9 answers
Macie
Student
Fernandina Beach, Florida
8
Questions
Asked
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What is the right career for me?
Hello!
I am looking for advice regarding my current career path. I am a freshman at the University of Florida Online majoring in Communications, Sciences, and Disorders, with a focus on becoming a Speech-Language Pathologist. However, I do not know if I am making the right decision. I picked this career because I wanted to work with kids, I am good at analyzing and synthesizing information (like for diagnosing patients), and I knew I needed to get a college degree to secure my future in this current economy. The problem is, I hate college and I do not want to be stuck pursuing a degree I am not sure I even really want for the next five years. However, up until this point I have only taken General Education classes and I have not actually gotten into classes that actually have to do with my major (another point of frustration for me as I did dual enrollment for two years in high school and yet I am still paying for classes that have absolutely nothing to do with my major and I have no desire to take), so maybe my perspective will change when I finally get to those courses. I am looking for something that might take less time and can utilize some of the credits I've already earned, as well as my skills and interests. In addition to the things previously mentioned, I am working a part-time job that involves graphic design, and interior decorating, which I like doing. I am open to suggestions and advice! I would prefer a degree that is worth my time; that is, a career that makes decent pay.
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9 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer, TRIO Program Administrator
1009
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
There are several things that you can do in order to determine what you want in regards to a future major or career path.
Remember, you will have two years (until you declare a major at the beginning of your junior year in college), to make a final determination, of what you want to do. So, definitely take advantage of this time and complete your General University Requirements (during your first two years), so you can eventually progress into a major.
You might start out by exploring your personal interests and strengths through activities like career assessments and the courses that you will be taking in your first two years. There will be a variety of things, that you will be taking. This includes Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Math, and other courses. So definitely use these classes to determine where your strongest interests are.
Next, research different majors, their course content, and potential career paths by conducting informational interviews with professors and people at the college career center, and investigating job market trends.
Finally, consider your long-term goals and values, and remember that it is okay to start as an undecided student and change your major as you learn more about yourself and different fields.
I have a basic formula, when it comes to determining a major or a future occupation related to that major. Choose something that you love to do, not just a passion, but really love. It must be something that you love so much, that even if they did not pay you to do it, you would still do it anyway. American historian, David McCullough, said it even more clearly. He stated that he loved writing about history so much, that he would have paid someone, so that he could do it every day. His love of his major and occupation was this great.
Remember, you will have two years (until you declare a major at the beginning of your junior year in college), to make a final determination, of what you want to do. So, definitely take advantage of this time and complete your General University Requirements (during your first two years), so you can eventually progress into a major.
You might start out by exploring your personal interests and strengths through activities like career assessments and the courses that you will be taking in your first two years. There will be a variety of things, that you will be taking. This includes Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Math, and other courses. So definitely use these classes to determine where your strongest interests are.
Next, research different majors, their course content, and potential career paths by conducting informational interviews with professors and people at the college career center, and investigating job market trends.
Finally, consider your long-term goals and values, and remember that it is okay to start as an undecided student and change your major as you learn more about yourself and different fields.
I have a basic formula, when it comes to determining a major or a future occupation related to that major. Choose something that you love to do, not just a passion, but really love. It must be something that you love so much, that even if they did not pay you to do it, you would still do it anyway. American historian, David McCullough, said it even more clearly. He stated that he loved writing about history so much, that he would have paid someone, so that he could do it every day. His love of his major and occupation was this great.
Thank you for your advice!
Macie
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Macie. Right now, you're majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders because you want to become a Speech-Language Pathologist. That's a great and meaningful career that helps people, especially children, improve how they speak and communicate. It also pays well and has strong job security. However, becoming an SLP requires several more years of school. Since you already feel frustrated with college, it's understandable that this long path might not feel right for you.
You also mentioned that you enjoy your part-time job doing graphic design and interior decorating. That's an important clue about your interests and strengths. You might enjoy a career that lets you use your creativity and design skills. Jobs in marketing, digital media, graphic design, or interior design could be good options. These careers often allow you to express your creativity, work with people, and solve problems. The best part is that some of these paths don't always require a degree. You could take shorter programs, earn certifications, or build a portfolio to show your work.
If you still want a stable career that helps people but don't want to spend years in graduate school, you could look into becoming a speech or occupational therapy assistant. These jobs let you work directly with patients and make a difference without needing an advanced degree. They also pay well.
