University or Program? The Choice Is Yours.

Which came first, the chicken or the egg?

We have been trying to find an answer to this question for ages now, and while some scientists may have come up with their own versions of the answer (is there a correct answer?), what's more interesting is the debate the chicken and the egg have created. On a very different note, studying abroad too raises some questions that warrant debate. After all, it's education; dreams are on the line, the future is at stake.

Do you choose a university or do you choose a program? If you have thinking about applying abroad, brace yourselves. You'll want an answer before you book that one-way ticket.

Spoiler alert, though. You already know the answer. But you need some insight to tell yourself.

What does it mean, by the way, to choose a university or a program? Let's look at two fictional examples.

Example 1. Samia. Ever since she learned about the University of Here, she's been fascinated by it. The university, one of the top ranked institutions in the world, is a dream university for many. Its reputation precedes itself; it's often referred to in pop culture and social media, not to mention prestigious conferences and events worldwide. Anyone who attends the University of Here becomes Someone.

Example 2. Samir. During his A Levels, Samir developed an interest towards Physics, and wanted to become a mechanical engineer. He found that University of Here has an engineering program that has a department specialising in mechanical engineering, with favourable research opportunities and career guidance services. The professors are highly respected in their fields, too.

As you can see (and imagine), Samia is choosing the university, while Samir is opting to focus on the program. The choices, regardless of whether it's based on various parameters or simply their own personal choices, are their own. And there are merits and demerits to both.

The experiences of a student at an academic institution – be it for a four-year undergraduate program, a two-year Master's, or a PhD – are more than just the education in the classrooms. These years spent learning with friends, from teachers and mentors and living an independent life all on their own are arguably the most important years of their life. Therefore, it becomes crucial that these highly influential years are spent rediscovering oneself, building skills and preparing to take on the challenges of the world.

Why might one choose a university over a program? The reasons for this case are mostly general. Maybe the applicant prefers the location and climate. Maybe there's a chance at scoring a better financial aid package. Or maybe, like I mentioned, the name of the university is enough; the name will shine through the applicant's CV for the rest of their lives.

Another reason? "Dream university." Yes, I've had them and you probably have them too. Like a word in The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows, there should be a word for why many dream to get into a university, with the reason being "just because". Until then, we look at why one might take a program more seriously.

Truth be told, as we learn more about the application process and academic experiences, the benefits of choosing a program outweigh the reasons for the other option. One takes a deeper look into what is on offer in this case, going as far as communicating with faculty members and learning beforehand about the course curriculum and how it will impact their future careers. Many universities achieve their high rankings because of certain departments and programs, so one might want to read into that as well.

As mentioned, you will be surprised to find that sometimes it is a certain school or department at a university that is more popular than the university itself. Take the higher education institutes in Bangladesh, for example. It's probably easy to say which university is the top choice for students, but when it comes to picking a business degree or an engineering school, or perhaps liberal arts, it's a whole different ball game.

If you do find yourself trying to answer this question, here's a pro-tip: Get in touch with the students who are studying what you want to study, and at the university where you plan on applying. Nothing beats talking to someone who has been in your shoes, has made a decision and is experiencing what you will in the coming years.

Ask them why they chose the program, what classes they enjoy the most, what you can and can't do at the campus, how do they spend their free time (free time? They'll ask), how do they manage finances, what the job situation is like – ask them about everything; ask them about life. They'll know.

   Choosing to study abroad is perhaps the biggest investment for a young person. It goes without saying that the decision requires the perfect balance of an applicant's wants and needs, paired with knowledge and determination. Whether you pick a university, or prefer a program, make sure you make the most of it.