Follow your passion

For some time, I’ve been struggling to justify my degree choice to both myself, my peers and (to a lesser extent), Bermudian society as a whole.

I have recently sent a barrage of letters to the editor. While expressing my thoughts on current affairs, these letters have had a secondary purpose. All have drawn upon some form of literature, be it through an engagement with linguistic theory or the recruitment of a writer to support my argument. My letters have been self-consciously reflective of my academic pursuits; by adopting this line of reference I have hoped to illustrate how an English degree, or indeed any humanities degree, has a relevance not restricted to the ivory towers of academia.

The reason for my search for validation is quite simple. Any student exposed to the education systems of both Bermuda and the UK will feel, some more acutely than others, how these two different cultures posit a distinct valuation of higher education (I cannot comment upon North America: I have no experience in that regard). Bermudian culture has, I believe, become overwhelmingly pragmatic; the dominant trend in recent years has been for Bermudian students entering higher education to pursue degrees with a definite vocational bent, business and finance being the most popular. The UK, by contrast, does not advocate practical courses so strenuously. Indeed, the fiercest competition for places in the UK is found in English and History courses.

However, before proceeding further, I must stress there is nothing wrong with choosing to study a vocational course. It is when a vocational course is automatically chosen as a result of cultural pressures, without due consideration of other courses that I believe there is a problem. Nor do I make this claim without a defensible basis; the majority of my fellow high school graduates defaulted to a business degree.

This is the essential encouragement of Bermudian society: any Bermudian considering a college major will immediately recall the international business sector, a sector that has persisted in a form of quasi-social engineering; the majority of scholarships currently on offer are extended with the caveat of being available only to those whose degree has a relevance to the business community. Any Bermudian encountering this stipulation will invariably evaluate the merits of their degree; such qualification on the part of international businesses casts a dubious light on the potential job prospects for non-business grads.

Yet, this commentary is not a pointless and embittered invective. The international business community may behave as they see fit; indeed, it is logical for them to cultivate talent in a field which will be useful to them. The responsibility of Bermudian society as a whole is to be competitive, financially and, in a sense, intellectually. More scholarships need to be offered, catering to a wider gamut of degree choices.

Similarly, I feel that few students appreciate the pleasures of intellectual or cultural pursuits. Perhaps we should re-examine how the curriculum is structured; our schools need to target specific areas of interest, areas that are most easily identified by an open dialogue with students themselves. Introducing this measure of cooperation is not merely a facile attempt to engage students, for it simultaneously instils a greater sense of responsibility and moral value in pupils. Once students know their views are heard and considered, perhaps they will feel greater intellectual delight, a more concerted academic involvement.

Of course, I have no educational experience and my statements are purely opinionative; I cannot hope to gauge their success in practice and would not think to interfere with the politics of education. I have included my views because to flippantly criticise without offering solutions is hopelessly and odiously hypocritical. Also, the shrewd will have noticed this article is timed: I deliver it just as the mechanics of university admission are beginning to turn.

I wish to end by imploring students not to be deterred by the limitations of the job market. Once you are at university, you should follow your passion; do not be dissuaded; study what you feel is right. For with the right mix of determination, drive and talent in your chosen field, it becomes possible to do anything.

However, if university qualifies you to do anything, it also qualifies you to do one thing; a thing that the chairman of my department eloquently put to the new class of undergraduates on our first day: “Welcome to university. Your duty now, is to make the world a better place. You cannot resist this; it is your compulsion, and your fault for being so bright.”

Comments

[44-440 on 24.10.05 at 10:48]

your completely right. I have a Bachelors degree in Arts with a Major in History, and when I finished school and came back here I was contemptuously asked by many people, including those who had no experience of university, "what the hell are you going to use that for?" Unless you train to be a money counter many people in Bermuda feel you just wasted your time and you parents money.

[tilti on 24.10.05 at 11:12]

I entirely agree, which is a good thing seeing as I am a fourth year history major. I love what I study, and I love that a liberal arts degree allows you the time to take as many as nine electives which has given me the opportunity to take classes in politics, religion, classical myth and physics.
I think arts experience of reading and history is immensely beneficial for its ability to place the individual in a historical persepective, and to understand that the hegemony that we operate under is the result of myriad influences, and just as that hegemony was created, so can it be changed. I think this is where you go with a lot of your posts – we created a lot of the problems we have, they’re not timeless/universal, therefore we have the power to change them.
Having said all of this, however, I sometimes am panged by the feeling that my studies are elitist, an upper class novelty. I will be reading the Illiad, Hegel and Foucault’s discourse on sexual identity and think to my self “this stuff is great, but it has no relation to the outside world.” What is worse, most academics see no need to try and integrate it to a popular audience as universities exist in an sphere that essentially operates outside of the regular demands of the market. This isn’t to suggest that I don’t think that people should not pursue an arts degree. I worked at a bank this summer and have a huge problem with business students who don’t know who James Joyce is and don’t care to know. But, I do feel as though I can pursue these studies because I have a certain level of financial comfort and don’t have a pressing need to graduate and instantly start making a lot of money so I can a. support my family b. start repaying massive student loans.
In this sense the impetus should perhaps not be on the students to take a leap of faith in pursuing an arts degree and then hoping they can find a job. Rather, there should be a shift to companies to recognize the value of liberal arts when selecting scholarships and recruiting. I think there is the beginning of a shift in this direction; many current CEO’s now are arts students, a lot of books are criticizing the MBA (fueled by the fact that Enron’s CEO was top of his class at Harvard’s MBA program).

[Yet Another Limey on 24.10.05 at 11:17]

Humanities students post educational work training:

Repeat after me – ‘would you like fries with that’

;)

[Cancundreaming on 24.10.05 at 11:28]

An impressive piece, it rings true, at least my 'truth' as it is exactly how i approached 'higher education' and suppose i will see how it works out.

[Tiger Bay on 24.10.05 at 12:04]

Edward, you are describing the North American liberal arts curriculum.

