Was I right? (dropping out of college)

LegacyUser

Bit of background before I get into my issue -

I'm a male in my late twenties, who has struggled for the past few years to figure out where I want to go in life. So far I've dropped out once from a college course, before going back and completing a year cert and then a 4 year degree. After college I faced the problem of having no experience to get work and, after ages trying, I decided to take a course through the Springboard scheme.

When I started, they were raving about how good this particular course was, the experience we'd be getting (it was made seem like we'd be working close with a business getting work experience) - it's now dawned on me that this was not the case at all, I've been doing no work in this course (not by choice - there's nothing to do) and the fact I've been on the Dole and broke has been severely affecting my mood, confidence and general wellbeing.

For the past few months, I've become increasingly annoyed with this course and have decided to leave to focus solely on applying for internships and jobs (I had success with internships previously, but turned down the interview to do this course instead). I cannot see the point in sticking to do something for a course that is effectively doing me no good- I'm not getting the experience I thought, I already have a pretty good qualification and don't really need another, and once the course finishes, I'm going to be in the exact same position as I am now.

The thing is that there's only three months left in the course, but I really can't stick it out. A few people are making me feel like I've made a mistake, but I genuinely know that it's the right choice for me personally.

I just want to get my life back on track again and get myself sorted with money, before it starts to really affect me. A few years ago I went through a pretty dark time (perhaps depression) due to similar reasons, and don't even want to risk getting like that again. I'm doing much better now, bar the broke and feeling inadequate because of this.

I've approached the social welfare with this and they've informed me that as long as I keep them in the loop; giving them a letter from the college saying I've left and then informing them if I've gotten work, then my payments shouldn't be affected. I've also given myself a deadline of September where, if I haven't gotten a job I want, I'll take any job I can get, which I should be able to do as I've got pretty good experience in certain areas.

I don't like talking about this with my family because they make me feel like I've made a mistake and that I'm basically stupid so.. are they right? I hope not. It feels right for me.

blatantrereg

I've taught some modules on Springboard programmes in IT the last couple of semesters, including two at HDip level. The programmes I've taught on are good overall, though obviously a bad lecturer can mitigate that substantially. Some students were very good indeed. Overall the programmes were as good or better than established programmes I've taught on at universities.

There's something seriously up if you have nothing to do. The HDip students had a significant workload. Any complaints were very much about having too much to do. I don't know what your programme is, but a higher diplomas really should entail a significant level of work, even for students with high aptitudes.

I wouldn't get too annoyed about the work experience not materialising. That sort of thing can happen and is likely to be outside the control of your college. However they absolutely should be giving you work to do instead.

I also wouldn't get too despondent about job prospects without double-checking your facts. Springboard programmes are set up specifically to address areas in the market where jobs are available.

I suggest you talk to the head of the department about your concerns regarding the programme. They will not want students to leave and should seek to address your concerns.

Lorna123

From what you have written it would appear that you will be no worse off if you leave this course as it is depressing you. You seem to have a good head on your shoulders and have plans. What's the point in sticking to this course for another 3 months and wasting your time when you already have better qualifications and this course is doing nothing for you. I think you are right to leave it.

CaraMay

If you have nothing to.do for the course then why don't you have time to do the course while looking for work.

You have taken up a place on this course that someone else could have used. Least you cab do is finish it. On top if that, we all have to do things we don't like it don't want to - that's life

Diziet

It's only 3 months - what is to stop you job hunting while you finish the course?