5 answers
Alina
Student
Arlington, Virginia
6
Questions
Asked
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What should I do, when Im so confused about my future?
Hi guys! I'm back again and I'm a little discouraged. Ive been recently feelings like I should enlist in the marines, or try to instead of going to university. I was feeling like I could go to college and continue schooling but as a student I don't stand out. I get like on average C+ as grades and don't do activities outside of school besides volunteer at a catholic elementary school and play rec soccer in my county's team. Thats all I do outside of school, Ive been recently looking for a job but I slowly am starting to doubt myself since i can barely do my homework without procrastinating or giving up. I not sure what to do anymore, Ive literally not even finished applying to like 3 universities yet nor have I submitted my FASFA. If I even stand a chance I might just go to a library and lock in there. Please help or have recommendations for me🙏
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5 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1464
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Alina,
So firstly dont be discouraged ever, because these are just obstacles for you to tackle in life, now take a deep breath! You got this. First off, feeling confused about the future is practically a rite of passage—like forgetting where you put your phone while you’re holding it. So, let’s go through it together, without the panic, alright?😋
About the soooo College (Even If You’re Meh About It Right Now).
Know that you don’t, don't need straight A’s to get into college! Tons of universities accept C+ students, and some even look at your overall growth, not just grades.
You’re already volunteering and playing soccer—those count as extracurriculars!
Remmeber🤔, FAFSA isn’t the boss of you. It’s literally free money if you qualify, so go fill it out!🤗
Now about the Military (Marines or Other Options).
The Marines are intense, but if you crave discipline, challenge, and adventure, it could be a great fit.
If you're unsure, consider ROTC programs where you can do college and military together.
Other military branches might also be worth looking at (Air Force, Army, Navy—each has different vibes and career paths).
Alina there are Trade Schools (Because College Isn’t the Only Way to Succeed).
Electricians, plumbers, mechanics, and many other skilled trades make serious money with way less school.
Hands-on learning = less sitting at a desk, more doing. So you can che the trade schools available at your rwgion and if you need help out with it just let me know too.
Rmebr there is always the, Work First, School Later choice too if you want to take.
If school feels like a struggle right now, maybe taking a year to work and gain real-world experience could help.
Entry-level jobs, apprenticeships, or even internships can teach you way more than another year of procrastinating on homework.
So now what I call The “Figure It Out as You Go” Approach!
You don’t need all the answers today. Try different things, take small steps, and see what clicks. Learning nad experimenting is what life is all about, it takes time yes but gradually you find that something that you never want to let go. So ask yourself what is it that makes you happy, gets you inspired and going? What is it chat you love doing and always never get tired of? If you dont know yesterday just keep searchin, you will find it sooner or later dont worry. 😇
You’re already looking for a job and volunteering—that’s initiative! Give yourself credit.
Alina, remember that You are not a not at all, just because you don’t have a clear path yet. Know that-No one really does. Honestly, Even adults are out here switching careers like they’re changing Netflix shows. What matters is trying things, learning from experiences, and moving forward, even if it's baby steps.
Now, go grab a snack, take a deep breath, and tackle those applications (or job searches) one at a time. You got this, future legend, I am rooting for you and believe in you so start believing too, you are never alone! 😉 If you want to know anything else just let me know! 😊
So firstly dont be discouraged ever, because these are just obstacles for you to tackle in life, now take a deep breath! You got this. First off, feeling confused about the future is practically a rite of passage—like forgetting where you put your phone while you’re holding it. So, let’s go through it together, without the panic, alright?😋
About the soooo College (Even If You’re Meh About It Right Now).
Know that you don’t, don't need straight A’s to get into college! Tons of universities accept C+ students, and some even look at your overall growth, not just grades.
You’re already volunteering and playing soccer—those count as extracurriculars!
Remmeber🤔, FAFSA isn’t the boss of you. It’s literally free money if you qualify, so go fill it out!🤗
Now about the Military (Marines or Other Options).
The Marines are intense, but if you crave discipline, challenge, and adventure, it could be a great fit.
If you're unsure, consider ROTC programs where you can do college and military together.
Other military branches might also be worth looking at (Air Force, Army, Navy—each has different vibes and career paths).
Alina there are Trade Schools (Because College Isn’t the Only Way to Succeed).
Electricians, plumbers, mechanics, and many other skilled trades make serious money with way less school.
Hands-on learning = less sitting at a desk, more doing. So you can che the trade schools available at your rwgion and if you need help out with it just let me know too.
Rmebr there is always the, Work First, School Later choice too if you want to take.
If school feels like a struggle right now, maybe taking a year to work and gain real-world experience could help.
Entry-level jobs, apprenticeships, or even internships can teach you way more than another year of procrastinating on homework.
So now what I call The “Figure It Out as You Go” Approach!
You don’t need all the answers today. Try different things, take small steps, and see what clicks. Learning nad experimenting is what life is all about, it takes time yes but gradually you find that something that you never want to let go. So ask yourself what is it that makes you happy, gets you inspired and going? What is it chat you love doing and always never get tired of? If you dont know yesterday just keep searchin, you will find it sooner or later dont worry. 😇
You’re already looking for a job and volunteering—that’s initiative! Give yourself credit.
Alina, remember that You are not a not at all, just because you don’t have a clear path yet. Know that-No one really does. Honestly, Even adults are out here switching careers like they’re changing Netflix shows. What matters is trying things, learning from experiences, and moving forward, even if it's baby steps.