[Raptor on 24.10.05 at 12:57]

(Tilti): "I think arts experience of reading and history is immensely beneficial for its ability to place the individual in a historical perspective, and to understand that the hegemony that we operate under is the result of myriad influences, and just as that hegemony was created, so can it be changed. I think this is where you go with a lot of your posts – we created a lot of the problems we have, they’re not timeless/universal, therefore we have the power to change them."

Yes!

We need idea people, (not just business idea people).

[WSJ on 24.10.05 at 13:31]

Yet another Limey
I disagree entirely. The undergraduate experience of a liberal arts degree is a far better way to spend your time than focusing on subject specific, like business. There is a lot more to the undergraduate experience than can be gained by focusing on a vocational subject, such as business. A liberal arts degree teaches a person to think, to question, to explore. If you are subsequently interested in the business world go back and get an MBA. I have worked in the banking world for 30 years. In my experience, what little skills that are taught in a B.Comm or business BA can easily be learned by an intelligent liberal arts graduate in their first few years on the job and banks (for instance) will hire a broad range of university grads, not just business majors, and encourage them to take business specific courses to give them the "business skills" required in entry level positions.

[ace on 24.10.05 at 14:01]

I have a BA in Political Science.

After a few years of painting houses after university I went back to school and got my CA.

[The Other Susan on 24.10.05 at 14:10]

WSJ, Yet Another Limey has tossed out the old chestnut bandied around Queen's, and probably other universities.

And your words are very reassuring to me as the mother of a certain history major posting on here!

[Ethiops on 24.10.05 at 14:34]

Nice piece - More scholarships need to be offered, catering to a wider gamut of degree choices.

So well said.

[Yet Another Limey on 24.10.05 at 14:49]

WSJ: Sorry to cause offence, it’s the oldest joke in the book.

However, many a truth said in jest:
% of 2003 UK graduates working as ‘Retail assistants, catering, waiting and bar staff

English: 14.3
History: 14.8
Business: 8.7

(from http://www.prospects.ac.uk/cms/ShowPage/Home_page/What_do_graduates_do__2005/p!eaLbdff)

[Adjustah on 24.10.05 at 15:05]

YAL

"Humanities students post educational work training:

Repeat after me – ‘would you like fries with that’"

Said with all the humor that your left brain could muster, eh?

[Striker on 24.10.05 at 15:50]

Yet another Limey said: "Humanities students post educational work training: Repeat after me – ‘would you like fries with that’
"

And the other one:

"What are you studying?"

"English/French/History/Delete as appropriate"

"Oh, that's great. Where do you want to teach?"

More seriously though, are there ACTUALLY cases where studying a non business related degree have hindered a Bermudian's entrance into a Bermuda based company in the IB sector? I have no numbers to draw from, but I would have thought that a university educated Bermudian looking for an entry level position in one of these companies would have no troubles whatsoever - the chance to train up a bright young person who's not going to have to apply for a work permit every third year? Great! If they've got the interest, then surely the HR department aren't going to care that their degree was not business or even economics related.

My point being: lack of scholarships aside, if indeed an aversion to non-vocational degrees exists then surely it's not an aversion that has been stregthened due to the hiring policies of IB companies in Bermuda? Anyone care to confirm or refute based on personal experience?

[Intrigued on 24.10.05 at 16:20]

While I would like to support Mr. Rance's thesis I find I cannot.

If you decide that you want to return to Bermuda and have a career that generates sufficient funds to live comfortably, liberal arts is not the way to go. Unless you choose to do an MBA, CA, CFA or other such professional finance/insurance designation. Yes you may learn alot in your liberal arts program, but unfortunately it will be wasted in business. Those who choose sooner will get a head start and you are unlikely to catch up.

All to often I receive resumes from individuals such as yourself and I am saddened that an obviously smart individual has not been given adequate career guidance. The gap between liberal arts and business is large. A completely different language, on of accounting, time value of money, risk and returns. The average employer sadly will nto take on the extra work of mentoring and training someone who has not shown the initiative to be properly trained for the position they are seeking.

If of course a career that is challenging and profitable is not your goal, then you are doing exactly the right thing. Go for it.

Thankfully when I was your age this was not the reality and I was lucky enough to have a shot with a liberal arts education. I still eventually got the MBA and CA however.

Finally, I can't resist pointing out, that in business cutting to the chase is a key skill. Your posting is somewhat lengthy and I very nearly lost interest three or four times. Well written but not particularly effective communication.

One man's opinion. Worth what you paid for it.

[WSJ on 24.10.05 at 16:38]

Ace
Are you saying you wished you had concentrated on accountancy at under grad level and gone straight into a CA program, or did you enjoy the range of courses you likely took in Poli Sci?
I am not disputing the likely requirement for further education after under grad level, whatever you end up pursuing as a career, but merely the necessity to "specialise" when a broader learning experience is, IMO, more fulfilling, and to a great extent, the whole point of going to university in the first place.

On Edward's point, I would also agree that there a a paucity of scholarships for the humanities and also for science subjects, in Bermuda. However, given the small economy and the concentration on insurance, accountants, etc, not surprising.

[Intrigued on 24.10.05 at 16:54]

I have to post once more. Anyone who has read any of my posts knows that I am an advocate of change in the educational system in Bermuda. One area in particular I believe needs changing is career counseling. Increasingly there are haves and have nots in Bermuda because there are only a limited number of careers where individuals can still make a comfortable living. Our students unfortunately are not given enough information on the realities of the real world in Bemruda. Your posting here I think is a perfect example of someone who has gone down a path and now realizes it may have been the wrong one. Instead of looking for help you are trying to justify your decisions.

I have nested my comments, in your original posting, in which I have tried to paraphrase what you have said in order to show others in your footsteps what I believe are errors in judgement, and that by so doing I will hopefully send them in the right direction. I am not trying to be mean spirited.

Edward Rance writes:

For some time, I’ve been struggling to justify my degree choice to both myself, my peers and (to a lesser extent), Bermudian society as a whole.

>> I am clearly the only one in step, why can’t they see it.

