Becoming a …! Part 1
Over the course of the next few weeks, Profgrad will discuss
a different profession each week, in detail. Profgrad will determine how many
years of study you would need to do to become a professional in that field,
what kind of a degree you need, what is expected of you from community service and a general description of
your life as a future professional in that field. These are all important
aspects you would need to consider before studying in a certain direction.
Becoming a professional in a field takes hard work, commitment and many years
of your life. Therefore, making the right choice upfront is of the utmost
importance. Profgrad will explore many professions over the next few weeks.
How many years of
study?
This is an extremely important question to answer before you
dedicate the next few years of your life. It will determine how many years you
have to give of your life to become a professional. It is usually a minimum
requirement to study a certain amount of years. After your initial studies, you
could be required to do additional courses or even a continuous development
program to enhance your skills as a professional. These requirements change
from time to time. It might also be different when studying part time compared
to full time.
What is the degree
called?
There are many different types of degrees. At undergraduate level
you usually receive a Bachelor’s degree. For most professions you would usually
need to study towards a post graduate qualification. This is called Honours or Master’s
degree but sometimes a post graduate diploma would also be accepted. As the
profession changes for example, new breakthroughs or new ways of doing certain
tasks, you might be required to study further to ensure your competence in the
profession.
Do I need to do
Community Service?
Many Professions require future professionals to do
community service before being accepted in the industry. Community service is
important as you learn the fundamentals of your field. It is here that you will
learn valuable skills and gain insight/ knowledge of your future profession.
You will have more experienced individuals by your side to assist when you are
unsure and coach you in the ways of the specific profession. This is important
as this person can teach you what they have acquired through experience.
A general description
of your lifestyle as a professional
Before making the decision to embark on a journey towards
you dream occupation, you need to make sure of the lifestyle that will be
required. You need to be comfortable with the demands and everyday life of a certain
profession. Some occupations might require you to work night shifts or extended
working hours. This could put you outside of your comfort zone. If you feel at
this stage that you have made the wrong decision based on the fact that you do
not like the way of life in that profession, you have effectively studied all
those years and completed all your requirements for no reason.
Have you researched all of the above before embarking on
your journey?
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