I often look at what has been my best investment as a student, and it is certainly subscriptions to educational platforms. As a student, deciding whether to invest in a premium subscription can be challenging, even though it offers multiple benefits. However, based on my personal experience, I can claim that the benefits often outweigh the costs.
I have subscribed to several platforms, including Audible, YouTube Premium (which includes YouTube Music), Blinkist, Microsoft 365, Canva and purchased paid content on Udemy and many others. These subscriptions have significantly enhanced my learning experience. I utilise travel time to listen to a wide range of educational audio content, such as audiobooks, interviews, podcasts, and lectures. This not only makes travel time productive but also enriches my knowledge base. In my free time, TV becomes a source to consume video content through those platforms.
Key Advantages
One of the primary advantages of premium subscriptions is the absence of advertisements, which ensures uninterrupted learning. Since internet ads are personalised primarily to your needs and tend to be highly distracting. Additionally, the ability to play content in the background when your phone is locked is a valuable feature, allowing multitasking without any disruptions. Further, the option to download and save content offline enables me to manage my content consumption effectively. Premium subscriptions often come with exclusive and early release features not available to free users.
Psychological Benefits
Another important aspect of premium subscriptions is the psychological impact of ownership. Investing in a subscription often creates an inherent motivation to maximise its use, leading to more time spent on the platform and more significant overall benefits. This sense of ownership makes for an engaged and proactive approach to learning. It can eventually lead to forming learning habits, thus promoting a disciplined approach to self-education.
Student’s Affordability
Student subscriptions are generally more affordable, making them an attractive option. For example, YouTube’s student subscription in India is priced at around Rs 79 per month, making it an ideal option. Most platforms offer discounted rates for students, which can be availed by providing a valid student ID card or using a student email ID. Websites like UNiDAYS can verify student status, ensuring access to these discounts. If you share a membership with your peers on platforms such as Microsoft 365 and Canva, which allow multiple users - you can further save money.
Notable Points
It is crucial to ensure that the subscription fits within your budget. While the benefits are numerous, assessing your financial position and prioritising spending on subscriptions that provide the most value for your educational and personal growth is essential. When considering a subscription, it is important to ensure that you are purchasing from a reputable source. Avoid online channels that offer subscriptions at suspiciously low prices, as they may compromise your privacy and data security. Lastly, I would recommend you to at least try a free trial on one platform and then decide if it’s worth it for you.
[The write is an assistant professor and former business journalist]
