Is University Right For Me?

In this step we will look at a case study of ‘Jay’, a person considering whether university is for them. Jay is a fictional person, but this case study is drawn from the real experiences of students.

Case study: What to Study at University

What would Jay do?

Jay is just coming to the end of Year 12. He has really enjoyed his A-level studies so far in Politics, Maths and Economics and is now considering what to study at university. He loves Politics and is also interested in Sociology and has thought that he would really enjoy a course which involves these subjects.

When trying to make a decision about his degree choice, Jay took a career quiz; this strongly suggested accountancy or some other numerical career. Jay is not sure about this: while it’s possible that he might be interested in accountancy once university is finished, he really would prefer to get into more depth with political study.

He is being advised by his parents to should choose a ‘safe’ option which would ‘guarantee them a job’. Jay’s parents also strongly imply that Maths or Accountancy are ‘better’ degrees and are repeatedly asking Jay, ‘But what can you do with a Politics degree?’

Jay would like to have the whole university experience – joining clubs and societies, perhaps doing a placement year, as well as the chance to take his interest in politics further – but he is also worried about his future prospects.

What is influencing Jay?

• What influences do they think are at play in Jay’s case study? Can you see any links to the theories presented so far?