I have recently sent a barrage of letters to the editor. While expressing my thoughts on current affairs, these letters have had a secondary purpose. All have drawn upon some form of literature, be it through an engagement with linguistic theory or the recruitment of a writer to support my argument. My letters have been self-consciously reflective of my academic pursuits; by adopting this line of reference I have hoped to illustrate how an English degree, or indeed any humanities degree, has a relevance not restricted to the ivory towers of academia.

>> I am struggling to find a useful purpose for my education in the real world.

The reason for my search for validation is quite simple. Any student exposed to the education systems of both Bermuda and the UK will feel, some more acutely than others, how these two different cultures posit a distinct valuation of higher education (I cannot comment upon North America: I have no experience in that regard). Bermudian culture has, I believe, become overwhelmingly pragmatic; the dominant trend in recent years has been for Bermudian students entering higher education to pursue degrees with a definite vocational bent, business and finance being the most popular. The UK, by contrast, does not advocate practical courses so strenuously. Indeed, the fiercest competition for places in the UK is found in English and History courses.

>> I am upset that Bermudian’s are so pragmatic, and are taking courses that will lead to a career. Why couldn’t I be from the U.K. where I might fit in better and not need to be pragmatic.

However, before proceeding further, I must stress there is nothing wrong with choosing to study a vocational course. It is when a vocational course is automatically chosen as a result of cultural pressures, without due consideration of other courses that I believe there is a problem. Nor do I make this claim without a defensible basis; the majority of my fellow high school graduates defaulted to a business degree.

>> I don’t like being out on a limb (taking risks like business people are expected to) so I am covering my ass with this disclaimer. Don’t want to tread on anyone’s toes.

This is the essential encouragement of Bermudian society: any Bermudian considering a college major will immediately recall the international business sector, a sector that has persisted in a form of quasi-social engineering; the majority of scholarships currently on offer are extended with the caveat of being available only to those whose degree has a relevance to the business community. Any Bermudian encountering this stipulation will invariably evaluate the merits of their degree; such qualification on the part of international businesses casts a dubious light on the potential job prospects for non-business grads.

>> Some general whining about how unfair that those who are granting scholarships want to get something in return that you aren’t prepared to offer.

Yet, this commentary is not a pointless and embittered invective. The international business community may behave as they see fit; indeed, it is logical for them to cultivate talent in a field which will be useful to them. The responsibility of Bermudian society as a whole is to be competitive, financially and, in a sense, intellectually. More scholarships need to be offered, catering to a wider gamut of degree choices.

>> Why more scholarships for a wider gamut of degrees? You have failed so far to argue the imperative of having more Bermudian with diverse educational backgrounds. This is a very small island with very narrow skills required given the economy – just is that way.

Similarly, I feel that few students appreciate the pleasures of intellectual or cultural pursuits. Perhaps we should re-examine how the curriculum is structured; our schools need to target specific areas of interest, areas that are most easily identified by an open dialogue with students themselves. Introducing this measure of cooperation is not merely a facile attempt to engage students, for it simultaneously instils a greater sense of responsibility and moral value in pupils. Once students know their views are heard and considered, perhaps they will feel greater intellectual delight, a more concerted academic involvement.

>> I think you are trying to say that if there are broader curriculums students will work harder. Perhaps, but you still need to address why we need graduates with liberal arts degrees/training. Also, I take offence to your first statement on behalf of many earnest young business students I have met. The top business school/law school achievers find time for intellectual and cultural pursuits. They are not one dimensional.

Of course, I have no educational experience and my statements are purely opinionative; I cannot hope to gauge their success in practice and would not think to interfere with the politics of education. I have included my views because to flippantly criticise without offering solutions is hopelessly and odiously hypocritical.

>> I have reread your comments several times and fail to find any specific solutions, only opinions.

I wish to end by imploring students not to be deterred by the limitations of the job market. Once you are at university, you should follow your passion; do not be dissuaded; study what you feel is right. For with the right mix of determination, drive and talent in your chosen field, it becomes possible to do anything.

>> Feel free to ignore the obvious benefits of being pragmatic. If your smart enough you can do anything. Indeed, you can - unfortunately too few are that smart, present company included. For more on the benefits of a pragmatic approach see my previous post. Please don’t drag others along with you.

However, if university qualifies you to do anything, it also qualifies you to do one thing; a thing that the chairman of my department eloquently put to the new class of undergraduates on our first day: “Welcome to university. Your duty now, is to make the world a better place. You cannot resist this; it is your compulsion, and your fault for being so bright.”

>> Oh to still own the rose coloured glasses of my youth.

Thank you for posting your beliefs. It certainly takes courage to do so in a setting such as this. I do wish you well.

[ace on 24.10.05 at 18:23]

Ace
Are you saying you wished you had concentrated on accountancy at under grad level and gone straight into a CA program, or did you enjoy the range of courses you likely took in Poli Sci?

My friend I enjoyed every second I was in that university...all five years of it. LOL

When I got out though I started to get very....hungry. Not hungry in terms of hungry to have a great career....hungry as in "Where's my greeze?"

When I did manage to scrape up enough coins for a meal in a restaurant I was served by some very well educated English and History majors...some of whom I knew from University.

Bottom line...I had a GREAT time in University but in retrospect I wish I had gone straight into accounting and not wasted soooo much time.

[xc on 24.10.05 at 18:53]

From an IB perspective, hiring decisions are made on the basis of the contribution that the candidate is likely to make to the business.

How does that translate into hiring policy?

I would say a good manager is looking for a few different things, depending of course on the role (client-facing or otherwise):
Aptitude in role
Personality
Balance
Commitment

Your degree topic is going to have an impact on aptitude for the role - clearly an MBA is going to drop into a lot of the work required by IB easier than a history graduate. But would the MBA have as much balance as the history graduate? I certainly would not hire a supremely ambitious Harvard MBA who has never read a novel, nor would I want the most accomplished technical actuary who cannot sustain a friendly conversation with a client. Please forgive the stereotypes, they are certainly not fair but I'm trying to make a point...

