How Should You Approach Your Degree: Efficiency or Enjoyment?

[spaghetti3451]

Let's say you are studying for a degree.

1) Given your academic ability, if you work hard enough and efficiently, you would be able to complete all the degree modules within two years. Would you complete your degree in two years or would you move at the same pace as others so you can have enough time for enjoying yourself?

2) In addition, would you take all the optional modules in your degree course (to be thorough) or would you take the shortest route to the end?

What do you think? Is any straight answers to these questions?

I mean, what is the purpose of studying: to get a degree so you can get a job and make money? If that's what it's all about, then I don't think I need to be thorough, do I? I could take the shortest route to the end, right?

 

[xGAME-OVERx]

I think you need to decide what the degree means to you. Is it just a route to a job, or do you enjoy studying for its own sake?

Personally, I wish my degree lasted a year or two longer, there are several courses I wish I could have taken but didn't have time.

 

[spaghetti3451]

Is it just a route to a job

Well, if I make that my motivation, then I fear that my enthusiasm for my subject will drop. That's because I would not want to work in a physics-related profession as it pays less than if you're a quant, for example?? And if you really want to move into a finance-related field later, how do you keep yourself motivated to carry on studying physics?

or do you enjoy studying for its own sake?

Does anyone enroll on a college course just for the sake of studying? I am speaking of normal people (middle-class), not students with wealthy families.