Sunday, September 11, 2011

BA, Bcomm, BSE, ABC? My educaiton of a degree

So, I've been meaning to blog more but obviously still never do. I was trying to figure out which of my 30 outlined posts to actually finish writing; this one just seemed so fitting.

With September here, and a new cheap "school laptop", it's definitely feeling like 'Back to School'. A feeling I absolutely hate. I hate it because it reminds me of how old I am and the fact that I do not have my undergrad.

Here's a quick summary from High School graduation to current day: Graduated, started school with an  aggressive goal, life slapped me in the face, changed my game plan a little, started working full time, and  now still pursuing my degree.

My degree is BA in Political Science with a minor in commerce. Most people are absolutely shocked to find out that I'm a poli sci major - I guess I don't fit the stereotype. Often I look back and question why I never went for a Bcomm. I was just so passionate about politics and law. Now, I've come to realise that it was through my love of the politics and law that I discovered I love the corporate world.

Working in the corporate world, I've come to realise that you can move forward in a career without a degree. I've also come to realise that this is not an option for me, I need my degree. Yes, I want it so I can add the initials to my signature but also so I can take the next big step forward. Not having a degree is not an option, and if it's for any one purpose it's to say that I have the discipline to go through classes, acquire knowledge and write some great papers and exams. Demonstrating I can do all these seems to be the key to opening more doors.

So with this in mind, I'm still enrolled as a "full time" student.. 3 classes. I have so much respect for individuals who work full time and go to school. It is so challenging. I've come to realise how lifeless my life will be for the next 10 months when I'm consumed with work work work and school work. Working 40+ hours a week plus 3 classes? Ouch. Not fun at all. However, I know it'll be worth it. Gotta keep the end in mind.

So why complete the degree if I already have a job? One, because it's an un-achieved goal currently. Two, my job is just a job.. I have much more to accomplish career wise. Three, I've been told there's a pay increase - thank god! Four, flexibility - I feel stagnant and stuck in Calgary until I have my undergrad.

So, what`s next? I plan big. My goal is to get my undergrad asap, using whatever means possible. My next steps right away after my undergrad will include getting my PMP and then followed by an MBA. But that's not all. Getting my degree means moving on out of Calgary!

What are your thoughts? School or no school? What'd you do?