"Choosing a tertiary education institution is a decision that is not taken lightly, and with justification," said Hill. "A large majority of students are opting to study at places that give them practical skills and knowledge that they will require in the workplace. The end-point reason of any tertiary education is to be employable at the end of your studies."
Many school leavers enter into degrees and courses without having gone through a period of introspection and assessment. There are those who do not know what career they want to follow and often fall into a path that may not suit them.
"At Rosebank College we have a programme called 'Work My Future', which is a comprehensive assessment and assistance service that finds out students likes and aptitudes, suggests possible careers and then the course or courses necessary to ensure they reach that goal. We also offer students mock job interviews, which helps them with job searches and getting their CVs out in the marketplace," she said.
Hill suggested that school leavers do research such as how the institution is positioned in terms of respect, reputation and results - many students will apply at a college or university based on word of mouth recommendation from their peers, mentors and parents. It is important to know what organisation the institution is accredited to. Some companies will look twice and a little more favourably at a CV that includes the name of a certain institution.
The size of the classes is also important as smaller classes mean a more personalised and extensive education. Receiving continuous feedback from lecturers will make the course more pleasurable and rewarding. Tablets, notebooks and smartphones are all becoming instruments of education and therefore an institution with up-to-date IT systems and software is one that is making education relevant to the ever-changing world.