Commitment is an interesting one - I would always question why a candidate wants the job. Is underwriting your idea of an easy way to make some $$$ whereas your passion will always be to teach history? Or do you view the discipline you gained as a stepping stone for the next challenge in life? If it's the latter then I'm interested.

So I guess my answer is absolutely study your preferred course because it won't preclude your entry into Bermuda's IB as long as you are pursuing the career for the right reasons. Some of the most successful people I know in IB studied natural sciences and arts at college.

On the topic of scholarships, who exactly should be offering them? Remember that the capital in IB belongs to the shareholders, very few of whom have much philanthropic interest in Bermuda. The employees cannot simply give away money because we're nice guys - it's not our money. I generally support scholarships but they will always be targeted with the expectation of some return.

xc

[observor on 24.10.05 at 19:56]

If financial resources permit, I strongly recommend a liberal arts degree followed by pursuit of a specific professional designation. In my experience many Bermudians jump directly in to some form of a business degree, often at the expense of satisfactorily developing important analytical, reasoning and writing skills, cornerstones of a liberal arts program.

By narrowing degree choices and concentrating on the development of specific skill sets versus a broader approach to learning that is more encompassing and comprehensive, returning students seem to end up with material gaps in communication and problem-solving skills.

[tilti on 24.10.05 at 20:01]

I hope that I am not the only one disgusted with the simple minded analysis of that intrigued gives to the piece.

The statement:

"If of course a career that is challenging and profitable is not your goal, then you are doing exactly the right thing [by pursuing a liberal arts degree]. Go for it."

is rude, condescending and arrogant as it assumes that anything outside of the financial sector is a cop out and easy. Personally I see a career in a accountancy as cop out. If I fail to in my efforts to apply a historical understanding of the world in any meaningful way I would go back to school, pump out some standardized exams get a CA and spend the rest of my career in a non challenging meaningless, albeit (disproportionately) profitable, industry. Before that grim fate arrives however I would like to apply my knowledge to something valuable.
My personal experience with business students has been disappointing. While interning at a bank, my fellow interns were mostly black and a lot of conversation would center on racism. Much of the discussion would be on personal experience, which only ends up going in narrow circles. I wanted to liken a point to American racial history so I mentioned Harriet Beacher Stowe, nobody knew who I was talking about. I was curious so I kept prodding: Uncle Tom's Cabin? No. Frederick Douglas? No. Shay's Rebellion? No. Harper Lee? No. Darfur? No. Tom Clancy? Yes. (!)
There is a value in business degrees as international business is the main contributor to Bermuda's economy. But, it is not what makes Bermuda what it is; there was a history before ACE and XL, and such a narrow focus is scary as it creates the kind of ahistorical understanding of our past that Calvin Smith has recently demonstrated. If Bermuda wants a stable future it needs more than accountants, and this is something that government should recognize when looking to award scholarships.
I also thought the insinuation that my academic study is the result of poor career counseling a false assumption. I graduated as head prefect from one of the best high schools in North America where two out three of our guidance counselors held doctorates: I had a choice and I chose the arts education, and felt validated this summer by hearing the President and CEO of ACE Bermuda explain that he was a history grad, and that the analytical skills it provided proved invaluable in the business world. The best businesses are the ones that take the time to find the best employees, employees with a diverse set of skills that can lend ideas to businesses that constantly have to change.

[Edward Rance on 24.10.05 at 20:40]

Its pleasing to see a first post receives such a wide body of mixed opinions. Obviously, I opened myself to criticism when I posted, but there is one particular post I'd like to comment upon.

To quote Intrigued:

Your posting here I think is a perfect example of someone who has gone down a path and now realizes it may have been the wrong one.

Doubts will inevitably assault any student at one point in their degree, but I take issue with the fact that Intrigued assumes I’ve embarked on my studies without thinking things through. Before considering my university application, I consulted with the human resource departments of numerous London law, accountancy and insurance firms. The response I overwhelming received is that when considering graduates, degree choice is largely irrelevant; employers, with the preponderance of new universities and increasing number of graduates, are more concerned with the caliber of degrees. Having a 1st class degree in English from reputable university is more impressive to these employers that a 2nd class degree in business.

I will concede that my inquiries to Bermudian based firms were not nearly as heartening. Employers in Bermuda are looking for an increasingly narrow range of qualifications. I realized this when I applied to read English. It merely saddens me, as a Bermudian, that my country essentially disallows me to study my chosen degree and succeed. The doubts I confessed to when opening the article were the result of a realization that Bermudian businesses are less than receptive to a wide range of degrees. I have reconciled myself to the fact that I will need to stay in the UK to enter the job market here; it is not enough to be intelligent to find a job in certain areas of the Bermudian economy, you must be intelligent within certain criteria.

Also, Intrigued said:

Please don’t drag others along with you.

I am expressing my views. Others can respond to them as they see fit. Indeed, one of the reasons behind advocating so strongly for liberal arts degrees is so graduates can think and judge for themselves.

[hadenuff on 24.10.05 at 20:52]

Intrigued,

You are wrong.

IB is looking for top notch attitude, behaviour, analytical skills, lateral thinking, committment to continuing education and just plain "showing up to work on time". Normally hard to find in the Bermudian workforce.

A savy IB recruiter will recognise these attributes are instilled in any graduate of a top notch university and certainly attainable at any decent institution of higher education.

The wise business person will recognise that strength is achieved through diversity of thought and opinion and will actively seek out such. If you prefer a mindless army of clones, please continue your current hiring practices and I shall be quite happy!

By the way:

"Your posting is somewhat lengthy and I very nearly lost interest three or four times. Well written but not particularly effective communication."

Much to learn, methinks.

[The Limey on 24.10.05 at 21:08]

If after leaving school, someone thinks that they know what career they want to pursue, they should feel free to choose a degree course that will prepare them for it. If their aim is to become a doctor or a lawyer, it's probably essential.

But I think that everyone else should study a course that interests them and worry about the career later.

