I can't begin to tell you how often I am asked the question, "So what do you want to do after college?" or "What are you planning to do with your major?" And my response is usually a variation of, "I'm actually not sure," or "I'm still figuring that out."
My answer is often followed with an awkward and short response, or someone trying to make me feel better about the fact that I don't quite have my life figured out. At this point, I start feeling embarrassed and I feel the need to validate my answer and explain myself.
I know I'm not the only one feeling this way. One of my best friends is in the same boat. We are juniors in college, both have our majors decided, but we both aren't sure what career path we want to take.
And this is okay. Your major choice does not define you or what career you will choose after college.
A family member graduated from college with a degree in communications, now she is an accountant. One of my friend's mothers graduated with a degree in engineering. She put her career on hold when she had children and now works at a bookstore. My uncle graduated with a journalism degree and he runs a clothing store.
Do you see my point? Your major is not permanent and will not decide what your future job will be. Your options and opportunities are endless. This should be an exciting feeling, not scary or embarrassing.
Just because you don't have your future plans completely figured out and set in stone, doesn't make you a failure or irresponsible. You're keeping your options open and by doing so, you can learn about yourself, what you like and don't like.
Get an internship doing something you may be interested in. This is a great way to learn what kind of career you'd work well in. If you don't like it, you've just narrowed down your list. Talk to family and friends, learn about their careers, and see what you'd enjoy doing.
Take this time in your life to just enjoy where you are now. Whether you are an undecided freshman who has no idea what to major in, or a college junior like me, not sure of what life is going to look like after college.
College is the time in your life to explore and create new experiences for yourself. Gain knowledge that you will use after college. Soak up these experiences that will help shape you as an individual, and build your characteristics, which will later lead you to a career.
So, next time someone makes you feel ashamed for not having a perfect career lined up after college, remind yourself that things take time. Acknowledge that it's okay to still figure things out. Life and a career is a journey, not a destination.
