Stages

Should I Be a Generalist or a Specialist?

IntermediateMe & Daily Life

Generalist or Specialist?

A question about my future

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Model script

Hi, everyone. I'm in my last year of university, and I keep asking myself one question: should I become a generalist who knows a little about many things, or a specialist who knows a lot about one thing? Today, I'll think it through with you.

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Useful phrases

  • I keep asking myself

    I ask myself again and again.

  • think it through

    Think about something carefully from start to finish.

Full script

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  1. 01Generalist or Specialist?

    Hi, everyone. I'm in my last year of university, and I keep asking myself one question: should I become a generalist who knows a little about many things, or a specialist who knows a lot about one thing? Today, I'll think it through with you.

  2. 02What's the Difference?

    A generalist has many different skills, like a person who can design, write, and manage projects. A specialist goes deep into one area, like a heart doctor or a tax expert.

  3. 03Being a Generalist

    On one hand, generalists are flexible. If one job disappears, they can move to another. They also see the big picture, so they're good at connecting people and ideas.

  4. 04Being a Specialist

    On the other hand, specialists are hard to replace. When a difficult problem comes up, people look for an expert, and experts are often paid well for their knowledge.

  5. 05Side by Side

    When I compare them, the choice looks like wide versus deep. Both paths have real strengths and real risks.

  6. 06My Choice: T-Shaped

    My choice is to become what some people call "T-shaped." I want one deep skill, data analysis, and a basic understanding of many other areas, like design and business.

  7. 07Conclusion

    In conclusion, I don't think we have to choose only one path. Go deep in one thing, but stay curious about many. What about you? Thank you.

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