When we think of qualifications, we should not think of pieces of paper. It’s not that these certificates, Diplomas, awards, and whatnot are bad. They are affirmations that represent the completion of particular tasks or goals. They are useful symbols but in my experience they can be greatly overrated.

Like with anything else, not every degree is created equally. One has more value and worth than others. That’s not how education should be, but it has become that way as far as institutions are concerned. Real education comes from the self. As with anything you set yourself to do, the intent that you have affects the true outcome. If your only purpose in attending school is a piece of paper, then essentially you get only that.

Besides my high school diploma and a few various certificates of achievement that don’t mean too much, I don’t have any other pieces of paper to show for my time in “higher” education. To me, there is no such thing as higher learning. There is always more challenging work that can be done, yes. But it sounds like it’s above others and it’s not. That’s why I like the term continuing education and not higher learning. It’s always going to be about how much you put into it.

You shouldn’t have to be assigned tough stuff, you should just want to do it. But guidance and great teachers are invaluable. I’m just saying the paper is not anything but a symbol. If you only put in what’s asked it’s the bare minimum.

You have to actually have a purpose beyond potential financial rewards or just the degree or certificate itself. Financial security is a solid goal and intention but it’s not a purpose. Yes the money can be a consideration in what you study, but I see far too many people chase the money. You should chase passion, not the paycheck – I read that somewhere. Study to do something that fulfills you. The money you need will follow if you stay true to your passion. Never stop learning, too, because the more you know, the more valuable you become.


~ Amelia Desertsong, October 3, 2024