Throughout my summer before entering my freshman year of college, I could lie and tell you that I was filled with excitement and ready to take on my first year by the horns; but that wasn’t the case. Don’t get me wrong, I was thrilled and ready to start a new chapter in my life; being able to meet incredible new people, join clubs or organizations I felt passionate about, or even just being able to have my own freedom.
However, we all know the spiel that our parents and past teachers have engraved into our minds; “The most important thing about college is receiving a higher education on your major that will benefit your occupation in the future.” Of course, I couldn’t agree more, that’s what college is all about, but one thing was missing for me—a major.
Yes, I decided to attend a four-year university without a major in mind; which is nothing to be ashamed of. How realistic is it to be eighteen and certain on what you want to do with your life? Answer; it’s not whatsoever, and I should have put that into perspective. Instead, I would constantly panic and build up stress, because I felt like I was the only one who didn’t have a clue in the world of what they wanted to do nor did I have some type of plan. However, I am here to tell you that it’s okay to be undecided; and I mean completely clueless of what it is that interests you or what you see yourself doing in five years because you’ll eventually find your way.
I know, I’m starting to sound like the annoying family member or friend that says, “Don’t worry you have plenty of time to figure it out,” but half of that is true. Personally, I don’t believe the college life gives you enough time to figure out what exactly you want to do with your life and how to ensure your happiness for the future, but there is no need to exert extra energy on worrying about the unknown. Instead; be active.
Your major isn’t just going to pop up one day and magically reveal itself; trust me, I wish it was that easy. You need to get inspired which is easier said than done when you’re in the mists of everything new going on around you.
Join an Organization. Whether that be Greek life, or simply an organization that allows you to open up and participate in different experiences; making you a more well-rounded person. Not only will this set you up to take on many roles and go to different events, but it also allows you to meet even more people. The more people you meet, the more majors that you’ll become familiar with, which could be potentially something you end up loving!
Focus on what you're good at, but also make sure you enjoy it. With that being said, you may be amazing at math, but if you can’t stand solving any equations why on earth would you want to do that for the rest of your life? Instead, find a happy medium and execute.
I know it takes a lot of motivation to schedule an appointment with your academic counselor, however, you’ll leave the meeting feeling somewhat in control with your future classes and where you may want to steer your academic career. They’ll help you find the classes that best fit your interests!
Having a major is always viewed as a requirement when you start college, but I’m one of the many who is currently defying the social norm. There is no need to feel inferior because you’re taking more time on figuring out who you are as a person and what it is exactly that you enjoy doing, that’s life! Remember, “Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire,” [unknown]. Find the path that you want to lead your life, no need to worry about how long it takes to get there!
