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The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at SBU chapter.

As a high school student, I seemed to find my love for computer science. The allure of coding, algorithms, and tech innovation captured my imagination and fueled my ambitions. Fast forward to today, and my career aspirations have taken an unexpected yet profoundly fulfilling turn towards psychology. This transformation from a tech nerd to a psychology enthusiast is a testament to the evolving nature of dreams and passions.

In high school, my vision for the future was clear and ambitious: I wanted to dive deep into the world of computer science. The field’s promise of solving complex problems, creating groundbreaking technologies, and shaping the digital landscape was irresistibly appealing. I immersed myself in programming classes, and spent countless hours developing software projects for those classes.  

The excitement of seeing lines of code come to life and the intellectual challenge of troubleshooting intricate problems were exhilarating. I envisioned a career where I would contribute to technological advancements, possibly working for a major tech company or starting my own tech venture.

As I progressed through college and gained exposure to various fields, my interests began to evolve. Don’t get me wrong I still love to code. But it was during a period of exploration as well as frustration that I encountered psychology—a field that intrigued me in ways I hadn’t anticipated. The human mind’s complexity, the nuances of behavior, and the potential to make a meaningful impact on individuals’ lives through understanding and intervention captured my attention.

A course in psychology over the summer term, coupled with personal experiences and introspection, led me to appreciate the profound impact that mental health and human behavior have on our lives. The realization that understanding and addressing psychological well-being could affect real change in individuals and communities resonated deeply with me. 

Shifting from computer science to psychology was not a decision I took lightly. It involved a considerable amount of self-reflection and a willingness to embrace a new path. 

Today, my starting position in the world of psychology offers a sense of fulfillment and purpose that aligns with my passion for understanding the human mind and helping others. Whether it’s through counseling, research, or community outreach, the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives brings immense satisfaction.

The journey from computer science to psychology highlights the dynamic nature of career aspirations and personal growth. It underscores the importance of staying open to new possibilities and being willing to adapt as our interests and experiences evolve.

Embracing change and remaining open to exploring new interests can lead to discovering a path that is not only fulfilling but also aligns more closely with your evolving passions and values. As I continue to advance in psychology, I am reminded of the importance of being adaptable and pursuing a career that resonates with both my skills and my heart.

It’s a journey marked by exploration, adaptation, and the pursuit of passion. While the path may have diverged from my initial vision, it has led me to a place of profound satisfaction and impact. Embracing the evolution of dreams and careers is a vital part of personal and professional development, and it ultimately helps us create a life that is both meaningful and aligned with our deepest passions.

Paityn Billard is a Second- year member of the Her Campus at the SBU chapter. She plans on writing about literature, psychology of women, and anything else that comes to mind. Paityn is a currently a sophomore student studying Psychology. Aside from Her Campus Paityn is involved with the SBU Bowling Club and likes to spend her time at Mt. Irenaeus. She is heavily involved with her county's politics, such as campaign managing, and working for Oneida County Workforce Development. In her free time, Paityn enjoys reading, being outdoors, bowling, as well as hanging out with her family and pets at home.