Sometimes what we like and what we are good at do not necessarily go hand in hand. From a young age, we may have things we enjoy or are interested in. We might look at others and imagine what we want to become in the future, or we may simply focus on what seems financially rewarding and assume, “This must be what I like and I should be good at it.” Having passion is definitely a good thing. One Education believes that if you are passionate about something, you are more likely to do well in it. However, this does not always apply, especially when it comes to choosing what to study.

As you approach the end of secondary school or your undergraduate degree, you are required to choose a specific path for further study. This decision often feels rushed, you need to apply, prepare for exams, and worry about deadlines. For those who have not planned ahead, the pressure can feel overwhelming. Many students simply ask themselves what they like, and once they think they enjoy something, they choose to study it. But in reality, this may not be the right decision, and they may end up spending 3–4 years studying something they are not good at. This can lead to poor academic performance and unnecessary stress. Here are some ways to better understand yourself beyond just your interests, so you can make a more informed decision when choosing a course.

1. Consider whether what you like aligns with what you are good at

For example, you may enjoy design, drawing, fashion, or styling, and assume that studying Design would suit you. However, when it comes to applying, universities often require a portfolio. Some students struggle to create one or even rely on others for help. Once they begin the course, they may feel pressured because they lack creative skills, struggle with design concepts, or have no experience in practical skills such as sewing or production. In reality, they may only enjoy fashion superficially, but studying design involves much more than that. This can lead to significant challenges during the course.

2. Ask yourself what you are naturally good at and what skills you can build on

For instance, if you enjoy reading, have a good memory, and can summarise information effectively, you may not be suited to Design, even if you like fashion. Instead, you might consider programmes that focus on reading and analytical thinking, such as Law. Studying Law requires a strong interest in reading and the ability to analyse information. If you are not comfortable with these skills, the course may become very challenging and impact your academic performance.

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3. Choosing a course based only on expected salary

In the past, many people believed that studying Accounting would lead to a high income, as accountants could earn well from auditing work. This belief has influenced many students to choose Accounting without considering their actual strengths. Before deciding, ask yourself: Are you good with numbers? Can you work with calculations for long periods? If not, this may not be the right choice. Similarly, many students today are interested in Finance or FinTech because they hear that investing can generate quick wealth. However, without a strong foundation in mathematics, these courses can become stressful and difficult to manage.

4. Review course modules carefully before making a decision

Take the time to look into the curriculum of the programme you are interested in. Review the modules, understand what will be taught, and consider whether you can handle the level of depth required. Also think about career outcomes, what kind of job will this lead to? Does it align with your interests? Additionally, check whether the university offers career support services after graduation. Having access to guidance can make a significant difference in your transition into the workforce.

5. Making decisions without consulting experts

Many students feel confident in their choices, which is great. However, seeking advice from experienced professionals can provide valuable insights and additional information that you may not have considered. One Education has over 30 years of experience in supporting students who wish to study in Australia and the UK. As an official representative of universities, the team can provide accurate information, assist with applications, and even help you connect directly with universities if needed. There are also regular seminars covering study preparation, course insights, and university options. Attending these can help you make a more informed decision and avoid choosing the wrong course. Most importantly, all services provided by One Education are completely free of charge.

Interested in Studying in Australia or the UK?

For more information and assistance with the application process, you can contact One Education, an official representative of Australian and UK Universities. We offer free consultation and support throughout your application journey.   
Add our Line official account: @one-edu   
Submit an enquiry form. We will get back to you as soon as possible.    
Call us: 02-652-0718     

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