JAM topic · Advanced
Is Higher Education Always Necessary?
Share your perspective on whether a university degree is still required to achieve financial and professional success.
How to structure your minute
- 1
Start
state your position on higher education
- 2
Middle
contrast university degrees with practical skills
- 3
End
conclude with advice for career path
Sample answer
about 116 words · 1 minuteI strongly believe that a university degree is no longer the sole pathway to professional success in today's economy. While higher education remains essential for specialized fields like medicine and law, many modern industries now prioritize practical skills, adaptability, and portfolio work over academic credentials. The rise of self-taught technology skills, digital entrepreneurship, and vocational training has proven that motivated individuals can build lucrative careers without incurring massive student debt. Furthermore, four years of university often focus heavily on theoretical knowledge rather than real-world application. As the global job market evolves rapidly, hands-on experience, continuous self-education, and strong communication skills are becoming far more valuable than traditional degrees. Success now depends on ability rather than diplomas.
Use it for ideas. Say it your own way.
Useful phrases
sole pathway to...
A college degree is not the sole pathway to success.
prioritize practical skills...
Modern employers prioritize practical skills over theoretical knowledge.
incurring massive student debt
Students often worry about incurring massive student debt.
hands-on experience...
Gaining hands-on experience helps young workers adapt faster.
Common mistakes
Go to university is compulsory.
Going to university is compulsory.
Use gerund 'going' when a verb functions as the subject.
degree gives guaranteed job.
A degree gives a guaranteed job.
Countable singular nouns like 'degree' require an article.
Tips for this topic
- Use strong contrast transitions like 'while higher education remains...' to balance your point.
- Focus on clarity and logical flow rather than speaking too fast.
Now say it yourself
Speak on “Is Higher Education Always Necessary?” for one minute. You get what went well and the one thing to fix.