Going into this summer, I had so many expectations on how this summer was going to be the answer of what I want to do with my life after college. Well, it definitely did that, but not in the way I expected it to.
There is one thing I am sure of, and that is that I have no idea what I want, and that I shouldn’t make any impulsive decisions during this time. I went into this summer so sure of what I wanted to do, and what I believed was my passion, it was overwhelming discovering maybe it wasn’t for me. But that is not a bad thing. I can’t express my excitement for discovering new passions and hobbies that I can actually see myself doing for the rest of my life. And even if they are the complete opposite of I what I thought I wanted, it is extremely reassuring knowing that it is completely normal to switch around.
I always wished I would discover my passion during my freshman year at college, and I made sure I took classes in every department to made sure I got to experience the liberal arts spectrum, but also to explore my opportunities. During my sophomore year, I still had some doubts, but I began researching and fell in love with an idea that simply sounded nice, but I didn’t really have much knowledge about. Then came my junior year, where I shifted all my focus to this one aspect I really wanted to pursue.
This summer I went all in, my mind focused only on this one thing that I was so sure I wanted. Now that the summer has come to an end, I can say I had a great experience with my internships, I learned a lot about the field, and I did like the aspect of it, but my passions changed drastically and now, as I stare at my class schedule for senior year, I can’t help to consider taking some 101 courses so I can for sure explore ALL my options.
And the best part, I’m not even mad. I’m sure I’ll be stressed when people ask “What are your plans after graduation”, but all I can say is that I have no freaking idea. I know I have one year left to maximize my studies and get a chance to explore some areas I never thought I would have an interest in. In a way, I feel like a freshman again, with all this desire to learn about brand new topics that a couple years ago I would never consider. I am excited for senior year now, because I now have a better understanding of what not knowing what to expect feels like, and I actually feel comfortable with it.
And I know for sure I am not alone. All I can say is that I am excited to challenge myself and learn more about myself.
