After given much thought and careful planning, I've decided not to take up the Master of Technology course next year. MTech will take up 9-5 of all of my Saturdays for 2 ½ years, 20 full day weekday lessons, countless project meetings for major subjects, many deadlines to meet etc.. Adding another piece of paper to my collection isn't such a bad idea. I felt the time wasn't right though. There are many factors which made me change my mind.
I need to put this crazy paper chase on a more dissectible level. Initially, I felt the degree could enable me to shift to an academic position. Teach and perhaps lecture in schools instead of staying in the Industry for long. It is getting too dynamic for me, at times, plain suffocating. But I need more industrial experience, before taking on the role of imparting knowledge. By three years time, I don't think I have enough of that yet. And a pay cut would be inevitable if I am to change line. It's not the right time yet.
Another reason being the course content has the risk of being obsolete by the time I graduate. This MTech is solely on Technology based subjects; It is only contemporary to the time the syllabus is released. More conservative IT Project Management Methodologies and its applications, IT involvement in Strategic Business Planning etc are kept to a minimal. This will affect the value of the degree, and its worth in my career. I've already gotten CITPM, and it has already secured certain Project Lead responsibilities, but still it's not enough. My current company doesn't really appreciate it since there's no opening in the higher hierarchy to squeeze through for promotion. I am just waiting it out. It is still the wrong timing.
But the most important reason here is the quality of my life. I really wish to save up for traveling instead of paying for my school fees. I crave to go out with friends more often, to live life as vibrant as possible... , and of course, spending more time finding a life partner in that crazy arena called Love.
I want to improve my vocal techniques too, form gay and lesbian mini choir ensembles, learn more instruments, sing and play in public places, bring music to others etc..There are many books I want to read too, many places I want to go and many people I want to meet... ( or at least there's one particular guy .. :P ) All these will add into broadening my horizon and to give myself a more fulfilling and satisfying life. They were, initially my core interests and primary goals in life when I was younger. This should be the direction I must head now. It is the right time.
What is the use of being learned and wise, when there are no friends and love ones to share it with? What is the point of establishing a career when it is not my primary interest in life? What is the benefit of inflating my bank account with a fat pay when I don't have somebody I love to shower it upon? What am I doing with my life? For whom do I live for and for what purpose when finality comes knocking? I don't want to center my life on my career and money. By the time I have established them, can time be turned back for me to expend these tangibles to improve my life? I want my desires and purpose to be center around the man that I love, my family and friends, my passions in life etc. Only these can satisfy my thirst for satisfaction. It is the right time to start. Right now or never.
Semplice Simon
PS : I saw him at the hawker center just when I was looking for dinner. Wrong timing. I turned on my heels and walked off in haste. Over a plate of rice I asked myself, why this over-reaction. Two answers came. I am not that courageous yet, to face him, and who he is seeing. Next time, I will be brave enough.
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3 comments:
saw some1 at the hawker center? some1 u admire huh?
be brave orh. support u :P
Hi Simon,
Haven't spoken to you in a while. Anyway, been reading you blog occasionally, and think you have made the right decision.
Although I am a big fan of education (as you may have guessed by now), I think that if you want to pursue an academic line, perhaps getting an MTech is not the best way.
The paper chase in Singapore is overrated and really, there is little or no value added. My stance is, get further qualifications only if you need it, or if you are sure that academics is the path you want to take.
A bachelor's degree is good enough. It says, “I'm a smart chap and can think for myself.” I know too many people who are working in field not even remotely related to what they have studied and doing very well.
I suppose the important thing is to be happy with what you are doing. If you are going to work everyday thinking... I hate this, look for something else to do. If you are thinking there are little or no opportunities, look elsewhere.
You make your own opportunities. It might take time and effort, but believe me it's worth it if you know what you want.
al.
The most difficult part about swimming is plunging into cold water. Now that you're soaked with decision, go on - enjoy the lake of freedom.
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