All the best.
You also mentioned that you enjoy your part-time job doing graphic design and interior decorating. That's an important clue about your interests and strengths. You might enjoy a career that lets you use your creativity and design skills. Jobs in marketing, digital media, graphic design, or interior design could be good options. These careers often allow you to express your creativity, work with people, and solve problems. The best part is that some of these paths don't always require a degree. You could take shorter programs, earn certifications, or build a portfolio to show your work.
If you still want a stable career that helps people but don't want to spend years in graduate school, you could look into becoming a speech or occupational therapy assistant. These jobs let you work directly with patients and make a difference without needing an advanced degree. They also pay well.
All the best.
Dr Lucas Txibamba
Humanitarian
19
Answers
Luanda, Luanda Province, Angola
Updated
Dr Lucas’s Answer
Hello Macie!
It's completely normal to feel uncertain about your career path, especially before you've started your major-specific courses. Based on your situation, I've compared the career you're currently considering (Speech-Language Pathologist) with the field you're already gaining experience in (Graphic Design) to help you see a clearer picture.
Here is a direct comparison of these two career paths based on the information available.
Career Aspect Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) Graphic Designer
Typical Education Required Master's Degree Bachelor's or Associate Degree
Typical Time to Qualify 5-6 years (Bachelor's + Master's) 2-4 years (Associate or Bachelor's)
Median Annual Salary ~ $92,666** ~ **$83,720 ~ $53,364** ~ **$73,975 (Experienced, in a high-demand city)
Key Work Activities Diagnosing & treating communication/swallowing disorders, analyzing patient needs, developing therapy plans Visual communication, creating logos/packaging/websites, using design software
Potential Work Settings Schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, private practices In-house for a company, design agencies, remote/freelance
Fits Your Stated Interests Working with kids, analyzing information for diagnosis Graphic design, interior decorating (creative work)
Advice for Your Next Steps
Given your frustration, here are some actionable steps you can take to make a more confident decision without wasting time:
· Connect with a UF Advisor Immediately: Since you're already enrolled, this is your most powerful resource. Contact your academic advisor at the University of Florida Online to:
· Audit a core major course: Ask if you can sit in on a key SLP course this semester to get a real feel for the content.
· Clarify your degree plan: Ask them to map out exactly how your existing credits apply and how long the full SLP track (including the necessary master's degree) will take.
· Discuss a potential "switch": Inquire about what it would take to switch your major to something like Graphic Design, and how your current credits would transfer.
· Gain Direct Experience: Nothing confirms or rules out a career like hands-on experience.
· For SLP: Try to find observation opportunities at a local school, clinic, or hospital. Shadowing a working SLP, even for a day, could give you invaluable insight.
· For Graphic Design: Leverage your part-time job. Take on more complex design projects, ask for feedback, and see if the day-to-day creative problem-solving truly fulfills you.
· Evaluate What "Worth It" Means to You: The table shows a significant difference in educational investment and typical salary.
· An SLP career requires a longer, more rigorous academic path but generally offers higher financial compensation and job growth (18% from 2023-2033) .
· A Graphic Design career often has a lower barrier to entry and offers more flexible/remote work options , but top salaries may require becoming highly skilled and experienced .
I hope this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer foundation for your decision. Since you're already in a program, speaking with your university advisor should be your very next step to get the most accurate and personalized guidance.
Dr Lucas
It's completely normal to feel uncertain about your career path, especially before you've started your major-specific courses. Based on your situation, I've compared the career you're currently considering (Speech-Language Pathologist) with the field you're already gaining experience in (Graphic Design) to help you see a clearer picture.
Here is a direct comparison of these two career paths based on the information available.
Career Aspect Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) Graphic Designer
Typical Education Required Master's Degree Bachelor's or Associate Degree
Typical Time to Qualify 5-6 years (Bachelor's + Master's) 2-4 years (Associate or Bachelor's)
Median Annual Salary ~ $92,666** ~ **$83,720 ~ $53,364** ~ **$73,975 (Experienced, in a high-demand city)
Key Work Activities Diagnosing & treating communication/swallowing disorders, analyzing patient needs, developing therapy plans Visual communication, creating logos/packaging/websites, using design software
Potential Work Settings Schools, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, private practices In-house for a company, design agencies, remote/freelance
Fits Your Stated Interests Working with kids, analyzing information for diagnosis Graphic design, interior decorating (creative work)
Advice for Your Next Steps
Given your frustration, here are some actionable steps you can take to make a more confident decision without wasting time:
· Connect with a UF Advisor Immediately: Since you're already enrolled, this is your most powerful resource. Contact your academic advisor at the University of Florida Online to:
· Audit a core major course: Ask if you can sit in on a key SLP course this semester to get a real feel for the content.
