What Causes Students to Drop Out of University

According to figures published by The Independent newspaper of UK published in 2007, there are more than 100,000 students that are likely to drop out of their chosen degree courses after finishing their first year. Students taking up Mathematics, Science and Engineering programmes are the most likely to drop out, while students studying Medicine are the least likely to drop out of their course and go on towards finishing their studies. Over-all, about a quarter of all students in the UK (the exact percentage is begged at 22.4 per cent) do not go on to graduate from their chosen courses. So what causes students to start university studies only to abandon it? Below are the most likely reasons:

·    Students forego school so they can start a career immediately. While there are notable college drop outs such as Bill Gates and Steve Jobs who made it big even without a university diploma, statistically this is more of the exception rather than the rule. For one, you are less likely to get a good position anywhere without strong qualifications, most notable of all are good university grades. This is especially important in the current economic climate where jobs are being fought over extensively and employers are asking more while being able to afford less. Besides, unless you have an exceptional knowledge in your subject area, how can you do your job effectively if you weren't properly trained by learned men such as professors and academics in a setting conducive to learning?
·    Students have insufficient funds to continue with their studies. Still an effect of the current global economic downturn, more students are being forced to drop out because they or their parents can ill afford to support their university education, which can be rather expensive especially now that Parliament has voted to triple the maximum tuition that universities can collect from students each year.

The Costs of a Social Life in a UK University

Experiencing university life will be more enjoyable and memorable for a student if it does not only involve discussions, research in libraries, and visiting laboratories or doing fieldwork. In most of UK university cities and towns, social life of students is given importance because they are offered special discounts for cinemas, theatres, nightclubs, bus or train travel, and purchase of books and other equipment that can be used for sports and leisure.

The university student unions will also cater for different sports and leisurely activities at a fraction of the cost being asked by commercial providers. In fact, university is good time and a good excuse for pursuing the most esoteric of interests at a price that is easily affordable. However, expenses relating to social activities, whether it be hiring a launderette, going to a cinema or nightclub, and occasionally drinking or eating out will still eat out a significant portion of a student's allowance, depending on the kind of lifestyle he or she leads and the frequency of pursuing social activities.

Mobile phone bills can also be another cost issue, especially if the student is fond of ringing and sending text messages to overseas buddies, parents, relatives or a distant special someone. The students' union should well be able to provide advice on the best deals from among many communication network providers. There are many packages being offered by mobile phone companies, and the student should choose one that suits his or her budget, academic and social life needs.