When I left school, I had no idea what I wanted to do. My dad introduced me to computers while I was growing up and I had a lot of fun with them. But the idea of working in that field never occurred to me. I chose my degree course through a process of elimination: I had studied maths, chemistry and physics at A-level and found chemistry too dull and the prospect of degree-level maths too scary. So I chose physics, pitched to me as a good scientific/mathematical foundation that would let me go in a variety of directions. (I didn't know enough about any other subjects to want to pursue those instead, even computer science.)

It wasn't until the end of the second year of my three year course that I decided I wanted to get into software development, after a stint writing FORTRAN in the nuclear physics labs. But I knew nothing about PCs, nothing about Windows.

Nevertheless, I got a job in an IT firm after graduation. I started in a project control role, helping put together tenders for IT contracts that my firm was bidding for. It was a role that my physics degree didn't help me in one bit. And there was no software development involved in it. But being in the IT industry allowed me to shift my role towards development over time. I taught myself what I needed to persuade someone in the firm to give me a development job; once I was doing it, I was able to build up my skills further. No computer science degree was necessary.

So for me, getting a university degree was about demonstrating an ability to think. It wasn't about learning information.

Nevertheless, I accept that is a UK view, and that in the US (and maybe Bermuda) employers prefer their employees to have trained in the appropriate field. I agree with Edward: I think that's unfortunate. There are many people who have no idea what field they want to work in when they leave school. Why force them to choose so early? And what if after three or four years of study they discover they have no interest in that field after all?

A degree teaches you many things. The course material is just one aspect of it, and to my mind not a particularly important one. Had I studied maths or chemistry I would probably still be where I am today.

"Follow your passion" sounds like a good motto to live by to me.

[SmokingGun on 24.10.05 at 21:19]

"nor would I want the most accomplished technical actuary who cannot sustain a friendly conversation with a client. Please forgive the stereotypes, they are certainly not fair but I'm trying to make a point..."

I actuary sat next to one of those on the plane once........loooong flight. ;)

BTW - Intrigued, you seem to have spent an awful long time on shredding Mr. Rance. Long winded maybe but the general gist is that unfortunately Bermuda really is becoming a one trick pony for it's younger generations. There is a definite need for diversity in jobs and careers outside of just business. I mean, had Bermuda had more theatre and entertainment the former Tyco Toons wouldn't have had to go all the way to Greece to have a $2 million birthday bash in search of their by semi-naked Grecian Goddesses.

[Ethiops on 24.10.05 at 22:13]

This seems like a good time for a Chinese Proverb...

“There are many roads to the top of the mountain, but, the view is always the same”.

For those that didn't finish schooling yet, managed to follow their passions nonetheless. I think a topic like this goes deep when we apply it to today and on a personal level. Many put 20years into something because it was a source of income or security etc. It's not easy once settled into a routine to up and move once a moment of clarity comes along and lets you know you're doing everything other than follow your passions. I do agree that anything that can help young Bermudians see the realities of their future in the world’s workplace can only be good. Some will always stray away from the call of further education though for whatever reasons.
I think it’s a healthy thing to stop and ask oneself are we following our passions. In the real world I live some will lol and say “shit if I only knew what my passions are, I could let you know if I’m following um”, so many people are caught in the grind it’s sad. I’d like to think information alone can help many people find the slots they so need to fit into. People doing what pleases them would equal a lot less stress all cross the board. I’m going to be bold and say that malnutrition and not following ones passions are the root of probably all sickness.

[Ethiops on 24.10.05 at 22:19]

SmokingGun

semi-naked Grecian Goddesses hahahahahahahaha
So true so true.

[JJ on 25.10.05 at 08:47]

"Actuaries make accountants appear interesting"

anon

[Walla on 25.10.05 at 08:49]

I cannot be unique in my thinking. I don't believe that a university degree (particularly a Bachelors) is primarily concerned with imparting on you specific knowledge that once gained will be useless in life. I found the experience trying to teach me to think, research etc. Essentially it allows you to exercise and develop your skills and i think that you develop a similar skill set in almost every degree.
I firmly believe that you must position yourself in a way that makes you attractive to your market (yes, i studied business). Therefore, business is a plausible choice. Good advice and access to opportunity are essential. I think we are very privileged in Bermuda to have so many scholarships available to us already (must be one of the highest per capita ratios in the world). I think more internships would be hugely beneficial, similar to the program run by (and im not sure about this) The BOB, E&Y and Ace?? Here students are given an invaluable introduction to a variety of business.

[Uncle Elvis on 25.10.05 at 09:18]

Come on, guys and girls, don't know know that IB is the ONLY way to be successful? You HAVE to be an accountant, or you aren't a success!
Forget about being able to write properly, spell properly, use proper grammar, as long as you can read a spreadsheet of numbers!
Forget being happy, as long as you're rich!

Having said that, I DO recommend a business course while you're at college. Not as a major (Unless that's what you want), but just as an added skill. I know from hard experience that not knowing anything about running a business is NOT the way to go, if you want to start your own.

One last thing...
Ethiops, sorry to bust on ya again, but...

"I’m going to be bold and say that malnutrition and not following ones passions are the root of probably all sickness"

Um.

Bacteria. Viruses. Genetics. Environmental factors. THOSE are the root of sickness.

[Yet Another Limey on 25.10.05 at 09:36]

In a less flippant reply to this, in my experience of the UK system if you get a good degree (first) from a good university (Oxbridge) and have a range of extra curricular activities on your CV (charity, sports, running clubs and societies), then employers will actively compete to hire you in almost any industry regardless of whether you did accountancy or ancient Greek.

However if you get a lower class degree from one of the less well renowned universities and spend your free time drinking in the local bar then it’s a different matter.

[Shark on 25.10.05 at 09:46]

My heart is set on desighning computer games and that is why im in the UK so many choices instead of being stuck to Economics and Buisness (as i find both boring).

So just chose a degree that your heart and intrest is in and you cant go wrong and ignor what other people think is the best choice for you.

