UQ0777

What should I do if my parents care more about reputation than I do?

Rather than dismissing reputation, ask why your parents value it, then compare it with what matters to you, such as the subjects you want to study, commuting, costs, support, and possible post-graduation paths. Check official information for each university and faculty, discuss priorities and budget, and aim for a choice you can both understand and accept.

Key points

  • First ask what concerns—such as employment prospects or reassurance—make reputation important to your parents.
  • Compare the curriculum, field of study, commuting, costs, support, and career information concretely.
  • If you cannot reach agreement, consider discussing the choice with a teacher or career counselor as a neutral third party.

Things to check

  • Policies, support, and career information can differ by university, faculty, and academic year, so check current official information.
  • Name recognition or reputation alone does not guarantee a good personal fit or a particular outcome after graduation.