Should I Drop Out of My Master’s and Leave the UK?

It sounds like you're in a tough spot, but here's what you need to consider before making a decision:

1. Evaluate Your Current Situation:

   • If your master’s program is at a non-target university and not aligned with your career goals (e.g., IB), it’s understandable why you feel stuck. However, dropping out without a clear plan could leave you in a worse position.
   • Consider whether you can leverage your current program to pivot into something more aligned with your goals, such as tech roles in finance or data analytics, which are growing fields.

2. Financial Implications:

   • Since your guardians control the funds, dropping out might create tension or limit your access to future financial support. Ensure you have a plan to fund your next steps if you leave the program.
   • If you’re spending £35k on a degree you don’t value, it’s worth discussing with your guardians whether reallocating those funds to something more career-aligned (e.g., certifications, networking, or another program) is possible.

3. Alternative Paths:

   • If you leave the UK, consider whether you can gain relevant work experience in your home country or another region. Work experience often outweighs a master’s degree in many industries, including finance.
   • Alternatively, you could explore short-term certifications (e.g., CFA, financial modeling courses) or internships to build your profile for IB or related fields.

4. Networking and Recruiting:

   • If you stay in the UK, focus on networking aggressively. Attend events, connect with alumni, and leverage LinkedIn to reach out to professionals in your target field.
   • Some banks and firms are open to hiring candidates with unconventional backgrounds if they demonstrate strong skills and determination.

5. Visa Considerations:

   • If you leave the UK, consider how this might impact your ability to return for work or study. The UK’s post-study work visa could be a valuable opportunity to gain experience if you complete your degree.

6. Mental Health and Personal Fulfillment:

   • Feeling stuck and unmotivated can take a toll on your mental health. If this degree is causing significant distress, it’s worth discussing your feelings with your guardians and exploring alternatives that align with your goals.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re certain this master’s won’t add value to your career and you have a clear alternative plan, leaving might be the right choice. However, ensure you’ve thought through the financial, visa, and career implications before making a decision. If possible, have an open conversation with your guardians to explain your perspective and propose a more strategic use of the funds.

Sources: Should I Slow Down?, International Student - Chance of getting an IBD internship in London?, JP Morgan Officially about to Cancel Summer Internships and Freeze Hiring, 3.9 GPA from an Ivy League school in a useless major. What are my options?