Auchmuty Library, University of Newcastle. Photo credit: Wikipedia
I have often questioned myself as to why I am actually at uni – it was never planned, it just happened. After receiving high marks at TAFE from my Cert IV Business Marketing course, the University of Newcastle offered me a place at their uni, doing a course of my choice. Naturally, I chose Bachelor of Business with a Marketing Major. At first I was very excited to embark on this new education, but have since been very disappointed with the out of date education system, especially when it came to my Marketing Major.
So why do it?
Why pay, on average, $1000 per subject to do something that has not helped at all in my business career?
Don’t get me wrong – for students who haven’t a clue about marketing, it would be a decent course – it goes back to basics, but I feel it is a little too basic and does not encompass new technology like social media. Last semester a lecturer was talking about the use of the internet for marketing – the only thing he spoke about was websites and banner ads. When I mentioned social media, I was responded to with a blank look and then he changed the topic. The education system (at least the one at Newcastle Uni) is preparing students for traditional marketing only – and further to that, only teaches academic theories. I have not seen a real case-study yet.
So why do it?
To get the piece of paper at the end. Yes I am stubborn and a little egotistical, but I will finish what I have started. I know that I will probably never show a future employer my degree as I am determined to always own my own business, but at least I know that I committed myself to it and received something at the end
On a further note, my views are very similar to that of fellow student Zac Martin, check out his post on Education 2.0.
This post was not intended to offend anyone who is currently studying at uni (and enjoying it!), this is my view only, coming from someone who has worked in marketing for the past 5 years and who’s life is all about new technology.
8 Comments
December 2, 2008 at 10:42 am
That is so strange that you were taught that IM is just websites and banner ads. At a uni no less. Goize.
December 2, 2008 at 10:53 am
I was reading this and was about to comment and say I’d written about this very topic recently hehe.
I don’t think we are alone. I got in touch with the Head of Department and a couple of lecturers and it certainly made for some interesting conversation. Perhaps you could try that?
December 2, 2008 at 10:54 am
Trust me, this internet thing is a fad!
I agree with you that, the education system is not up to scratch but I think it is a reflection on the industry as well.
I think that what a degree can teach you, is the right way to tackle a problem. It also gives you the basics which is really good base to start from.
I think Zac, I and the rest of the Monash Caulfield Marketing Pop were all lucky enough to be taught by someone who was passionate about the changing landscape of Markekting in Peter Wagstaff, you should definitely check his blog out about changing teaching model.
http://renew-ed.blogspot.com/
December 2, 2008 at 12:32 pm
Hi There,
This is a big subject and one the industry is about to try and address. AIMIA is about to launch a program to unite faculty and students in digital media across NSW and then Australia to review courses and particularly their relevance to industry.
CBS Interactive has led the charge on this with http://www.newmediaminded.com.au/ to engage students in their space and to look at interning over summer. The idea is that real world paid experience should be offered by all digital courses in Australia.
So these comments are highly relevant to improving the state of digital media courses and their connection to industry.
December 2, 2008 at 8:03 pm
I feel that it is an ingrained culture. Teachers went to uni and they figure it worked out ok for them so they have no qualms telling students to go there. Problem is, lot of the teachers went to uni when it is free and just don’t understand the depression nature o a HECS debt!
Also, if your parents went to uni and it worked out ok for them then they’ll encourage you to go. If they didn’t, then they think it is an improvement on what they achieved and will encourage you to go.
A beer says that no one said to you “hey, classy marketing, what do you really know about uni and do you really think this is the best thing for you?”
December 4, 2008 at 11:11 am
Back then, the only way for our parents to obtain information was from an expert (prof) or the library. Now with the internet, anyone can become an expert on any subject given the information available without missing out on the required interaction with people more knowledgeable than you on a topic.
University is definitely loosing its edge, especially for us marketing students.
However, the only thing I discredit from my studies is the information I’m learning. I have gained invaluable social skills, presentation skills (in class) and built some good work habits.
December 10, 2008 at 9:24 am
Thanks guys for all your comments, some interesting points you’ve brought up! Made me think about the bigger picture & not just my own situation.
Zac, thanks for that idea, I will see what I can do!
Julian, thanks for the link I’ll check it out. The internet is a fad? Probably, but I wish it wasn’t!
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