Are you finishing matric and feeling uncertain about what to study next year? It’s a common challenge for many students. To help you make an informed decision, we reached out to South African career advisors for their insights on navigating this transitional phase.
One option to consider is an academic bridging year. Taking this year allows you to explore various fields of interest while developing new skills and insights. “Think of your first year out of school as a vital building block toward establishing your career path,” says Prof. Zak Nel, a Johannesburg-based career advisor with nearly 40 years of experience in guiding students.
Bridging the Gap: The Value of a Transition Year
The shift from high school to tertiary education can be a daunting one, with many students struggling to keep up with the demands of university life. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to enter higher education and build your career. Many universities now offer bridging programmes tailored to help students whose matric marks in subjects like Maths and Science didn’t meet the entry requirements for certain courses. These programmes, along with extended degree options at both public and private institutions, give students a chance to work toward diplomas and degrees in various fields.
If you’re still unsure about which path to pursue or didn’t achieve the matric results you hoped for, enrolling in an accredited higher certificate or diploma course can be a valuable first step toward higher education.
Exploring Your Interests: Tailored Study Options
Prof. Nel highlights the importance of purposeful and well-structured bridging options. “A solid bridging programme can give students a clear sense of their interests and strengths while earning them a recognised qualification,” he explains. Some students might choose to spend a year taking short courses within a specific area, while others may prefer a more comprehensive bridging programme. There are also excellent online options for flexible learning.
Shirley Brooks, a career guidance counselor based in Cape Town, advises students to think carefully about their general interests and the requirements of potential courses. “Some students excel in a long academic path, while others thrive in shorter, focused programmes,” Brooks says. “It’s crucial to find a study path that aligns with your unique strengths and goals.”
Reassessing Your Goals: A Starting Point, Not the Finish Line
If your initial choice of study feels out of reach due to subject limitations or entry requirements, don’t be discouraged. According to Prof. Nel, this doesn’t have to be the end of your career journey. “For instance, if becoming a chartered accountant isn’t possible right away, there are many other options in business studies that can open doors.”
A higher certificate programme can be an excellent option for those who need more time to decide on a long-term commitment to university or want to improve their matric results to reapply for specific courses. With a higher certificate, you’ll be well-positioned to either continue your studies or enter the job market, gaining experience in your chosen field.
An example is the Academy for Environmental Leadership (AEL), which offers an accredited higher certificate in conservation ecology. Beyond a traditional gap year, this programme enables students to enter fields like conservation and ecology with both knowledge and practical experience.
Finding Your Path: Key Factors to Consider
Both Brooks and Nel emphasise that there isn’t just one way to reach your career goals. “Think about your matric results, academic potential, interests, and personality realistically,” says Brooks. If you’re still uncertain, seeking guidance from a career counselor can provide clarity.
Prof. Nel advises students to stay flexible and ready to recalibrate their options as needed. “Approach this transition with an open mind. Remember, this is only the beginning, and there are many ways to build a rewarding career.”