· Clarify your degree plan: Ask them to map out exactly how your existing credits apply and how long the full SLP track (including the necessary master's degree) will take.
· Discuss a potential "switch": Inquire about what it would take to switch your major to something like Graphic Design, and how your current credits would transfer.
· Gain Direct Experience: Nothing confirms or rules out a career like hands-on experience.
· For SLP: Try to find observation opportunities at a local school, clinic, or hospital. Shadowing a working SLP, even for a day, could give you invaluable insight.
· For Graphic Design: Leverage your part-time job. Take on more complex design projects, ask for feedback, and see if the day-to-day creative problem-solving truly fulfills you.
· Evaluate What "Worth It" Means to You: The table shows a significant difference in educational investment and typical salary.
· An SLP career requires a longer, more rigorous academic path but generally offers higher financial compensation and job growth (18% from 2023-2033) .
· A Graphic Design career often has a lower barrier to entry and offers more flexible/remote work options , but top salaries may require becoming highly skilled and experienced .
I hope this side-by-side comparison gives you a clearer foundation for your decision. Since you're already in a program, speaking with your university advisor should be your very next step to get the most accurate and personalized guidance.
Dr Lucas
Jonathan Echegaray
HR Data Processing Manager
2
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Jonathan’s Answer
Hey Macie,
It's completely normal to feel this way. Many people, both in and out of school, often question their path or interests. Remember why you love working with kids; it’s what brought you here. I was in a similar spot. I chose psychology because I enjoyed analyzing things and working with children. Over time, I discovered a love for technology and data, but my true passion was helping others grow, which led me to become a Manager.
While general studies might not seem exciting now and make you feel this way, it's part of the curriculum and can often act as a deterrent. Stick with it, but keep exploring other options too. Fields like Web Design or UX design could be perfect for you. Even if you’re not directly working with kids, you can create tools that help them learn and grow. Many companies need tech-savvy people who want to make a difference. As the world evolves, new opportunities keep popping up. Now is the perfect time to explore these while you’re still learning. It’s easier to switch directions now than later if you do make that decision.
I hope this helps, and I wish you all the best on your journey!
It's completely normal to feel this way. Many people, both in and out of school, often question their path or interests. Remember why you love working with kids; it’s what brought you here. I was in a similar spot. I chose psychology because I enjoyed analyzing things and working with children. Over time, I discovered a love for technology and data, but my true passion was helping others grow, which led me to become a Manager.
While general studies might not seem exciting now and make you feel this way, it's part of the curriculum and can often act as a deterrent. Stick with it, but keep exploring other options too. Fields like Web Design or UX design could be perfect for you. Even if you’re not directly working with kids, you can create tools that help them learn and grow. Many companies need tech-savvy people who want to make a difference. As the world evolves, new opportunities keep popping up. Now is the perfect time to explore these while you’re still learning. It’s easier to switch directions now than later if you do make that decision.
I hope this helps, and I wish you all the best on your journey!
Sindhura Mullamuri
BI
14
Answers
Foster City, California
Updated
Sindhura’s Answer
Hi, here are some shorter options based on your interests:
Digital Design or Visual Communication
Web Design
UX/UI or Graphic Design (since you like your current part-time job)
You might also consider a flexible major like Communication and decide later if you want to specialize.
Before deciding, I suggest:
Shadowing a Speech-Language Pathologist
Meeting with your academic advisor about credit transfer
Trying at least one intro course in your major
Digital Design or Visual Communication
Web Design
UX/UI or Graphic Design (since you like your current part-time job)
You might also consider a flexible major like Communication and decide later if you want to specialize.
Before deciding, I suggest:
Shadowing a Speech-Language Pathologist
Meeting with your academic advisor about credit transfer
Trying at least one intro course in your major
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Macie
Maria Rehmet
Architect
26
Answers
Plano, Texas
Updated
Maria’s Answer
I always recommend an intership or work experience in the field you are wanting to pursue. You’ve already done that with graphic design and interior decorating! If you enjoy the work, you most likely will enjoy studying it as well. If you want something with analysis and problem solving, while still being creative and artistically driven - architecture or interior design are both great options! They make decent to well paying salaries, and depending on your career goals, you can do 4 years minimum or 6 years max for a degree!
