My journey to a master’s degree
About two years ago, I started a part-time master’s degree in Content Strategy at Austria-based university FH Joanneum. I didn’t really know what to expect, as I’d never pursued a degree while working. It had also been many years since my bachelor’s degree.
So in this article, I reflect upon my experience, including the ups, downs and everything in between.
It’s not easy
This is undoubtedly a cliche, but studying while working takes a lot of hard work and commitment. Even though this is a part-time programme, there are several evening classes and lots of projects and assignments to complete in a short period of time. What I noticed right away is that the programme moves at a very fast-pace. We would start a subject and complete it within a few weeks, including classes, assignments and often, presentations.
So this is definitely something to consider if you’re thinking of going down the study-while-working route.
We’re in this together
There is something truly remarkable in sharing an experience like this with fellow students. We all went through the pressures of working, then attending evening classes, then working on projects together and delivering the best work possible.
There were many moments when I felt like I just did not have the energy to keep going. But speaking to other students made me realise that I wasn’t alone and it often gave me the strength to continue.
There’s also an element of imposter syndrome that creeps up from time to time. I found myself wondering ‘Is my work good enough? Am I the only one facing difficulties with a particular subject?’ Then I quickly discovered that the experience presented some level of challenges to all of us. I wasn’t alone and I am truly grateful to my colleagues for their support.
I will always cherish the laughs we shared, the venting sessions and the many group projects we worked on.
The pandemic was a blessing and a curse
The class of COS20 started in October of 2020, several months into the covid-19 pandemic. This meant that the majority of our face-to-face classes had to be held online.
For many people, this might seem very tedious. And it was, at times. But it also meant that I was able to save on several vacation days (I would have had to travel to Austria far more often). And of course, I was able to save on the cost of travel.
However, for me, the biggest advantage of having pursued the majority of this degree during ‘lockdown’, was that I had a lot more time to actually study and complete my project work. I literally couldn’t do much else as everything was shut due to the pandemic! I see this as a silver lining of the pandemic and I joke with my friends that I was able to pursue a master’s degree while many people were stuck at home binge watching shows on Netflix!
It’s all been worth it
I have gained so much knowledge over the past two years, thanks to this programme. And because it is applied, I’ve been able to implement what I learned at work and I’ve grown so much as a UX Writer and Content Strategist.
I’m now in the fourth semester of the MA Content Strategy, and while I am really looking forward to finishing and gaining my degree, I can honestly say all the hard work has been worth it.
If you’re considering higher education but you’re reluctant because of the effort and time investment it requires, just go for it. It does get easier once you get into the rhythm of it and time really does fly. My only piece of advice is to pick a programme with a specific goal in mind. This could be a topic you’re passionate about or one that will enable you to progress in your career.
Interested in Content Strategy? I highly recommend the MA Content Strategy at FH Joanneum.
Also check out my colleagues’ perspectives on their experience:
A new mom and nearly a graduate student
Study and work? Why the double burden is worth it
A halfway recap — Reflecting on my master’s studies
What does staying motivated in times of lockdown really look like?
