E-cigarettes have become a popular topic in the smoking landscape, with debates on their safety and efficacy, especially in comparison to traditional cigarettes. While the prevalence of smoking has decreased significantly in recent decades, cigarette-related issues still contribute to a substantial number of deaths in the United States.
These electronic devices, powered by batteries, produce vapor by heating a liquid that users inhale and exhale—a process commonly known as "vaping." Initially marketed towards the younger demographic, recent advertising campaigns highlight middle-aged, long-time smokers who have transitioned to vaping. The critical question remains: Is vaping a safer alternative, particularly from a cardiovascular standpoint, and can it aid in quitting conventional cigarettes?
Currently, experts offer a tentative "maybe" to both questions. While some acknowledge potential benefits, concerns linger, especially regarding the rising trend of teenage vaping. A CDC survey revealed a significant 78% increase in high school students reporting monthly vaping, reaching 20% in the past year. This troubling statistic underscores worries about a predatory industry enticing young individuals with highly addictive products, as pointed out by Dr. Vaughan Rees, director of the Center for Global Tobacco Control at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
As I was crossing the road to enter the graduation hall, I spotted the first person with a graduation gown, and I felt anxious in a good way. I called my friend to come pick me up from the front of the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall so I could take some photos of him before the graduation ceremony started.
I took lots of lovely photos, and he was pleased with them. We entered inside, showed a pass to the security guide, and I found my way to my seat with the guidance of my friend, who was graduating.
It was such a beautiful sight; they all walked out, holding their certificates and diplomas like they were the keys to a whole new world. I sat there, soaking it all in and enjoying every bit of the ceremony. People were buzzing with excitement. I could hear the laughter and cheers of invited friends and family, and everyone was eager to capture the perfect moment on video. The energy skyrocketed when names were called—screams, cheers, and the sweet chaos of celebration filled the air. It was a genuine outpouring of pride and happiness for each graduate.
After the graduation, we headed to the university building. Lots of students continued taking photos while the social media team of the university was trying to gather students for photos that would be used on the university website.
Having taken some photos of my dress, I entered the library area to warm myself up because it was a very cold day. At that moment, I found myself pondering:
1. How many of these students genuinely require this degree?
2. Will they make practical use of the knowledge gained?
3. Could the funds spent on tuition have been invested in more innovative pursuits?
4. Are some of these students on a celebratory path that might not align with their true destinies?
5. How many of these students would never use this certificate?
6. How many of these students does the UK actually provide job opportunities for?
I kept thinking about these questions as I watched students come and go in the library area.
The UK takes in lots of students each year for educational purposes, and lots of them leave their jobs and high-ranking positions with the mindset of getting a decent job after studying in the UK, but for most foreign students, this is far from reality.
Why would the UK admit students into master's programmes only to find them often starting at the lowest job levels in the real world? If they meet the qualifications for a master's degree, shouldn't the knowledge imparted enable them to attain roles at a corresponding level?
To what extent have these foreign students truly achieved success? This was the question that kept coming to mind as I looked at all of them dressed in their beautiful outfits.
I read an article before sharing this post, which states that international graduates encounter a significant challenge in securing graduate-level employment in the UK. Currently, only 7% of all international graduates succeed.
If the UK stands by the quality of education it imparts to foreign students, why the struggle for these graduates to secure well-paying jobs? It's more straightforward for a UK citizen with a bachelor's degree to secure employment than it is for a foreigner armed with a PhD. This stark reality demands scrutiny and explanation.
How much have these foreign students accomplished?