You know that ‘Wow, what am I going to do with my life?’ feeling? Trust me, we’ve all been there…especially if you’re among those of us attending a liberal arts college. The pressure to choose your career path can be overwhelming–from teachers, parents, or maybe even grandparents. Maybe they’re expecting you to become some great lawyer or doctor, and you’re over here terrified because you don’t even know what you want! Here’s the good thing: it’s okay not to know! One day you could want to be pre-med but then the next, you might decide you want to go into Public Relations. Then, just when you think you know what you want, you might change your mind again. Just remember: this is what college is for. We are supposed to be finding out who we are, both academically and as human beings, and sometimes that takes time; not everyone knows right off the bat what they want to do with the rest of their lives. Choosing a major ultimately chooses your career path and that is a big life decision, so it is important to take the time to learn who you are and what you want in order to choose the right path that will make you happy. Here are my three biggest pieces of advice when it comes to dealing with the stress of choosing a college major:
1. Communicate
It might seem silly or maybe a waste of time, but attend career fairs! Get yourself out there and go to as many career events as you can (most schools offer them at least once or twice a year). Go even if you’re shy or don’t know what you want! There is always a possibility that you will encounter someone with similar passions as you who may be able to give you advice, or maybe you’ll be introduced to a career that you didn’t even know existed! It can never hurt to put yourself out there and network with others.
2. Diversify your education!
Take as wide of a variety of courses as you can! Take a subject you think will make you uncomfortable. For example, even if you have never been in a play or even read a dialogue, try an acting class. If you thought you wanted to be pre-med but now you’re unsure, throw yourself into an intro class for economics. You never know–maybe you’ll shockingly fall in love with one of these classes or you’ll love the professor and they can help you figure out the direction of your future.
3. Know what is at your disposal
Most colleges/universities offer more majors and minors than you probably knew about. Look at a catalogue of the majors and minors or go online and do some research. Chances are, you will find something that catches your eye. Write down anything that catches your interest as well as the professor/department head and maybe arrange to have a meeting with them. It’s very likely that if you approach a department leader about their subject and express your potential interest, they would be thrilled to sit down and give you as much information as you want. If you don’t know how to do this or are maybe too timid to do it, have a conversation with your advisor, as they will help you get your feet wet! Professors want to help you, they don’t want you to fail or feel discouraged.
As I said before, it is okay to change your mind! Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there if that’s what it takes to help you make an informed decision about your future (you’ll be happier in the end). And don’t forget, you are not alone. So many people are unsure about what they want to major in and about their life direction in general. All in all, always stay positive because it will all work out in the end.
(Photo: Scholar’s App)