[Intrigued on 25.10.05 at 09:57]

First let me state that in a much larger country where, there are a myriad of career paths, I fully support someone pursuing their passion before deciding what to do as a career. Those individuals who do so certainly may then find it very useful as the move on through life, some may not. It is a personal choice, and if funds permit choose your own path.

My post was however in the context of Bermuda. We unfortunately have limited paths here that provide job security and financial health: doctor, lawyer, accountant, insurance professional. Not my doing, but a reality. Sure there are lots of individuals doing very well outside those professions, but the odds of being one of those individuals are low in my assessment, unless you have the entrepreneur’s gene. And yes there are lots of careers that are not as handsomely rewarded that are extremely valuable to the community: teachers certainly come to mind.

That said, I posted what I believe, and still believe, is the best advice for the average Bermudian who wants to return to the island. In a perfect world this wouldn’t be the case, and I am saddened that it is, but that is how I see it.

Times have changed. As I said “Thankfully when I was your age this was not the reality and I was lucky enough to have a shot with a liberal arts education. I still eventually got the MBA and CA however.” I don’t like the situation today, however I surely am not going to put my head in the sand and ignore it. Yes there are those such as the CEO of ACE Bermuda who have interesting backgrounds, however he entered the business in a different time. It is easy for him to say what the benefits of a liberal arts background are, and I am not arguing that there aren’t any, but my experience says recruiters on average discount those benefits substantially.

As I said, “If your smart enough you can do anything. Indeed, you can - unfortunately too few are that smart, present company included.” You Mr. Rance obviously are very intelligent, perhaps you are one of those who can pull it off. Indeed, staying in the UK where you find the application process more accepting is probably a good approach as I firmly believe that time spent overseas cutting your teeth in the “real world” is highly valuable. But from your postings it seems you desire to return now and are dissatisfied with what you see as major hurdles here. You did your research and seem to know the state of affairs, complaining about it doesn’t help anyone, you made a choice, continue your education and early career in the U.K. and then return.

I apologize for nothing said, I remain convinced that “Increasingly there are haves and have nots in Bermuda because there are only a limited number of careers where individuals can still make a comfortable living. Our students unfortunately are not given enough information on the realities of the real world in Bermuda.” Further, I find it abhorrent that those who are not capable of obtaining a university degree are not trained in skills that would give them a better shot at a good life in Bermuda as it stands today. We have one path, scholastic, and not all children are fitted to that path, yet we continue to force them though the funnel. A travesty.

I again repeat that Mr. Rance is obviously a highly intelligent individual and I am glad he had the guts to post.

[bw&p?? on 25.10.05 at 10:10]

The title of Edwards piece says it all : "Follow Your Passion". - unless you're very fortunate, university is probably one of the only times in life that you are truly allowed to pursue your 'passion' - these years should be savoured like a hot black coffee and a rolled cigarette on a cold winter day.
I went to university after working and saving for 12 years to afford it. I think the time in between (which may have been a little too long) allowed me the opportunity to decide what I really wanted and gave me the appreciation of a dollar earned, which forced me to focus on the task at hand. Saying that, I did find the time to allow myself to fall into all the trappings of 'stewgent' life - and I am so glad that I knew then what I didn't know before! The down side is that although I earned 2 degrees, a Bachelors and Masters, in engineering I currently find myself employed in the reinsurance industry - clearly far removed from my passion, but at this stage in life it's the almighty dollar that drives my pursuits - sad, I know. Personally, I believe that a knowledge of history and the arts are an asset and give one a broader and deeper sense of purpose. Ideally, if I could of afforded it, I would have pursued a history/geography degree early in life and then gone back later for engineering.

footnote to SG; having been educated in the UK I can attest to the benefits of semi naked Grecian Goddesses - the sunny beaches of Greece were a haven on the occassional long weekends. Maybe thats the antidote to our tourism woes - topless beaches!! - just a thought

[Lisa on 25.10.05 at 10:12]

The Limey said:

"If after leaving school, someone thinks that they know what career they want to pursue, they should feel free to choose a degree course that will prepare them for it. If their aim is to become a doctor or a lawyer, it's probably essential."

I feel the need to point out that it's not essential to immediately start with law as an undergrad. You can do a degree in History or whatever you like and then do a year conversion at law shcool.

You are only behind a year by the time you graduate from law shcool but you are more likely to get a good job because of your diverse background.

Similarly, with medicine - you can do a BSc first and then start med shcool 3 years later quite easily.

I have doctor and lawyer friends who have done just this. Likewise, I have a friend who obtained a PhD in Physics before going into business. He jumped WAY up the ladder into a very high paid job as soon as he finsihed his PhD and ended up senior to people who was at university with him while he did his undergrad.

My advice would be that if you can afford it and have the time - don't rush into a specific career path - because you may end up having a better job sooner if you focus more on being a well rounded individual rather than a drone.

L.

[Lisa on 25.10.05 at 10:24]

Just want to add to that my sister, who studied History first at university - is now the Legal Counsel and Company Secretary for one of Bermuda's reinsurance companies - and she's only 30.

I, on the other hand, have completely shunned IB altogether and am proud of it. I did a BSc and don't earn much now and am very happy.

I wish Bermudians were not encouraged to be so materialistic and money grabbing.

We need better Bermudian teachers, more Bermudians trained in special needs education (we've got over 100 kids with autism alone and hardly any Bermudians trained to work with them). We need more Bermudian scientists, architects, engineers etc. (to my knowledge most of them are ex-pats). There are many career opportunties here, which do not involve screwing people over for hideous amounts of profit and directly and/or indirectly contributing to social and environmental damage in the third world.

Ooops - sorry went into rant mode there.

L.

[Point Finger on 25.10.05 at 10:54]

I think that the fact that you are writing about the validity of an Arts degree answers your own question.

In N America, it is known as "pre Law"- you take Liberals Arts to boost your GPA so you can get into Law school,and party hard while you do it- minimal course load. If a resume came across my desk with an Arts degree, I would be looking hard at what experience the person had, for the above reason.

