Some high school students know exactly what they want to study in college. They might have a passion for music, art, science or history and feel they should continue their studies in that particular field. However, once they get to college and enroll in their desired major, they often find that the passion they once loved so much is now a dreaded nightmare full of complicated terms, hidden subjects and demanding courses that are difficult to comprehend.
In trying to decide a major, students frequently jump right into a field out of high school. I did. Although this works for some students, it is not always the smartest thing to do.
Most people, no matter how sure they feel, don’t know exactly what they want to do in their young adult years and future lives, nor do they fully comprehend the long-term results of their choices. They have interests and hobbies, but no set idea of how to succeed in the adult world, especially in a way that makes them happiest. It is important for students to know what they want to do with as much certainty as possible before declaring a major. Otherwise, they’ll find themselves spending expensive tuition money on a field they won’t stick with later on.
Here are a few tips that can help determine if the major you’re considering is the right course for you.
1) Take Generals Your First Semester
It’s quite a big jump to go from a small classroom, living with your parents and barely any homework to a college campus with packed classes and difficult courses that will soon determine the job you’re stuck with for most of your life. General classes, such as math and art, are a great way to explore your interests during the first semester of college. They are broad and cover most major subjects. In addition, they are required credits for your undergraduate degree, so getting some of these classes out of the way while still exploring your passions will likely be in your best interest.
2) Talk to Professionals in your Desired Field
If you really want to know what your future might hold in your declared major, interview someone in that particular field. Get to know what they do — the path they took to get them where they are, the day-to-day work, even their yearly pay. The more detailed the questions you ask, the better you’ll understand their job. Seeing employees in a position you could wind up in yourself can help you understand whether the field of study is right for you.
3) Let Go of Your Childhood Dreams
It’s harsh but true. As adults, we need to remember that our childhood dream job might not be the same as our adult dream job. The reality of life is that money, success and future security are what most of us want and need. The dream jobs we hoped for as kids don’t always guarantee future success and stability. Now already I can hear people saying, “Money doesn’t lead to happiness.” To that, I agree only in part. We live in a capitalist world, and in order to buy food, a house, a car and other necessities for yourself and a future family, money is a necessity. College students need to face the fact that sacrifices must and should be made in order to secure what is needed, not solely what is wanted.
4) Don’t Wait Too Long
Explore your interests, and don’t rush into anything you’re not sure about. But don’t take forever to decide on a major, either. Time is precious at this stage in life. No one wants to spend more years in school than they need to, especially when more school means more tuition to pay and fewer years establishing a career. Katharine Brooks, director of liberal arts career services at the University of Texas, cautions college students to “keep an eye on the money … college is expensive and you don’t want to waste too much time.” Tuition is a costly bill that puts many students in debt. Explore your possibilities, but don’t explore forever.
5) Consider Career Options
Where would this degree allow you to go in the future? How many jobs are attainable through this major? How high in demand are the careers? These are just some of the questions you need to ask yourself when choosing a particular field. The point of a college education is to prepare you for the world and properly train you for a future career. If you graduate college with a degree that will only lead to a career low in demand, you’ll be less likely to get a decent job.
Choosing a degree in college is not always easy. It requires a lot of self-evaluation and personal thought. Your future is whatever you make it. Right now in college, you have the power to choose where to take your life. Have fun and be daring, but also be smart. The world is a tough place, and you must be ready for it. College can help in your preparation if you choose the correct path for your wants and needs. Your future is your choice and yours alone. Choose wisely.
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