Once upon a time I wanted to be a doctor. I was the president of my medical club and started my freshman year as a biology major. Even though I enjoyed the rotations and shadowing doctors, I never saw all the paperwork and behind the scenes that they really did and complained about. I was dreading having 10 years of schooling. Then when I started taking the courses for premed, I wasn't as intrigued as I thought I would be. I missed art and craved math - so I pivoted to an architecture degree! Here I am 7 years later, loving this field. It’s never too late to pivot. If you’re not sure, trust your gut, think through your options, and if you need to - pivot!
You got this!
Once upon a time I wanted to be a doctor. I was the president of my medical club and started my freshman year as a biology major. Even though I enjoyed the rotations and shadowing doctors, I never saw all the paperwork and behind the scenes that they really did and complained about. I was dreading having 10 years of schooling. Then when I started taking the courses for premed, I wasn't as intrigued as I thought I would be. I missed art and craved math - so I pivoted to an architecture degree! Here I am 7 years later, loving this field. It’s never too late to pivot. If you’re not sure, trust your gut, think through your options, and if you need to - pivot!
You got this!
Thank you so much for the advice.
Macie
Bryan Morales
Business Analyst
5
Answers
San José, Costa Rica
Updated
Bryan’s Answer
Hey! First off, what you're feeling is 100% normal. Honestly, being a freshman, questioning your major, and hating Gen Ed classes is practically a rite of passage. You're not stuck at all—you're just being smart and thinking ahead.
Here's a simple plan to help you figure this out:
- Go see the job in person. Before you drop your SLP major, you have to see what the job is actually like. Your classes right now are nothing like the real world. Go shadow a couple of Speech-Language Pathologists. Call a local clinic or school and just ask. This is the only way you'll know if you'll love it (and get motivated to finish school) or if it's a definite "nope."
- Level-up your side hustle. You like your design job, which is awesome! So, lean into that. While you're slogging through Gen Eds, use free online tools to get really good at design. Check out free courses on Canva or Coursera, or just watch YouTube tutorials. Try to build a small portfolio of 3-4 projects. This is a super low-pressure way to see if it’s a real career passion.
- Do some quick "future-proofing." You're right to want a job that pays well. So, do a little detective work. Google the average salaries and job openings for all your options (SLP, graphic design, interior design). Pay attention to where the best-paying jobs are, since that can make a huge difference. You'll quickly see the pros and cons—like how SLP pays a lot more but also takes more school.
Basically, you're just gathering real-world clues. Shadowing will test the SLP path, and building a portfolio will test the design path. Once you have that info, you'll feel so much more confident about your next move.
You've got this!
Here's a simple plan to help you figure this out:
- Go see the job in person. Before you drop your SLP major, you have to see what the job is actually like. Your classes right now are nothing like the real world. Go shadow a couple of Speech-Language Pathologists. Call a local clinic or school and just ask. This is the only way you'll know if you'll love it (and get motivated to finish school) or if it's a definite "nope."
- Level-up your side hustle. You like your design job, which is awesome! So, lean into that. While you're slogging through Gen Eds, use free online tools to get really good at design. Check out free courses on Canva or Coursera, or just watch YouTube tutorials. Try to build a small portfolio of 3-4 projects. This is a super low-pressure way to see if it’s a real career passion.
- Do some quick "future-proofing." You're right to want a job that pays well. So, do a little detective work. Google the average salaries and job openings for all your options (SLP, graphic design, interior design). Pay attention to where the best-paying jobs are, since that can make a huge difference. You'll quickly see the pros and cons—like how SLP pays a lot more but also takes more school.
Basically, you're just gathering real-world clues. Shadowing will test the SLP path, and building a portfolio will test the design path. Once you have that info, you'll feel so much more confident about your next move.
You've got this!
Thank you so much! That was actually really helpful.
Macie
Michelle M.
Actress
3276
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Macie !
A reason why you may not be liking college is perhaps because you're doing it online. College can be a wonderful experience on campus, among students and professors and doing projects, attending activities, so I would suggest trying in person on site college for a fuller experience.
