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Is it worth it to do a certificate program before going to college?

I am 19 years old and I was thinking about doing a certificate program on my field of interest (advertising, communication, filmmaking) as I still don't know exactly what major I would like to study.

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ISMAIL’s Answer

No it not worth going for a certificate
Thank you comment icon Hi Ismail, I know its been a while since you've left this answer but can you explain why? Gurpreet Lally, Admin
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Twamsen’s Answer

It isn't a necessity but I wouldn't refuse the opportunity to gain more knowledge especially if it is in the field I am interested in. Personally, like you I had no idea about filmmaking until I enrolled into a diploma course at the National Film Institute, Jos and during that time I tried my hands on a lot of positions within the filmmaking field until I found one that I loved the most. Later on when I returned to get my bachelor's degree, I knew what I wanted and this helped my to focus on what I wanted to learn.
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Kara’s Answer

I have a very specific point of view, but several others in my field strongly agree. Personally, a four year university was an expensive lifestyle that I was neither prepared for socially or financially, and did not end up benefitting from at all. My certificate program was less than a year of my life, $20k total, and has landed me jobs that a university degree would never have prepared me for, since college learning can focus on the academic and can sometimes fail to give you the practical skills needed for an actual job. My friend attended Harvard, graduated, attempted his first position, and found that he had no practical knowledge of how to take on the job itself, so attended a certificate program and felt much better prepared 6 months later.

TL;DR: If you have any doubts about committing half a decade of your life and 100k to a degree, a certificate program, trade school, apprenticeship, or other shorter term/less expensive option is a great choice. I'd much rather have decided against my career once I finished a 7 month program than when I was at the end of a 4 year program.
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Paul’s Answer

Sometimes doing a certificate program will work to your advantage, especially if it gives you general knowledge of the subject you wish to study.

This can help when you do eventually take courses in your major or specialty. It can also help when you put together a future resume or apply for a job within your career choice.
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David’s Answer

Yes! No knowledge is a waste.
The skill or program is acquire can benefit us one Day.
We can never predict the future, that skill or program you acquire can be your source of income some day.
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Michelle’s Answer

The interests that you have mentioned - Advertising, Communications and Filmmaking - are very exciting and creative fields of work and all satisfying careers begin with that spark of interest, which you have.

You are inquiring about doing a certification instead of going to college. The three professions that you have mentioned do require full time, long term study with being able to do projects, oral and written skills, and theory and technique exploration. I have not heard of any certificate programs in these fields as there is an abundance of knowledge and hands on work a person must be able to do and one never stops learning or updating their skills for these fields.

I'm not sure if you are asking about doing a certification course in something different than your interests, but if you are, I can make a couple of suggestions. You can do a certification in sales or get certified as someone who teaches English to foreign speaking students. Those are two types of certifications that I can think of that can be done short term, not expensive and can be done on line at your own pace. There are also certification course of studies for software. The issue is that people take certifications that are already in their chosen work. They obtain the certification to advance in their jobs.

There is no need to rush enrolling in college. Take the time you need to plan and make decisions. Be sure that whatever certificate you go for will be able to open the door to an entry level position. In the meantime, it would be a good idea to check out some books about filmmaking and advertising. Reading about these may spark some ideas or strengthen your interest and help your decision making process. Most of all, don't be discouraged, but be inquisitive and ask many people their opinions. Try to get to know some local or student filmmakers in your area. Move at your own pace and you won't go wrong.

Best wishes to you as you decide the steps to take !
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Robyn’s Answer

Definitely consider earning a certification prior to starting college. This process equips you with essential knowledge that will be beneficial for your future coursework. Moreover, it arms you with the skills necessary to secure an internship or an on-campus job, offering you invaluable experience before you graduate. Showcasing your ambition, eagerness to learn, and motivation through a certification can make you stand out in the competitive job market. So, don't hesitate - go for it!
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Jordan’s Answer

Success comes from experience. Going to college is important, However, you're more likely to get a job doing what you love through the experience. A lot of times, college will
give you a paper that says you did something, but not a job.
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Lexi’s Answer

Hi Enzo,

I think a certificate program would be a great idea for you to get a chance to explore your interests. Many students think college has to be the next step after high school, but it doesn't have to be! If you are unsure what you want to study, it is better to confirm your interest in a field before starting college and paying tuition. It is also not a bad thing to change your major while at university, but knowing beforehand will give you better direction than going in without a plan.

I would also recommend volunteering, interning , or finding an apprenticeship where you can get hands on experience. Some of these would be unpaid, but that might be a better value than a certificate program. Best of luck to you!
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Keyston’s Answer

Absolutely, getting a certificate in a field of interest like advertising, communication, or filmmaking can give you practical skills and insights. It might help you figure out if that's the right path for you before committing to a full college degree. Just remember, life takes unexpected turns, so keep an open mind and follow what resonates with you.
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