GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 367
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people believe that studying at university or college is the best route to a successful career, while others believe that it is better to get a job straight after school.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
You should give reasons for your answer using your own ideas and experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1:
Many people believe that obtaining a university degree is the key to unlocking the golden door of an illustrious career, yet others believe landing a job immediately after finishing school is a better deal. I agree with the first viewpoint and will show that despite there being successful college dropouts, a university degree is a step on the success ladder.
Many often argue that going straight to work after school is a far better choice because it impacts how successful individuals are in their careers. This is because they do not have to devote many years to higher study. In simple words, instead of spending several years in college or university, they can invest their time to broaden first-hand experience and competence in some particular domains, which in turn can lead them to a distinguished career. Tiger Woods, for instance, left college early and carved out a niche in golf sport. Similarly, Bill Gates, Goerge Clooney and Mark Zuckerberg are examples of university dropouts who have enviable career success.
However, obtaining a bachelor’s or master’s degree contributes towards individuals’ phenomenal success in the professional domain according to many. They say that it teaches them how to extract knowledge from the existing body of knowledge and how to generate new knowledge. This equips them with far more critical thinking ability and analytical reasoning competencies than their counterparts. In consequence, people with tertiary education can cope with the changing working environment and thus can solve any issue. A case in point is a recent study, which investigated how many of the richest and most influential persons graduated from university. It reveals that 76% of these remarkably successful persons have a university degree. For this reason, I believe universities are the Launchpad for achieving career success. Moreover, Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg as successful people despite being university dropouts are not examples, they are exceptions.
To conclude, although it is true there are a few successful individuals without a university degree, I argue that having a tertiary education is the path to success in a successful career because higher education equips students with skills so that they can adapt to change and contribute more effectively.
Model Answer 2:
It is a widely debated topic whether pursuing higher education at university or college is the optimal path to a successful career, or if getting a job straight after school is a better choice. This essay aims to explore both perspectives. From my viewpoint, I believe that entering the workforce immediately after completing school can lead to a more successful career trajectory.
Proponents of the first viewpoint argue that obtaining a university or college degree equips individuals with specialised knowledge and skills that are highly valued in the job market. They contend that higher education provides a strong foundation and opens doors to a wider range of career opportunities. For example, professions such as medicine, engineering, and law often require advanced degrees for entry, and the expertise gained through academic study can enhance employability.
On the other hand, supporters of the second perspective assert that gaining practical work experience early on allows individuals to develop real-world skills and industry-specific knowledge. By immersing themselves in a professional setting, young adults can acquire valuable insights, build networks, and discover their true passions. Furthermore, they argue that many successful entrepreneurs and innovators did not follow the traditional educational path, emphasising the importance of hands-on experience and self-driven learning.
In my opinion, pursuing a career straight after school can lead to a more successful and fulfilling professional journey. While higher education certainly offers valuable knowledge, it does not guarantee immediate career success. The rapidly evolving job market values practical skills, adaptability, and entrepreneurship, which can be cultivated through early work experiences.
In conclusion, while obtaining a university or college education provides certain advantages, I believe that entering the workforce immediately after school can lead to a more successful and rewarding career. Real-world experience, industry connections, and early skill development are vital components in today’s dynamic job market.