Should I graduate early with a General Associate’s Degree or go for an Associate of Applied Business (AAB) while aiming for a career in Finance?
I’m in a position where I could graduate this semester with a general AA degree, but I also have the option to take summer and fall classes to earn my AAB. The challenge is that if I graduate this semester, I’ll still need to take the AAB classes at my transfer university instead of my current community college. Is there a significant advantage to one option over the other as I progress through my Bachelor’s degree? I’d love to secure a job that pays better than my current $18/hour.
Deciding whether to graduate sooner with a general AA or pursue an AAB (Associate of Applied Business) can be a tough choice, especially when you’re aiming for a career in finance. Here are some factors to consider that might help you make your decision:
Job Market Value: With a general AA, you may find job opportunities, but having an AAB can signal to employers that you have more specialized knowledge in business, which may increase your earning potential and job prospects, especially in finance.
Transferability: If you graduate with a general AA, you might still be able to transfer to a four-year university, but having completed an AAB could provide you with a more solid foundation in business concepts that might be essential in your bachelor’s program.
Time vs. Opportunity: Graduating sooner with a general AA may allow you to enter the job market quicker, which is crucial if you need to improve your financial situation. However, consider whether the job options available with just an AA would significantly improve your income compared to pursuing the AAB.
Networking and Resources: Staying in your current community college to pursue the AAB might offer you better networking opportunities, access to resources, and possibly some internships or job placement services that can be valuable once you enter the workforce or continue your education.
Long-Term Goals: Think about your long-term career goals in finance. If you are set on a specialization or something more advanced, having the AAB might better prepare you and give you a competitive edge.
Workload Consideration: Taking summer and fall classes will be more demanding, but if you feel confident in balancing this workload and believe it will benefit your future significantly, it might be worth it.
In summary, if you can afford to take the extra time for an AAB without impacting your financial situation too severely, the specialized knowledge and skills may serve you better in the long run. However, if your priority is immediate financial improvement, completing your AA and gaining experience in the workforce could be the better path for you right now. Consider your personal circumstances, career aspirations, and the specific job market in your area to make the best decision.