At 6, I aspired to be a princess. At 10, I aspired to be an actress (thanks, Disney). At 16, it was an FBI agent (I think I watched too many crime shows). At 18, with my first year of college under my belt, I had absolutely no clue what I wanted to do. My freshman year in college I really struggled academically while adjusting to living away from home. I had no direction, and because of this, no motivation. It was a self-sabotaging cycle and I didn’t feel as though there was an end in sight. All along, I had a subconscious interest in healthcare, but I internalized it as I felt as though I would not be successful due to my freshman year grades.
Sophomore year rolled around and my friend mentioned I should look into Health Management and Policy. I immediately contacted the head of HMP, and she worked with me as my GPA was not suitable for entry into the major. With her support and goal setting, I made the Dean’s List both semesters. The classes interested me, and I spent almost too much time in the library. I was eager to boost my GPA and being in classes I enjoyed really helped me.
I am now officially in the HMP major and couldn’t be happier. I have reconsidered pursuing a role in the health field and am very interested in becoming a physician assistant. Freshman year doesn’t define who I am as a student.
If you have no clue what your passion or purpose is, it is completely ok. It is never too late to change paths. I believe our society needs to do a better job supporting and understanding people our age. As you grow, your passions and career ideas might be altered- this is normal. A majority of people don’t pursue the career idea they have had since they were ten. And if you believe it is almost impossible to attain your goals, it is never too late to try or turn things around. I would have never guessed that I’d be in this position today, but I wouldn’t want it any other way. Although the next few years will be challenging getting into PA school, I have finally found my drive and passion.