why did I choose polytechnic?

When it comes to choosing between polytechnic and JC, it really depends on the kind of experience you're looking for. Both paths come with their own challenges and rewards, and neither is necessarily better—it’s about what suits you personally🍀

When I was 16, I remember being about 70% sure that I wanted to go to polytechnic. However, most of my secondary school teachers were pushing for JC, saying I could excel there.

So, what made me decide what was right for me?

1️⃣Learning style

For me, polytechnic has been about gaining hands-on experience and practical skills that I can see myself using in the real world. From day one, you get to dive into projects, work with industry tools, and see how the concepts you’re learning actually apply in the field. It’s more about preparing you for the working world while also giving you the option to go to university if that’s your goal. There’s something rewarding about creating something tangible and gaining certifications that can make you job-ready even before graduating.

JC, on the other hand, feels more focused on academic rigor and preparing students for university. It’s a faster-paced, exam-driven environment where a lot of focus is on theory and content mastery. JC is a good fit if you’re looking for a traditional academic pathway straight into university, especially if you're someone who enjoys academic subjects like sciences or humanities at a deeper level.

2️⃣Grading System

I’m not sure what JC students go through, but in polytechnic, every semester is important because all six semesters contribute to your final GPA. It can feel pretty stressful at times since every grade counts, and there's no 'catch-up' period like with A-Levels. However, I’m okay with this system because it makes life more meaningful. We don’t slack off too much and are constantly motivated to aim for better results each semester.

3️⃣Study Schedule

I find that polytechnic offers a much more flexible schedule compared to JC. In poly, we often have the freedom to choose the timing of some of our modules, which allows us to better plan our week around our personal preferences and commitments. Whether it’s to fit in part-time work, extra-curricular activities, or simply more time for self-study, this flexibility really helps us manage our time more effectively.

In contrast, JC follows a more traditional, structured timetable that feels similar to secondary school—fixed classes every day, starting early in the morning and continuing until the afternoon. There’s less room for personal adjustment, so your schedule is pretty much set for you. This makes poly feel more like a stepping stone to university life, where you also get to choose your classes and timetable.

Ultimately, the choice between polytechnic and JC comes down to your personal goals and learning preferences. It’s important to choose a path that suits your strengths, interests, and future aspirations. No matter which option you go with, both routes can lead to success if you stay focused and work hard. My advice is to trust yourself, think about what kind of experience will help you grow, and make the most of whichever path you choose!✨

If you have any other questions, feel free to drop them in the comments and I'll do my best to help!

#Lemon8SG #study #school #poly #jc #olevelexamination #student #studentlife #studentadvice