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The best way to succeed in life is to get a university education, while other..(Band 9 Sample Essay)

Updated: Jun 27

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.


Write about the following topic:


Some people think that the best way to succeed in life is to get a university education, while others disagree and say that it is no longer true nowadays.

Discuss both views and give your own opinions.


Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experiences.


You should write at least 250 words.


Task 2 Band 9 Sample Essay (Some people think that the best way to succeed in life is to get a university education, while others disagree and say that it is no longer true nowadays.)

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Sample Essay 1

In the contemporary era, a division exists between those advocating for traditional university education as the cornerstone of success and skeptics who argue its diminishing relevance. This essay contends that while higher education remains beneficial, the pathways to success have diversified, underscoring the importance of practical experience and alternative learning platforms.


Proponents of university education underscore its multifaceted advantages. Universities not only furnish individuals with advanced knowledge and specialized skills but also foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. For instance, a degree in computer science not only teaches coding but also develops logical reasoning, which is indispensable in technology-driven sectors. Furthermore, universities are hubs for networking, offering students opportunities to connect with professionals, mentors, and peers who can be instrumental in their future careers. This blend of intellectual rigor and social interaction, proponents argue, lays a robust foundation for a successful career.


Conversely, critics of this viewpoint highlight the evolving job market, where practical skills and experience often outweigh academic credentials. The digital age has ushered in an era of self-taught experts and entrepreneurs who thrive without formal university education. Platforms like Coursera and Udemy provide access to quality education, enabling learners to acquire job-ready skills at a fraction of the cost and time. Success stories of self-made millionaires and innovators who eschewed traditional education paths lend credence to this perspective, suggesting that determination, practical skills, and continuous learning are equally, if not more, significant than a degree.


In conclusion, while the value of a university education cannot be dismissed outright, it is clear that the definition of success in the modern world is no longer monolithic. Success is increasingly defined by one's ability to adapt, learn, and apply knowledge in practical settings. As such, individuals must consider their personal goals, industry demands, and learning preferences when charting their paths to success. This nuanced understanding acknowledges the merits of traditional education while embracing the potential of alternative routes.


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Sample Essay 2

In the contemporary era, the pathway to success is a subject of intense debate. On one hand, there is a school of thought that champions the pivotal role of university education as the cornerstone of prosperity. Conversely, a growing consensus suggests that in today’s rapidly evolving world, alternative routes can be equally, if not more, effective. This essay will explore both perspectives and argue that success is increasingly defined by a blend of education and practical experience.


Advocates for higher education assert that universities provide not just a deep reservoir of knowledge but also a platform for critical thinking and networking. These institutions are seen as incubators for innovation, where future leaders are molded. For instance, many of the world's most influential figures and pioneers in technology and business are the alumni of prestigious universities, underscoring the argument that these institutions are a conduit for success. This perspective hinges on the belief that the rigors of academic pursuit equip individuals with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern world.


Contrastingly, critics of this traditional path highlight the meteoric rise of self-taught entrepreneurs and innovators who have eschewed formal education in favor of hands-on experience and self-directed learning. In this digital age, access to information and learning resources is unprecedented, enabling keen learners to acquire skills and knowledge on their own terms. Success stories of individuals who have built tech empires from their garages or online platforms from their bedrooms serve as testament to the viability of alternative pathways. This viewpoint posits that agility, adaptability, and real-world experience are increasingly becoming the hallmarks of success.


In conclusion, while the value of a university education remains undisputed in certain circles, it is evident that the landscape of success is undergoing a transformation. The dichotomy between formal education and alternative routes is becoming less pronounced, as the merits of both approaches are recognized. In my opinion, the essence of success in the contemporary world lies in a fusion of academic knowledge and practical experience, enabling individuals to harness the best of both realms.


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Sample Essay 3

It is argued that having a university certificate is the most effective way to gain a successful life, whereas others think this statement is not valid in recent time. Though a university education comes up with the incredible opportunity to experience the diversity, in my opinion, the current manufacture-oriented industries are more attracted to the fact-based skilled people, regardless of their university certificates, contributing to the people’s success in life.


Studying in a university broadens a student’s worldviews, introduces them with the people from diverse backgrounds, and offers an incredible independence that let them grow as matured individuals. In the university environment, students are exposed to various races and religions, different language, and cultures; they can make friendship with multinational and multilingual people. This unique opportunity gives them nonparallel life experience that deepens their foundation not only as a student, but also as a global citizen. Thus, adolescents can become more openminded by studying at a university which eventually help them discover the success of life.


On the other hand, labour intensive industries are swarming as the overall global population is rising exponentially, which is exploited mostly by the manufacturing businesses. Farms in this type of industry produce in economy of scale and they always look for expanding their volume of production to minimize the marginal production cost. These phenomena push them to hire only the workers who have the specific skills that the company needs in the specific production field. These employers do not necessarily need to see where the worker studied or what is his/her education level. Thus, as the time passes by, the trend “bring skills first, others are optional” is becoming more of an employment norm, and the future will definitely see it more as the global businesses are constantly setting the goal of more and more production.


To conclude, although people can nourish themselves harnessing the dynamic opportunities during their university studies, when it comes to the global manufacturing chain, having a solid practical skill is regarded more vital than a certificate as it provides hands-on experiences to contribute to their respective fields, and eventually thus they are more likely to succeed in their life.


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