I had tried to think of a topic to write about that many could relate to and also that would be of interest to me. Here it goes: Education. Please do not be 'put off' by that one word. If you happen to cringe at this word and it somehow relates to the memories one may reminisce about, of their school days, then read-on and I will attempt to sway you to the more optimistic outlook of that one word - Education.
As a student in their second year of the great and all-powerful GCSEs, I have come to realise people change their opinion of school as time flies by. Usually, some begin to dislike or even 'hate' their experience of the so-called prison cell, called school. What I would aim to do, would be to send these students and perform an almost 'life-swap' with young children in lower developed countries and ask how they preferred it to their 'normal' - whatever that may mean, lifestyles. I am sure not many would come back to their original home, eager to leave again. So, a life lesson - always be more grateful for what you have and save your inner ignorance for another day.
Another thing I have began to deduct is the increasing rate of competition between students and graduates as they launch to their desired career paths. I decided to expose myself to the 'real' world by signing myself up for work experience in various fields of work. The things I learnt from my first placement, working in chambers, were that:
1) Clerks swear and curse way too often.
2) Wherever you go, you will have to compete for that primary position you want.
I know this because I gained a friend during that week. All seemed well, until the last day when she said "See you next time, when we are competing for the job!". I nodded and smiled. That is all it took for me to learn that even your 'friends' are capable of stabbing you in the back. Now, this girl was actually friendly and I'm sure she intended to make it sound like a joke, but I know that an inkling of her meant what she said. This is where education comes back into the picture. To be ranked in the 'Top 10' is great, but remember that only the person at the first position will come to achieve what these other 9 want to.
Of course, if you are not pursuing an academic career and are, for example, an up and running, new musician, looking to be signed to a record deal, then run with you chances and see where they will take you. That was what I gathered from my third work experience placement. At the end of the day, you shouldn't feel guilty for not wanting to become a barrister or a doctor, do what makes you happy! Just remember, if that does not turn out to be what you had expected, it is never too late to return back to what once seemed like hell.
To the term 'Education'. It doesn't always necessarily mean attending school and being the top of the class. What I have in mind is what they do not teach us at school - the experiences behind the metal gates. Until you have not stepped outside, then I am afraid you have not lived to your full potential. Knowledge IS power, but this knowledge can not just be obtained through books and lectures. Sometimes, it's the experiences that count. Hence why education is not just the process of learning in school, but also becoming more knowledgeable, outside of school, as well as inside.
