On the brink of starting my first year as a college student, I often look back and contemplate how I ended up where I am today. What were the decisions I made to choose the career path that I am now pursing? What are the activities I participated in to find the right major for me? And how can I use my experience to help others find the perfect fit for them?
In high school, there was never that ‘one’ college I was interested in, or that ‘one’ major that intrigued me most. I didn’t worry too much about my future the first two years of high school, but as soon as my junior year began, I become more worried. Every adult, teacher, peer, and practically anybody I came in contact with, asked me question after question, pertaining to my future aspirations (college).
“What schools are you interested in?”
“What majors are you considering?”
“Would you like to attend a community college or a University?”
“What career do you want to pursue?”
“What are you passionate about?”
One devious question after another, and it seemed to be never ending. The worst part being, I never had a clear answer, or at times I didn’t have an answer at all. The feeling of uncertainty was awful, and the feeling of self doubt was even worse. These feelings (and the thoughts that went with them) only created more stress, fear, and my lack of hope. But I didn’t let these things stop me. Luckily, I had people around me who noticed my strengths and weaknesses, and with their help I was able to recognize my own abilities, and I discovered what I am passionate about. Thus, directing me to the major and career path that I am now pursuing. My passions consist of: helping others, sharing my ideas, working with people, communicating important information, and being able to challenge myself. The career path that I found most fitting—although not my first choice—is teaching. From there, I was directed to a program at a nearby University that perfectly described the direction I was heading. Now, I am on the path to becoming a bilingual teacher, and I hope to be able to use my Spanish and English language abilities to achieve my life goals.
It took me my entire senior year to get where I am today, but I am beyond thankful for the experience that I have been given, the people that have helped me in the process, and the skills that I have gained throughout this school year. So what would I say to a student that is uncertain about where there next adventure lies?
- Don’t be fearful of the future. Don’t dwell on fear, but learn to be content knowing you may not always have an answer. No matter what lies ahead, focus on having a positive outlook.
- Get advice from those closest to you. No matter who falls into this category, the point being, to find people who have experience. People who can encourage you, and offer their resources. Also, in my experience, others have good judgment, and provide a different perspective on what they believe you can find success in.
- Utilize your schools resources. Whether that be the school counseling center, career center, counselors, teachers, and other faculty (both at your high school, and colleges you may be investigating). Find those who can direct you in the process, and can provide tools to help you find colleges, programs, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid. Faculty are there for a reason— to help you be successful!
- Self evaluate. Have you really sat down and just took some time to think? If you haven’t, then it’s time for some self evaluation. Ask yourself: What are my passions? How do I want to contribute to the world? What abilities do I have? By doing this, you might be able to gain more insight. Allowing you to create goals for yourself, and steps to achieve those goals.
- Get out and explore! Go on college visit, tours, overnight stays, take different career oriented classes at your high school, volunteer in your community, travel, learn a new trade, and find those passions!
A lot of people struggle with making decisions (especially if it effects their future), but it’s always important to remember to stay positive, focused, hopeful, and to remember that you are never alone. My hope is that you’d be able to use these tips, and my personal experience as a tool to help you find success.
For this reason, I urge you to use what you have been given, and build your future.
