“What should I pursue for my master’s degree?”
It’s one of the most overwhelming decisions for any student or young adult.
I’ve been there.
In 2017, I never imagined I’d be doing a degree in leadership studies in 2024.
Back then, I was knee-deep in biotechnology — convinced it was the “right path” because it looked good on paper.
Would I have still chosen that path if I knew where I’d end up?
Probably not.
But do I regret it?
Not for a second.
Because here’s the truth no one tells you:
Sometimes, the “wrong” choice leads you straight to your purpose.
Why Choosing a Master’s Program Feels So Heavy
When I chose my first Master’s degree, I had no mentor, no real guide — just pressure, confusion, and a bit of blind excitement.
Everyone was doing something. Everyone was “moving ahead.”
I didn’t want to be left behind.
But now, having completed two Master’s programs and moved abroad, here’s what I wish someone had told me: a clearer picture of self-leadership and career clarity.
1. A Degree Doesn’t Give Direction — Clarity Does
I used to think that the degree itself would “figure it out for me.”
That just enrolling would bring direction.
It didn’t.
In fact, it made me question myself even more.
Before choosing any degree, ask:
- What do I truly want from this?
- Is this helping me align with my long-term vision?
- Or am I doing this because it’s expected?
If you don’t have career clarity, pause.
It’s better to take time to reflect than to commit to something that doesn’t serve your future self.
2. No One Talks About What Happens After
Everyone is focused on admissions, offers, and university rankings.
But what happens after your degree is just as important as getting in.
I didn’t plan for:
- What job would follow
- What environment I’d thrive in
- What emotional transitions I’d go through
The post-degree loneliness, uncertainty, and identity shift hit hard.
Ask yourself now:
What does my life look like after I finish this course?
If you can’t answer that, it’s a sign to dig deeper.
3. Moving Abroad Is Not Just a Career Decision — It’s a Life Shift
When I moved to the UK for higher studies, I faced questions that no syllabus had prepared me for:
- Who am I outside of my degree?
- How do I build a life here from scratch?
- Will I be okay alone?
Sure, the academics were intense. But the personal growth, loneliness, and adaptability — that was the real challenge.
Your master’s is more than a course.
It’s a lifestyle transformation. Plan for that.
If nothing, challenges could lead you towards self-leadership.
4. Growth Isn’t About Climbing — It’s About Alignment
When I started my career, I checked all the boxes:
- Academic Manager
- Corporate training
- Student success metrics
It looked like growth — but something was missing.
I wasn’t aligned with my purpose.
I could teach content, but I couldn’t lead conversations about confidence, values, or emotional intelligence — the topics I truly cared about.
Because career clarity is followed by self-leadership and self awareness.
That’s when I shifted my path.
5. From “Fitting In” to “Growing Through”
I enrolled in an MBA in Leadership, not just for career advancement — but to realign myself with what mattered.
It was never about fitting in anymore.
It was about growing through the discomfort.
I started sharing content online, not for applause — but for clarity.
It helped me realize I wasn’t alone — and neither are you.
What I’d Tell Someone Choosing Their Master’s Degree Today
If you’re in your early 20s (or even 30s), trying to decide on a path, here’s what I’d share — not from a brochure, but from experience:
Ask better questions:
- Will this degree move me closer to the life I want?
- Am I choosing this for me, or to impress others?
- What kind of impact do I want to make after this?
Talk to someone who’s been there:
Find mentors. Connect with people who have pursued similar paths.
They’ll share the real talk, not just highlight reels.
Invest in self-awareness and self-leadership before certificates:
Your degree is just a tool.
But your clarity, confidence, and emotional intelligence — that’s your real career capital.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Choose a Degree. Choose Direction.
Growth is not about collecting degrees.
It’s about collecting insight.
Learning what doesn’t work so you can move toward what does.
And most importantly — giving yourself permission to course-correct when needed.
Sometimes, one “wrong” decision and one moment of reflection are all it takes to get on the right track.
So if you’re confused about your master’s — that’s okay.
But don’t walk alone.
Don’t rush.
Take a breath, ask the hard questions, and choose with clarity over fear.
You’re not just choosing a course.
You’re shaping a chapter of your life.
Make it count.