With more options than ever, it can be hard to make the ‘right’ choice. Taking some time out by deferring study can help make things clearer.
These days, it feels like we have more choices than ever. Even the once simple act of ordering a coffee has become riddled with options. Cold drip or espresso? Almond or soy? Skim or regular? Sugar or sweetener? Keep cup or paper cup? It can feel overwhelming having so many options presented to us (especially before we’ve even had our daily dose of caffeine). The same is true of study. There seems to be no end to the number of courses available, from astronomy to zoology and beyond. So how do you decide? What if you start something and realize it’s not for you? And what happens if, like a lot of us, you’re simply not sure what you want to do?
Luckily, there is a solution: deferral. Deferring study means you delay the commencement of your course for a set period of time, usually about six months to a year. This effectively allows you to buy yourself some time to figure out what you really want to do. You can use that time to work, travel, volunteer or maybe dip your toe into an industry that you’ve also been curious about. This will help you learn more about yourself, your passions and what drives you. You might even use the time to gain a diploma or a certificate, to get a taste of what study would be like and if it’s the right fit for you.
While we aren’t locked into career pathways the same way our parents once were (thank god), having such an abundance of choices available can create a different kind of anxiety. If you’re struggling to decide, deferral is a great option to buy yourself some time, try different things and get to know yourself a bit better. And the best part is, all the options will still be there at the end of your deferral, so you can feel confident in making the right choice for you.
Touch base with our team at National Training and we can help you make the right career decision. Not sure about university or online education? Let us answer some of your questions.
