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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Some people believe the aim of university education is to help graduates get better jobs. Others believe there are much wider benefits of university education for both individuals and society. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

Some people believe the aim of university education is to help graduates get better jobs. Others believe there are much wider benefits of university education for both individuals and society.

Some believe that the main goal of university education is to assist students in securing better employment opportunities. However, there are those who argue that the benefits of higher education extend far beyond individual job prospects, positively impacting both the individual and society as a whole.

On the one hand, it is undeniable that a university degree can significantly enhance one's career prospects. Graduates often possess specialized knowledge and skills that are in demand in the job market, which can lead to higher-paying and more fulfilling employment opportunities. For example, a study conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics found that individuals with a bachelor's degree typically earn higher salaries and experience lower unemployment rates compared to those with only a high school diploma.

On the other hand, the benefits of university education are not limited to individual job attainment. Higher education can also contribute to personal development, critical thinking, and broadening of perspectives. University graduates are often better equipped to engage in informed debates, analyze complex issues, and make well-informed decisions. Moreover, universities serve as hubs for research and innovation, driving advancements in various fields and contributing to overall societal progress.

In conclusion, while securing better job opportunities is undoubtedly a significant aspect of university education, its wider benefits cannot be overlooked. The acquisition of knowledge, development of critical thinking skills, and the positive impact on society are equally important outcomes of higher education. Therefore, I believe that the aim of university education should encompass both individual and societal benefits, ultimately contributing to the overall betterment of society.

Model Essay #2:

Some people believe the aim of university education is to help graduates get better jobs. Others believe there are much wider benefits of university education for both individuals and society.

While it is true that many people view the primary purpose of university education as facilitating graduates in obtaining better employment, others argue that the scope of benefits associated with higher education extends beyond individual job placements, encompassing broader advantages for both individuals and society.

On one hand, the belief that university education primarily serves to enhance graduates' job prospects is supported by the evidence of higher earning potential and lower unemployment rates among degree holders. This perspective highlights the importance of specialized knowledge and skills acquired through higher education, which can lead to improved career opportunities and financial stability for individuals. For instance, a survey by the National Center for Education Statistics revealed that individuals with a bachelor's degree earned significantly higher median salaries than those with lower levels of educational attainment.

On the other hand, proponents of the broader benefits of university education emphasize the holistic development and societal impact associated with higher learning. Universities play a pivotal role in fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving abilities among students, equipping them with the skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to society. Furthermore, higher education institutions serve as centers for research and innovation, driving advancements in various fields and addressing societal challenges.

In conclusion, while the pursuit of improved job opportunities is an essential component of university education, its wider implications on personal growth and societal progress should not be disregarded. The multifaceted benefits of higher education, including the development of critical skills and its contribution to societal advancement, underscore the significance of its broader aims. Therefore, I maintain that the primary goal of university education should encompass both individual career advancement and the broader positive impacts on society as a whole.

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