In this article:
“What do you want to be when you grow up?”
A simple, yet complex question that almost all of us have heard at one point or another. For some, this question is a breeze, almost like knowing your last name. For others, it is a trigger for their flight or fight instinct. If you belong to the group of people that already know what they want to do for the rest of their lives then congratulations! If you ever had even the slightest sense of uncertainty about your career choice, major, degree, how to navigate college, and even what to do with your life once you graduate, then double congratulations! because this article is for you!
“What should I pack?” “Will people care about what brand my shoes are?” “I need to color my hair blue or I will not make any friends!”
Remember, take a deep breath and count to 10. Transitioning into college can be one of the scariest, yet most exciting times of one’s life! You will have this new independence you never felt before, but you will not know how to deal with said independence, and that is okay. You need to be patient and understand that everything will come at its rate.
Usually, when people come to college they look for all types of advice from friends, siblings, family, and the internet. You will hear all types of advice about joining clubs, making friends, making study groups, and so much more. However, it is essential to understand that although these tips are great, they might not give you the results that you want; and that is ok.
Keep an open mind to anything that comes your way, and if your interests match the opportunity, take it.
<aside> 🎒 Tip: When packing for college remember to pack light, as your style, hobbies, and wardrobe might change over time
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College is expensive. I know. From books to even going grocery shopping by yourself, college can be quite costly. How can one navigate all of this?
The financial aid office is a great place to figure out your finances. However, they might also not help you much, give you an appointment in three months for an issue that had to be fixed yesterday, or take away a scholarship instead of giving it to you. It is one office with thousands of students, so your best source is the dean of your department, professors from your degree of choice, or even upperclassmen who would be willing to help you organize your finances or send you to the people who can help.
The same advice goes to Majors and Minors. People who went through the degree you are going through might know more than the advising department of your school. Honors, on the other hand, is a more enhanced learning experience for those who want to have a more engaged learning experience and have a close-knit group that would eventually help you with letters of recommendation. It is okay to not know what to choose or how to live an adult life. ****
Ask questions to those who now know what to do, as they were once in your shoes too.
<aside> 📓 Tip: Always ask your upperclassmen for the pdf of class books. 7/10 they might have it saved somewhere on their computer and that would be around 100 dollars you get to save.
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“Now that you graduated what do you want to do?”
When someone asks you this question, it is okay to say “I have no idea.” For generations, college students have been expected to have a life plan that they must stick to from the moment they start their academic careers.
Whenever you feel like you are falling behind, remember that other’s timelines are not yours to follow.
It is okay to change your mind, change career choices, or even not pursue a career at all! If a job is all your heart desires to be happy, then it is the best choice for you! Many things, including the job market, come with uncertainty and it is important to understand that we know nothing. You have never lived life before, applied for a job, or even graduated college! It is ok to make the wrong decision and fix it. Try, fail, and try again. What is important is to never give up on your own happiness and success. Success is something that means very different things depending on who is asked. Do what is best for you and on your own time.
“It is okay to not know, and it is okay to fail. You have never lived a life before, and uncertainty can be found in every corner. Your success will happen on your own timeline, by your own definition.“