zone so to say. When one looks further beyond the current, those seconds that need to become yet can mentally shackle the love as to why you wanted to begin. 5 months seems daunting compared to one day. Each day you set to accomplish just that day. As every day passes, 5 months go by, and you've finished what you desired.
Grateful for your roads.
God Bless,
John German
- Maybe you require a little extra time for fun - outside of the college curriculum and activities. Burnout can slither within the steps without one realizing that has rose.
- Same old, same old: the routine can get a little dry, so maybe add a little something into the days, even within the educational moments, that can shake up the humdrum moments so to say. Like vacuuming can be a dull chore for some, but if you add a little dance and/or music to the mixture, that can become a little bonus part that awakens something less unwanted.
- Remember the goals you set to achieve finding that motivation again, that encouragement to pave through the rough patches, and realize the end goal that can blossom your horizon's once you attain that accomplishment.
- Meditate, relaxation, and some time to just unwind to breathe a little in case the schedule has become chaotic in the timeframes to finish what warrants for the educational requirements. Kind of intertwines with #1 and #2.
- Dig deep, know you can finish, and take each day one day at a time. Little ticks off the box to get to the end zone so to say. When one looks further beyond the current, those seconds that need to become yet can mentally shackle the love as to why you wanted to begin. 5 months seems daunting compared to one day. Each day you set to accomplish just that day. As every day passes, 5 months go by, and you've finished what you desired.
Grateful for your roads.
God Bless,
John German
Shahneela Vengus
HR Manager
30
Answers
Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
Updated
Shahneela’s Answer
Build high self-esteem Believe in yourself, have confidence, like and feel good about yourself, take pride in what you do.
Focus with a positive attitude Always expect the best possible outcome for what you do.
Set powerful goals Give your brain a place to aim.
Persevere Never quit.
Learn from the journey and have fun along the way. Moreover, be honest with yourself. Take away distractions. Last but not the least, depend on yourself.
Focus with a positive attitude Always expect the best possible outcome for what you do.
Set powerful goals Give your brain a place to aim.
Persevere Never quit.
Learn from the journey and have fun along the way. Moreover, be honest with yourself. Take away distractions. Last but not the least, depend on yourself.
Cori Coburn-Shiflett
Manager of Educational Technology Support Services / STEM educator
29
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Cori’s Answer
Some folks might find this funny but I'm super serious....
The thing that kept me going (and still keeps me going) is my time working in fast food, retail and customer service.
If you have never had one of these jobs, just go to a busy store (especially during the holidays), and observe the people working there. These folks work so very hard, and often go under appreciated (sometimes even abused by rude customers). Not to say that such workers do not have more options, but many do not have opportunities beyond fast food, customer service and retail because of no higher education or other vocational training. It's hard work on the body and cana take a huge emotional toll on you.
I did this kind of work as a youth and as I worked on my first degree. It made me SO MUCH MORE appreciative for the opportunities I had in learning/ doing more. With my education, I now get to work smarter and not physically harder.
The thing that kept me going (and still keeps me going) is my time working in fast food, retail and customer service.
If you have never had one of these jobs, just go to a busy store (especially during the holidays), and observe the people working there. These folks work so very hard, and often go under appreciated (sometimes even abused by rude customers). Not to say that such workers do not have more options, but many do not have opportunities beyond fast food, customer service and retail because of no higher education or other vocational training. It's hard work on the body and cana take a huge emotional toll on you.
I did this kind of work as a youth and as I worked on my first degree. It made me SO MUCH MORE appreciative for the opportunities I had in learning/ doing more. With my education, I now get to work smarter and not physically harder.
Joshua Smith
Risk Management
2
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Joshua’s Answer
Hello Kenzie,
Here are some reasons why pursuing higher education can be beneficial and inspiring:
- If your dream job requires a college degree, earning one can be a crucial step towards opening those doors for you.
- Achieving good grades and earning a degree can be a source of pride and fulfillment, as it's not always an easy feat.
- You might discover new social clubs or events that excite you, allowing you to connect with others who share your interests.
- Having a stable career can support you in accomplishing other life goals (e.g. exploring hobbies that need financial backing, starting a family, or pursuing entrepreneurial ventures).
Ultimately, it's essential to reflect on what truly brings you joy. If your current degree path doesn't ignite your passion, it might be time to consider alternative options.
I hope this advice proves helpful.
Best regards,
Josh
Here are some reasons why pursuing higher education can be beneficial and inspiring:
- If your dream job requires a college degree, earning one can be a crucial step towards opening those doors for you.
- Achieving good grades and earning a degree can be a source of pride and fulfillment, as it's not always an easy feat.
- You might discover new social clubs or events that excite you, allowing you to connect with others who share your interests.
- Having a stable career can support you in accomplishing other life goals (e.g. exploring hobbies that need financial backing, starting a family, or pursuing entrepreneurial ventures).
Ultimately, it's essential to reflect on what truly brings you joy. If your current degree path doesn't ignite your passion, it might be time to consider alternative options.
I hope this advice proves helpful.
Best regards,
Josh