I took Engineering, and the guys that failed out of this went into Business and then after failing that went to Arts ,to get a degree. The fact of the matter is a Arts degree is a dime a dozen.

If you want to teach, then Arts maybe be a viable course to take-but you are limiting your options. If you are not sure of what profession you want to be in, a Business degree is a great foundation that will offer alot more options than Arts.

In Engineering they required you take 3 optional classes- eg Arts, business or whatever you like to broaden your horizons. You can still take another degree, and have a minor in those fields that interest you.

Time is the most critical factor- spending 4 years and countless dollars on an Arts degree, sounds like a great topic to debate for a week in a Philosophy class.

Let’s face it, Political science- if that isn't the definition of an oxymoron

[SmokingGun on 25.10.05 at 12:56]

"the antidote to our tourism woes - topless beaches!!"

The antidote to much more than that my friend. :)

That'll get the guys off the wall to help rake glass out of the sand and hand out Pop & Sizzle Flags.

[TheRealDeal on 25.10.05 at 12:56]

Edward I am impressed. However, I will point out that your degree will be quite useless, unless you decide to go into law / teaching within the context of Bermuda. This island has very few jobs that will support an English degree. Sorry to say other then the ability to write great prose, poetry and have an extremely massive vocabulary; putting pen to paper rarely places food on the table nor does it provide a roof over your head. (Unless you decide to flip burgers in the day and write a new series of novels in the evenings. How about Edward Rance - "The Missing Black Seal Bottle" - The Bermie Harry Potter Version). However, even then you might have wanted to learn something about business as then would have an idea on how to market and fund your creation. So to conclude my advice to you, really think where you will be after school and what will the environment / location support. If it has a thriving business market (as does Bermuda) then you are without a doubt wasting your time (unless you want to be a teacher or a lawyer; businesses need legal advice and CEO's kids need an education.)

TheRealDeal

The person who came up with the quote "Money can't buy happiness" should have added, "Just Kidding."

[SmokingGun on 25.10.05 at 13:36]

Advertising, Publishing, News Reporter, Media, Charitable Causes, Artist, Musician, Actor, Chef, Horticulturist, Teaching or Assistant Teaching, Shakespearean translator and speech writer to the Premier, amongst other things. Beauty about being Bermudian is that when it comes to work it's pretty easy to get two or three paying jobs. So maybe you can mix and match until you've figured out your true calling. One job that might be viable for liberal arts majors but unfortunately is not considered full-time/full-paying is as an elected Politician. Maybe we should change that.

[Uncle Elvis on 25.10.05 at 14:51]

As an autodidact who didn't go to college or university, I have to disagree with you that there's little chance of financial success outside of IB.
One of Bermuda's downfalls is the lack of existing opportunities. It's also one of its strengths.
The lack of existing opportunities means that young people with the drive and will to do something have a niche that needs to be filled.
That's the thing that's needed here, in addition to intelligence. Drive. It gets you WAY further than it would in most places. Just look at Fresh TV! Fuelled almost solely by drive, as there's no discernable talent or skill involved.
Hell, I'm too smart for my own good, but I have the ambition of your garden variety slug. I've had opportunities galore here, but I've lacked the drive to do anything about them. I'll admit it, I'm lazy. *grin* But there ARE opportunities here for people with a Liberal Art degrees. Plenty of them.

If accounting is your thing, then great, go for it. Have a blast. If there is ANY doubt in your mind about following that path, then don't do it, would be my advice.

Know that times will be tough for a little while, but not forever. Trust me. There ARE more important things than money. Freedom is one. Some of the richest people I know are so chained into their jobs that they can't even go on vacation. Is that the life you want? Me, I'd rather be able to visit my family in Turkey. I'd rather be able to go away for a weekend in New York whenever I want. I'd rather be free. If that means that I don't own the overpriced condo, or the useless-on-a-21 square mile island BMW, so be it. I'm happy with my one-bedroom apartment and my shitty bike and tiny car.

Hell, be happy, that's what's important.

[silencedogood on 25.10.05 at 15:37]

1) Shouldn't the high schools be teaching alot of this? I know that I read some of the best literature in school before college. Kids should show up to higher education knowing who Harriet Beecher Stowe is or any number of other things or their degree is not worth much. You can't learn to think for yourself if you don't have a minimal background. Exactly why we should be focusing on improving our grade schools here.

2) Why is there this assumption that if IB doesn't fund your education you can't afford it? Go to Canada and get a cheap education on student loans which can be easily paid off using our tax free, higher value dollars. Or go to one of the many highly rated state schools in the US such as NYU, the UC system or the UT system. Is it really Ivy league or bust? Hardly. Granted you may still have a sizeable loan, but look at it as a mortgage on your future.

3) Why not double major? One practical, one liberal arts. Most universities have a core curriculum that all students have to meet. Adding another major might require a summer or two, or an extra year if you come back to work for the summer, but that's a small committment over the long term. Plus it makes you look like a hard worker with broad knowledge. Maybe with a dual degree one would have the money and the linguistic skill to turn a semi-naked grecian princess into a fully-naked one. :D

4) A liberal arts degree combined with professional designations, CPCU, ACII, AIC, ARe, etc. should be fine. Maybe you can't get a high powered job at a finance company, but insurance is not rocket science.

5) Lisa, you kill me. I work for IB, booga booga. I'm here to pillage and destroy the sweet and harmonious peoples of the world. While in transit in my Hummer I also plan to club a baby seal, destroy the habitat of every spotted owl I can find and eat a super-sized McDonalds value meal. I can imagine all the kids trick or treating this year in business suits. Help! It's international business!!!! (I would like to credit my liberal arts degree for aiding in the writing of this piece)

"Free thinking" does not always mean "in touch with reality." For the record. Insurance may be boring, but its the lubrication that allows commerce, particularly global commerce, to function.

[H Reardon on 25.10.05 at 17:58]

"Your duty now, is to make the world a better place. You cannot resist this; it is your compulsion, and your fault for being so bright.”

