Trying to decide what you want to do for the rest of your life can be an extremely daunting task. If you do decide to go to college, selecting a major can be overwhelming. It is crazy to think of all the occupations and niches out there. If I could give one piece of advice to freshmen in college (or anyone trying to figure out their life path) it would be to soul-search. Once again, your profession will be something that you are going to do almost every day for a long time. It is important that you enjoy what you do. Yes, making money is an important thing; however, your happiness also plays a crucial part in your quality of life.

When I came in as a freshman, I really thought that I had my entire future planned. Then, classes progressed, I shadowed careers, I did research and I did some serious soul-searching. I discovered that I was working towards a path that wasn’t really suited for me. It is nearly impossible to be happy and maintain motivation when you feel that you’re working toward the wrong future. However, when I made the decision to change my major halfway through my first year, it changed everything. I finally had a goal that I felt confident in and it made total sense. I am so enthusiastic about my direction now. My classes are enthralling, I am excited for internship opportunities and I am really looking forward to my future.

So, if you are struggling to find that niche that you are really passionate about, just keep exploring your options with an open mind. If you make your decision early on in your academic career, it tends to make the transition process a little neater; it can also save money. Even if you are further along in your academic journey, though, there are still plenty of options to make a major change. Online courses, community college, summer classes, etc. can all be utilized. It is never too late to go back to school and obtain a degree. So, if you have the means and the time to work toward a different one after joining the workforce, that can be a viable option.

Moral of the story: find the major that makes you smile in your classes when you think about a future involving them. Regardless of your major, college is tough and you will be challenged; you just have to find the direction that you’re willing to fight for.