To be a Speech Pathologist, you would need to get your Bachelors Degree in Speech Pathology and do none of it online. This is a healthcare career that should be done in person for the most effective learning experience. You would then go for your Masters, do clinicals and take your Licensing test. It's okay to change your mind about this career.
I see that you are already professionally working in graphic design and interior decorating. Those are wonderful careers that you should not be shy to pursue academically. Speech Pathology is an awesome career, but you need the right path and need to have a certain love for it. It is indeed a stable career, pays well, but it's perfectly okay if you are not interested in it and favor graphic design and interior decorating. Find a college that will accept the online courses you've already taken and enroll as a graphic design or an interior design major if that's more of what you want to do. Don't worry about salary just yet. Do what you love and you will be sure to have opportunities, especially if you attend college in person, on site.
The University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida does actually offer a Bachelors Degree in Graphic Design and they offer a Bachelors in Interior Design, too. It would have to be a decision you make to switch majors based on the career you really want. Things might seem better if you attend in person and have a real campus life, meeting new friends and doing projects and keeping up with opportunities through your major department.
So it all comes down to really deciding what you really want to do. No one can tell you and you shouldn't worry about future salaries or stability because those worries can be barriers and keep you at a standstill. No one knows what their career path will exactly be before they graduate college. It's just something you take step by step and as you make contacts and people see your work, you will be surprised at the doors that would open for you. Online is not going to put you out there.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best for making a decision that you'll be very happy with !
A reason why you may not be liking college is perhaps because you're doing it online. College can be a wonderful experience on campus, among students and professors and doing projects, attending activities, so I would suggest trying in person on site college for a fuller experience.
To be a Speech Pathologist, you would need to get your Bachelors Degree in Speech Pathology and do none of it online. This is a healthcare career that should be done in person for the most effective learning experience. You would then go for your Masters, do clinicals and take your Licensing test. It's okay to change your mind about this career.
I see that you are already professionally working in graphic design and interior decorating. Those are wonderful careers that you should not be shy to pursue academically. Speech Pathology is an awesome career, but you need the right path and need to have a certain love for it. It is indeed a stable career, pays well, but it's perfectly okay if you are not interested in it and favor graphic design and interior decorating. Find a college that will accept the online courses you've already taken and enroll as a graphic design or an interior design major if that's more of what you want to do. Don't worry about salary just yet. Do what you love and you will be sure to have opportunities, especially if you attend college in person, on site.
The University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida does actually offer a Bachelors Degree in Graphic Design and they offer a Bachelors in Interior Design, too. It would have to be a decision you make to switch majors based on the career you really want. Things might seem better if you attend in person and have a real campus life, meeting new friends and doing projects and keeping up with opportunities through your major department.
So it all comes down to really deciding what you really want to do. No one can tell you and you shouldn't worry about future salaries or stability because those worries can be barriers and keep you at a standstill. No one knows what their career path will exactly be before they graduate college. It's just something you take step by step and as you make contacts and people see your work, you will be surprised at the doors that would open for you. Online is not going to put you out there.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best for making a decision that you'll be very happy with !
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1085
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Macie,
It sounds like you are really not in the right career field for your interests. I can understand the desire to go into a field with stable careers and good pay, but without interest and passion, that's going to be a long slog.
The good thing is, you are in college. You can try out different things. Pop into a different class and check what they are doing. Talk with other students about their majors and classes. Use your gen ed requirements to take something that might lead you down a different road. Also, talk to your academic advisor about your doubts and your options at the school.
You also mention that you already work in graphic design and interior decorating. So, you are creative and have a sense for form and color and style. That's an excellent foundation for a major in graphic design, interior architecture, UX design or even architecture. I think you'd find much more enjoyment in those classes. And with work experience already under your belt you'll be able to build a stable career.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
It sounds like you are really not in the right career field for your interests. I can understand the desire to go into a field with stable careers and good pay, but without interest and passion, that's going to be a long slog.
The good thing is, you are in college. You can try out different things. Pop into a different class and check what they are doing. Talk with other students about their majors and classes. Use your gen ed requirements to take something that might lead you down a different road. Also, talk to your academic advisor about your doubts and your options at the school.
You also mention that you already work in graphic design and interior decorating. So, you are creative and have a sense for form and color and style. That's an excellent foundation for a major in graphic design, interior architecture, UX design or even architecture. I think you'd find much more enjoyment in those classes. And with work experience already under your belt you'll be able to build a stable career.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP