It’s a bit ridiculous for society to expect us to make the biggest decision of our lives, which is choosing what we want to do in college, as soon as we’re fresh out of high school. You’re going to be stuck with something you plan on doing for the rest of your life, so it has to be made wisely. It’s a scary decision, and we’ve all been there, so there’s no need to feel pressured under any circumstances because it’s OK to want to think carefully before you make your choice. Don’t let your fear take you over completely because it’s only going to confuse you and terrify you for the moments to come. Just know that it’s completely normal! This article is for any body who’s entering college and for those who are in college but are stuck as to what to do. Don’t worry, ladies, we’ve got your backs!
If you do feel like this, just know that there are other students who are in the same boat as you. You don’t have to feel lost or freaked out because it’s natural to not know what you’re passionate about. It takes a lot of time and wandering to figure out where your passion lies. But when it’s discovered, you’re going to be so glad that you took your time and didn’t make a hasty decision, which you might have regretted in the future. Think of it this way, you get to explore so many different ideas and that makes it fun! Doesn’t matter if you’re thinking about this just before college or while you’re at college. Thinking carefully always helps!
Experience is always useful. If you’re not sure which type of area to head into in your field, scoping around gives you the opportunity to discover what you enjoy and what you don’t. Try different areas of your field. You might surprise yourself and like something that you weren’t expecting to before. As a journalism student, I currently have no idea what area I will end up working in. But when I do explore my options and focus on each one, I’ll be able to identify where my strengths and weaknesses lie. With experience, you’ll identify what you’d like to do in the long run. Also, if you’re unsure about which major to choose, take classes you’re interested in to explore out your choices. You’re bound to love something and by doing this, you’re exposing yourself to different aspects of different fields. There’s a whole sea of fish out there! Keep learning and keep exploring.
Some people discourage the idea of taking time off before, during or after college because it can be considered a ‘waste of time.’ However, if it’s necessary, it should be encouraged. Don’t feel scared to take time off. You take time to explore your passions and interests rather than wasting your time and money on something that you might not be so keen on doing in the future. If taking several classes is not the way to help you find your calling, that’s perfectly OK because everyone handles situations differently. It will take some time to find what you love to do, but it will be so worth it in the end. Just be sure of one thing: make your gap period productive!
You never know where you might find your calling. It could be during class or even during a nice and long summer holiday. Don’t feel pressured by anyone because it’s you who’s going to live with your decision. It affects you and only you, so make sure you do something you’re truly passionate about. Don’t worry and enjoy exploring different areas until you find the right one. You might be surprised as to what you end up finding. You’ve totally got this!