Though many college students struggle with what they want to do with their lives, I knew what I wanted since I was 11 years old. Or so I thought. I wanted to be a nurse. I wanted to attend UNG - after all, the nursing program is what they are known for. I was sure I would never change my mind. I had a plan, and I am one to make plans and stick to them.
I had no idea I would get into politics. I actually remember being slightly irritated when I found out I would have to take American History and Global Issues classes as part of my core. I did not hate it. I have always liked history and political science pretty well; I just was not passionate about them and wanted to move on to subjects I would actually use. I did not expect to become so invested while learning about the history of America and its government, or while reading about current events. I went from almost never reading news to reading four major news sources a day. I had strong opinions and I loved writing about them. I enjoyed debating. Last school year, I realized politics is something I am actually passionate about.
So that begged the question: what was I still doing as a pre-nursing major? That did not seem to be where my heart truly lay. I kind of wanted to do something political. I considered journalism. I wanted to report on major events and expose unpleasant truths and show people how truly messed up the government truly is. It made perfect sense - I have always loved writing and I have done it with enthusiasm ever since I knew how. Maybe political journalism was my true calling. Perhaps I needed to change paths. It shouldn't have been difficult.
But it was difficult. Change is scary. And I had had a plan for seven years - I could not change that. I wrestled with the idea of switching majors. I worried about making the wrong decision. What if, once I changed majors, I decided I actually wanted to be a nurse after all? I kind of wanted someone else to make the choice for me, but I knew it was my choice to make and I needed to step up and be an adult about it. So after months of worrying, I sent in a major change request form. I have not regretted it since.
I know that many students are still where I was a few months ago. They have choices to make and are afraid of choosing the wrong one. Realize that, though uncertainty and change are scary, it will be worth it in the end.
