Before the corporate rat race, there’s the paper chase. In all sense of the phrase, it is the pursuit of paper qualifications, with the end-goal typically being a university degree. Though not always a good yardstick to go by, the degree gives employers some measure of one’s potential abilities.

But in my opinion, a degree isn’t as valuable today as it was in the past because in this day and age, every other person is a degree holder. At best, it helps one get past the initial screening for job applications. And even then, the degree rarely matters once through this stage as interviews assess for job and personality fit.

Some opine having a good degree gives one a better starting salary. While true and perhaps even advantageous, it honestly isn’t worth being a slave to grades for a higher starting pay. The difference would eventually be made up for if one works hard.

A degree helps one to climb higher up the corporate ladder; without paper qualifications, non-degree holders are met with a glass ceiling in terms of career progression. Paper qualifications, though, must not the be-all and end-all. In my view, work performance and aptitude should have overriding priorities.

But in all honesty, a degree is still important. After all, this paper-centric society places much value on it. However, I feel that a strong portfolio of relevant working experience will stand one in better stead than impressive academic results alone. Of course, having both would be ideal.

So, my advice for those who are still in school is not to let yourself get too caught up in the chase and lose sight of your goals. Work hard, work smart but also go out and gain the necessary experience.