To choose a major at 18 can feel like deciding on your life's direction before you've even had the chance to figure out your interests.
The pressure is an intense combination of family expectations, societal norms and your own hopes for the future. It’s a decision that can lead to a lot of stress and anxiety, especially when you’re not sure if you’re making the right choice. I know this because I’ve been there.
I started college as a pre-med major. I had set my mind at a young age to become a doctor, as I’ve always loved learning about the human body. The idea of helping people and making a positive impact on many lives was truly inspiring to me. I cemented this specific path. In fact, I didn't think to put any thought toward trying anything else.
But as I dove into my freshman year coursework, to my surprise, I felt uneasy. The subject matter didn’t interest me how I expected it to, the workload felt to be too much and the thought of spending the next decade in this field filled me with anxiety.
I did not want to admit this to myself, so I kept going despite the stress. I felt trapped, it felt like I was sabotaging myself. I knew I was not happy with the work I was doing, but I continued to convince myself I was.
Still, to change my major meant I was failing, like I quit on my dream within the first year. I remember asking myself, “If I don’t do this, what am I going to do?” I couldn’t think of anything — until I changed my mindset.
I eventually realized holding on to what wasn’t right for me was the real failure. Letting go of my 18-year-old-self's expectations was the biggest step I made in achieving satisfaction. Although switching my major to Communication Arts felt like jumping off a cliff, it turned out to be the best decision I could have made.
I realized I am able to use my love of working with people in many other ways than just medicine, as I can make an impact on many lives despite my major choice. My switch prompted me to continue on my path of growth and development but I decided to add on certificates in both entrepreneurship and economics.
Through the process of finding my interests and passions, I not only found one specific major I loved, but multiple subjects I enjoyed. I would have had no idea that I had a passion for all of these areas if I continued on a path I disliked. This was a lesson I learned proving great discovery and growth can come from the discomfort of the unknown.
College is a time for you to learn and grow. A time for finding yourself, your passions, hobbies and interests. So do it, allow yourself to be free and try new things. Allow yourself to escape the idea of a set “plan” and start writing your “plan” as it comes.
It’s okay — and sometimes necessary — to change your major because growth and change are natural. At 18, you’re still figuring out who you are. It’s completely normal for your interests and passions to shift as you gain more life experience. Don’t be afraid to let your major reflect that growth.
Sometimes, it takes exploring different fields to find what truly excites you. Don’t see a major change as a setback but a step closer to discovering what you’re passionate about. In addition, sticking with a major you strongly dislike can lead to intense burnout. College is hard enough without the added stress of pursuing a path that doesn’t work for you.
If you’re feeling the pressure of choosing the “right” major or contemplating a switch, know you are not alone. Remember it’s okay to change your mind. Your college journey is about discovering what makes you happy and fulfilled.
