Is Univeristy worth it?

Is going to University Worth it?

I’m incredibly fortunate to be one of the few people who had the chance to go into further education, studying BA Commercial Photography at Arts University Plymouth. But… was it worth it?

Whenever anyone mentions the word “university,” a lot of people immediately think of one thing: money — specifically debt, and lots of it. And yes, university is expensive. It’s a privilege to be able to go, and it’s a world away from high school or college.

University turned out to be a lot harder than I expected. I have learning difficulties, so I always knew it might be more of a challenge for me than for others. But you find ways to adapt. In many ways, university prepared me for the real working world more than anything else — mainly teaching me to never give up and to find creative solutions around obstacles.

I started university in 2022 and moved into student halls. It was my first time ever living on my own — and with complete strangers too. That first year toughened me up in ways I didn’t expect. I know a lot of people who dropped out within the first few weeks because university life just wasn’t for them — and that’s okay too. Your mental health always comes first.

Now, as I enter my final month at university, I can honestly say that, for me, it was worth it. I’ve learned so much — not just about photography, but about myself. Looking back, I know I wasn’t ready to jump straight into a full-time job at 18. University gave me a different path, a few more years to grow and figure out who I wanted to be. And now, I can truly say: I’m ready more than ever.

Would I go back and do university again ?

If I could go back and do university again, I don't think I would. Its not that I didn't enjoy it, it's because I realise that whilst university has helped me in so many ways — and at the end of it I’ll have a degree, which a lot of workplaces do value — I also believe that apprenticeships are just as important.

The only reason I didn’t do an apprenticeship is because it was difficult to find an one within photography. But if you can, I genuinely think you get even more hands-on experience, and often, you’re more likely to get a job offer from the company you trained with.

However, if you want the full university experience — meeting new people, creating unforgettable memories, and developing personal and professional skills you might not get from jumping straight into work — I would definitely recommend university, especially if you don’t feel quite ready yet.

At the end of the day, it’s all open to interpretation. This is just my personal experience, and what I believe from my journey.