My intelligence does not belong to the world--it is mine and society has no claim upon it.

[H Reardon on 25.10.05 at 18:02]

Silencedogood--you are quickly becoming my favorite poster. Well said.

[Ethiops on 25.10.05 at 18:30]

Uncle Elvis - Bacteria. Viruses. Genetics. Environmental factors. THOSE are the root of sickness.

Wouldn't environmental factors be just another way to say stress, unless you mean Prozac in drinking water and things of that nature? Tell me did you know that sickness/bacteria cannot develop in a body that’s in an alkaline state? Also did you know that this state is 100% related to the foods we eat? In other words if the body doesn't have a high acid ash content which also comes from foods we eat, sickness cannot develop. Cancer is a great example of this. Ever hear of the cancer cure diet that actually works? I know even Bermudians that have had it and no longer have cancer worries. Omegas and a sulphur based protein aka flax-seed oil and cottage cheese, this simple combination is doing more than chemotherapy in combating cancer. Viruses however are another story. Ever hear of Dr Johanna Budwig. Her work is incredible, Nobel Prize nominee seven times even.

So Uncle I hold firm to the idea that bad eating habits and not following one’s passions are the roots of stress and sickness.

Nutrition is actually one of my passions. ;)

[Uncle Elvis on 25.10.05 at 20:19]

I'll let you have this. I think it's probably an "agree to disagree" type of thing. *grin*

[silencedogood on 26.10.05 at 11:21]

Silencedogood--you are quickly becoming my favorite poster. Well said.

Posted by H Reardon on 25.10.05 at 18:02

Thanks!

[J Galt on 26.10.05 at 17:10]

"There ARE more important things than money. Freedom is one."

You Sir, based on your previous posts don't have a clue as to what freedom is, or about.

"Me, I'd rather be able to visit my family in Turkey. I'd rather be able to go away for a weekend in New York whenever I want. "

Hmmm and how are you able to visit your family? or take your weekend trips that make you happy?I'd guess you use Money to make it happen.

[Uncle Elvis on 26.10.05 at 18:37]

Pardon?

I suppose I assumed people would understand that I know that SOME money is important. To think otherwise is ridiculous. I'm not advising that we all go homeless. Of course I'm not. Was that really so hard to understand?
However, I AM saying that money for the sake of money, money as your first priority, taking a job because it pays well and not because you enjoy it, is not the way to go.

Way to mis-read my posts.

So, if I don't understand what freedom is, or is about, please elucidate. Explain to me what I'm misunderstanding.
My reference to visiting family etc. was saying that I'd rather not be tied to a job that keeps me locked to a desk 24/7. I'd rather get paid less for a job that I enjoy, that gives me the freedom to do what I want to do, than make a tonne of cash and not have a life.

If accounting is what gets you moist, then, by all means, go for it. It doesn't do it for me.

[SmokingGun on 26.10.05 at 19:39]

And Uncle Elvis don't forget one thing. You can print money anywhere you go. A guitar and a tip jar will get you around the world. And laid to boot!!

[Tim Taylor on 26.10.05 at 22:13]

RE: Career choices.
True story. Knew a guy - majored in Business at Harvard. Good job. Wall Street. Career guy. Three divorces. Ex-Navy, kept his kit bag. Put all the books he didn't have time to read into it. When the bag became full, he would take whatever leave was due, come down to Bermuda, take a guest cottage by the water and try to read the books. Never got through more than half of them. Then back to the fight. He never understood why he had to die at age forty six of cancer.

Lesson: You can be driven and rich. You still have to die.

You can follow your heart, be poor and enjoy life, family and friends. You'll die too, but you won't mind as much.

[H Reardon on 27.10.05 at 09:30]

Tim,

Why would you assume your Harvard buddy didn't enjoy life? For some, the art of the deal is better than sex. And for the record, rich people live longer than poor people, not the other way around.

Galt,

I'm looking forward to you explaining to Elvis about money and freedom.

[Chris Broadhurst on 27.10.05 at 11:16]

Another true story:

My father in law work for 40 years in insurance and hated every single day of it. Retired Dec 31st at age 62. Sick by February, hospital by April, dead by May.

Follow your passion at all costs.

[automatic on 27.10.05 at 17:22]

It doesn't necessarily have to be a straight choice between following your passion or choosing a path that is going to benefit you in the business world, how about doing both at the same time?

I did an accounting degree, and now work as an accountant. That doesn't mean that accounting is my life. No, it's not my passion, and it doesn't "get me moist", but I've found I'm quite good at it (supposedly!), and it has taken me far.

I don't wake up every morning and do cartwheels with anticipation and excitement about going to work, but I'd guess that puts me in with about 98% of people. I certainly don't hate it either, I take it for what it is, a job that pays the bills.

My biggest passion in life is travel. I've been to many places and experienced many different things. My job, and the money it makes me, have enabled me to do this, have enabled me to follow my passion. It brought me to Bermuda for a start, an experience I would never otherwise have had.

Accountancy may not be the worlds most thrilling job, but it can take you to anywhere in the world you want to go. I'm about to take a few months off and go on an around the world trip, before moving on to another country to work. My qualifications and experience are enabling me to get a work permit in that country, and the world trip is going to be so much better with some savings to blow along the way.

The point is that as along as you don't allow yourself to get swamped by your work, or driven purely by greed, then following a business career doesn't have to be the end of your passions, it could just be the start.

Whatever you do, you should work to live, not the other way around !

[H Reardon on 28.10.05 at 10:07]

"Whatever you do, you should work to live, not the other way around !"

Posted by automatic on 27.10.05 at 17:22

For you, that makes sense. I'm just glad that there are people in the world that don't take your advice--they live to work. These are the men and women that have built the world--Edison, Pasteur, Curie, Gates, Franklin, Da Vinci. Without these type of men and women we would still be hunters and gatherers.

[silencedogood on 28.10.05 at 11:03]

Well said automatic.

[Simon on 28.10.05 at 11:35]

JJ, you are obviously an accountant with an inferiority complex!

Actuaries Rule!!