Now, go grab a snack, take a deep breath, and tackle those applications (or job searches) one at a time. You got this, future legend, I am rooting for you and believe in you so start believing too, you are never alone! 😉 If you want to know anything else just let me know! 😊
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1942
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Alina you are surrounded by people who want to see you succeed, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. Mentors for you can be teachers, family friends, or even your school counselors. They are there to help you reach your goals and can help you create a study plan that works for you. Try reaching out to your friends and peers in school as well, and see if they would like to start a study group. Sometimes, it can even be healthy to share your struggles with others as a way of clearing your head and moving on.
Afrad Mahamed
Operations & Project Management
128
Answers
Lakeland, Florida
Updated
Afrad’s Answer
Hi Alina -
I recommend trying to experience as many of the things you're even remotely interested in. This will provide you a better understanding of how they are in the real world, vs what you hear or may read about. Take opportunities to do internships, site visits, volunteer, or anything that would allow you to witness employees in the field. YouTube has a lot of videos on almost any field or job, which can also shed light. Keep in mind this is not a guaranteed formula to give you that "epiphany" that you seek, but it would greatly increase the probability.
At times, simply traveling this path of discovery is what's needed to highlight opportunities for us.
On the other hand, spend time thinking about what is important to you. What about a job or career do you value most? Money, impact (making a difference), low demand, being famous, etc. Once you know what's most important to you, you can narrow down the best career for you further.
Hope this helps, best of luck!
I recommend trying to experience as many of the things you're even remotely interested in. This will provide you a better understanding of how they are in the real world, vs what you hear or may read about. Take opportunities to do internships, site visits, volunteer, or anything that would allow you to witness employees in the field. YouTube has a lot of videos on almost any field or job, which can also shed light. Keep in mind this is not a guaranteed formula to give you that "epiphany" that you seek, but it would greatly increase the probability.
At times, simply traveling this path of discovery is what's needed to highlight opportunities for us.
On the other hand, spend time thinking about what is important to you. What about a job or career do you value most? Money, impact (making a difference), low demand, being famous, etc. Once you know what's most important to you, you can narrow down the best career for you further.
Hope this helps, best of luck!
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
1058
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Alina, I want you to know that it is completely normal to feel confused about your future, especially when you're at a crossroads. Take a deep breath and remember that you're not alone in this. Many people feel unsure at this stage in life, and it's okay to not have everything figured out right away. It's great that you're actively thinking about your options—whether it's enlisting in the Marines, going to college, or another path entirely. This shows that you care about your future and are trying to make the best decision for yourself.
In terms of your academic performance, it’s important to remember that your grades don’t define your potential. The fact that you're volunteering and playing rec soccer shows that you have skills and qualities beyond just academics—like dedication, teamwork, and a willingness to give back to your community. These are valuable traits, and they count in the bigger picture of your life. If you're struggling with procrastination or self-doubt, consider taking things one step at a time. Maybe start by finishing your college applications or completing your FAFSA. Breaking big tasks into smaller, manageable pieces can help reduce that overwhelming feeling.
Finally, Alina, don’t be afraid to seek support. Whether it’s talking to a guidance counselor, a trusted mentor, or even friends and family, having people to lean on can make a big difference. You don’t have to have everything sorted out right now, and it’s okay to explore different paths. Both college and the military are valid options, and whatever you choose, remember that it’s about what will help you grow and thrive. Take your time, and give yourself credit for the effort you're putting in—you’re already on the right track by asking for help and being open about your feelings.
In terms of your academic performance, it’s important to remember that your grades don’t define your potential. The fact that you're volunteering and playing rec soccer shows that you have skills and qualities beyond just academics—like dedication, teamwork, and a willingness to give back to your community. These are valuable traits, and they count in the bigger picture of your life. If you're struggling with procrastination or self-doubt, consider taking things one step at a time. Maybe start by finishing your college applications or completing your FAFSA. Breaking big tasks into smaller, manageable pieces can help reduce that overwhelming feeling.
Finally, Alina, don’t be afraid to seek support. Whether it’s talking to a guidance counselor, a trusted mentor, or even friends and family, having people to lean on can make a big difference. You don’t have to have everything sorted out right now, and it’s okay to explore different paths. Both college and the military are valid options, and whatever you choose, remember that it’s about what will help you grow and thrive. Take your time, and give yourself credit for the effort you're putting in—you’re already on the right track by asking for help and being open about your feelings.
Michelle Do
Student
1
Answer
Westwood, California
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello Alina,
For starters, I can relate to you. I want to start by saying do not feel discouraged, there is a saying that "C's get degrees" and I am a prime example of that. I first started my academic career at community college and began to receive C's in my general chemistry classes and organic chemistry. I thought my life was over, thinking universities would not accept me. I pushed through, finished three years at community college, and tried a third round of applications to universities. Now, I am finishing my last year of undergrad at UCLA and it is safe to say that even the top public university in the nation accepted my C's.
For your extracurriculars, I did also only volunteer and worked at my local supermarket. To me, you sound well rounded and you should not be so hard on yourself. If anything, I would advise you to do what I did, just try to make myself a better applicant because if you want to continue your education, you're fighting a big pool of applicants going through the same thing.
I wish you the best!
For starters, I can relate to you. I want to start by saying do not feel discouraged, there is a saying that "C's get degrees" and I am a prime example of that. I first started my academic career at community college and began to receive C's in my general chemistry classes and organic chemistry. I thought my life was over, thinking universities would not accept me. I pushed through, finished three years at community college, and tried a third round of applications to universities. Now, I am finishing my last year of undergrad at UCLA and it is safe to say that even the top public university in the nation accepted my C's.
For your extracurriculars, I did also only volunteer and worked at my local supermarket. To me, you sound well rounded and you should not be so hard on yourself. If anything, I would advise you to do what I did, just try to make myself a better applicant because if you want to continue your education, you're fighting a big pool of applicants going through the same thing.
I wish you the best!