#1: is getting an MSc. a mistake?

I don't know so I'll let you decide.

I thought getting an MSc. would somehow give me a visible shoulder pad. I imagined that as I strolled through the streets of Lagos with my newly acquired degree, everyone would instantly recognize this newfound status and accord me the respect I believed I deserved. But in reality, what I've gotten so far is the complete opposite of what I "ordered."

Having decided to get this degree immediately after my NYSC, I wasn't prepared for what was about to hit me. Some two years later, that single decision has shaped my life in ways I cannot even explain. It's been a bumpy and intense yet rewarding journey.

I remember romanticizing the idea of going back to school while watching Eni and Jessica on YouTube. To be honest, my decision to study at my school was 75% influenced by them. While this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, I didn't envisage the challenges that would come with it. I only looked forward to being in school again.

I want this article to do one of two things for you:

1. Help you decide if and why you want to get an MSc.
2. Give you a holistic idea of what getting this degree could mean.

The Dream

I remember thinking I’d gain admission into PAU, start creating content like “A day in the life of an MSc. student”, and show up to class looking like a million bucks, and that would be it. Haq haq haq—sorry for the laugh.

Social media is great for many reasons but more often than not, what we see is not the full picture. I don’t need to tell you that SM is a hub for halved realities and is often full of misrepresentation. That said, getting a certification or degree isn’t cute or easy just because Chizi is romanticizing hers with curated content.

If you think, “Oh, I’m going to love this career, this degree, or whatever” because someone makes it look so nice on social media, think again.

The Reality

This might be a "me" thing, but I'd like to argue that getting an MSc. these days doesn't hold as much value as it used to. Again, it might just be a "me" thing, but every other day, there’s one Tom, Dick, or Harry celebrating their graduation. It’s no news that many people have even adopted this as a relocation strategy, which is probably why it feels like everybody is getting a master's degree. This could create an illusion of being behind in life or even FOMO. But I’ll tell you for free—you’re not missing out on anything.

If, after doing proper research, you believe getting a master's is the best route for advancing your career, then by all means, go for it. However, don’t let FOMO or societal pressure dictate your choices. Take time to evaluate whether an MSc. is the right investment for your goals, and don’t be afraid to explore other options that might serve you better.

In the long run, an MSc. requires long-term commitment and dedication. Speaking from experience, it’s a journey of resilience, grit, and tenacity, and these qualities offer lifetime value even beyond the degree itself.

When does this decision become a mistake?

• You’re unclear about your reasons. If you’re pursuing the degree because “everyone else is doing it” or think it will automatically elevate your career, think again. Not every industry or organization values it. Many prioritize experience over qualification.

• You underestimate the demands. The workload, financial commitment, and emotional toll can be overwhelming if you’re not fully prepared.

• It’s a default decision. If you’re using it to avoid other uncertainties in your life—like figuring out your career path—do better.

Is it worth it?

For me, my MSc. journey has been humbling. It wasn’t the shiny badge of honor I initially imagined. In fact, it has forced me to sit with some of my deepest fears and opened my eyes to areas of my life that could use significant improvement. I’ve learned invaluable lessons about resilience, discipline, and understanding what I truly want.

Despite the adverse effects this had on my studies, one of the best decisions I made was to combine schooling with work. I wanted to apply the knowledge I was gaining practically, and being in the 'field' made it easier to make sense of what I was being taught. PAU's compulsory MSc. internship presented me with a unique opportunity to switch from doing mainstream marketing to public relations (PR), and now I have a much clearer idea of the career path I want to pursue for at least the next 3-5 years.

I hate to say it, but it was worth my while. While it challenged and stretched me in ways I hadn’t imagined, I wouldn't have it any other way. I've never been so stretched in my life. Omgg, I’m just a girl, yunno?

I said all of this to say that before you dive headfirst into getting an MSc., ask yourself: What do I truly want? And is this the best path to get there?

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WBUT - What’s Bolu Up To?

I have struggled to write anything personal for over a year. Every once in a while, I sense a burden to write something. Tbh, I don’t know what to write so I hope you stick with me while I figure this out. I’m challenging myself to show up weekly and I can’t wait to measure my growth in the next few months to one year.

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Reading: I’m reading a number of books at the moment lol, including The Richest Man in Babylon by George Samuel Clason cos I want to be intentional about how I handle money as I grow older; Never Give Up by Joyce Meyer cos I stumbled on it at home, and This is Marketing by Seth Godin because how will I explain that I’m a marketing comms girlie and not have gleaned from one of the very best to do Marketing.

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Watching: I watch YouTube a lot. Maybe with the new tariff hike, I’ll repent and do better things with my data. These days, you’ll most likely catch me watching Vee Kativhu’s channel or listening to a sermon on how to make the most of the new year. Oh oh, I’m currently watching Heart on the Line as well. If you don’t mind waiting for a new episode every week, join me.

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Listening: I rarely listen to music but Annatoria’s Christmas album and Anendlesocean’s JUBA is it. I’ll be listening to IB Quake’s This Year a lot this month.