6 answers
Amelia
Student
Rock Island, Illinois
2
Questions
Asked
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How to not be scared of collage and figure out your major?
I am a 11th grader, and I am terrified of going to collage. I have an idea of what I want to do, I want to run in collage (as I am a runner now in high school), I want to help people so I think i'd like to go into the medical field. I want to do something that challenges me everyday and is different everyday. I was thinking of neuroscience or therapy, but i'm not 100% set on that. I want to work hands on with people see the impact that i'm making. I'm worried i'll go into med school and find out I dont like it or feel stuck and overall i'm really scared of going to collage and being thrown into growing up.
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6 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer, TRIO Program Administrator
1009
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
One thing that I have always told students is become engaged in what is commonly called "Campus Navigation."
Many colleges have campus tour programs, which provides an initial introduction to the college campus, but I recommend that all students go well beyond the campus tour.
I recommend getting a map of the campus and going for several visit. Visiting various location on campus can help, if you need assistance or feel lost when you arrive.
Many college professors and academic advisors have office hours, which enables current and future students to visit, so they can discuss their future college major or the possible path they should take towards attaining a degree.
Many campuses have college employment offices, which provide information and possible opportunities for employment and future internships.
I also recommend visiting the library, to check out where the best study locations are on the campus.
Checking out the locations of your future classes and becoming well acquainted with campus building can help avoid any issues when you arrive.
Find the buildings which house the various departments, like financial aid, admissions, college security and parking, student life, and campus housing, can also help.
The more knowledge you have of the college campus, and where resources can be found, the less apprehensive and confused you will be when you arrive on the campus to start your college experience. Easing the discomfort and apprehension is key to persistence in a college environment.
I would actually explore and see if there is a possible opportunity out there, for you to participate and play sports in college. One thing you do not want to do is have regrets, later in life, and wish that you had investigated the opportunities of playing college sports, or having the potential to earn a scholarship.
This is where an Athletic Resume and Cover Letter can be utilized
It is exactly what it sounds like. Except with a Job Resume and Cover Letter, you will be trying out for a job, with the Athletic Resume and Cover Letter, you will be applying and trying our for the sports team.
There are many examples of these Athletic Resume's and Cover Letters found online. Basically you will be emphasizing to the coach all about your athletic abilities, strengths, positions you played, school and state accomplishments and successes, athletic awards, future goals, and your future academic plans. Introduce the resume, and yourself, to the coach by utilizing the cover letter.
When you complete the Resume and Cover Letter, send it to the various coaches, via postal service letter, directly to their office on the college campus. You see, they literally receive thousands of emails each week, but if you contact them via a written letter, it will land directly on their desk, and they are most likely going to respond and send you information on their program and about academic possibilities on their campus. I mean, who gets an actual written letter from the postal carrier these days? This is one way to get their attention.
I did this with many of my advisee, over the years, with a great amount of success. College coaches do seem to enjoy getting a personal letter in the regular mail, than getting an email. It shows you are serious and are willing to make an effort in continuing your athletic career. I hope this has been helpful, Good luck in achieving your future athletic and academic goals.
Many colleges have campus tour programs, which provides an initial introduction to the college campus, but I recommend that all students go well beyond the campus tour.
I recommend getting a map of the campus and going for several visit. Visiting various location on campus can help, if you need assistance or feel lost when you arrive.
Many college professors and academic advisors have office hours, which enables current and future students to visit, so they can discuss their future college major or the possible path they should take towards attaining a degree.
Many campuses have college employment offices, which provide information and possible opportunities for employment and future internships.
I also recommend visiting the library, to check out where the best study locations are on the campus.
Checking out the locations of your future classes and becoming well acquainted with campus building can help avoid any issues when you arrive.
Find the buildings which house the various departments, like financial aid, admissions, college security and parking, student life, and campus housing, can also help.
The more knowledge you have of the college campus, and where resources can be found, the less apprehensive and confused you will be when you arrive on the campus to start your college experience. Easing the discomfort and apprehension is key to persistence in a college environment.
I would actually explore and see if there is a possible opportunity out there, for you to participate and play sports in college. One thing you do not want to do is have regrets, later in life, and wish that you had investigated the opportunities of playing college sports, or having the potential to earn a scholarship.
This is where an Athletic Resume and Cover Letter can be utilized
It is exactly what it sounds like. Except with a Job Resume and Cover Letter, you will be trying out for a job, with the Athletic Resume and Cover Letter, you will be applying and trying our for the sports team.
There are many examples of these Athletic Resume's and Cover Letters found online. Basically you will be emphasizing to the coach all about your athletic abilities, strengths, positions you played, school and state accomplishments and successes, athletic awards, future goals, and your future academic plans. Introduce the resume, and yourself, to the coach by utilizing the cover letter.
When you complete the Resume and Cover Letter, send it to the various coaches, via postal service letter, directly to their office on the college campus. You see, they literally receive thousands of emails each week, but if you contact them via a written letter, it will land directly on their desk, and they are most likely going to respond and send you information on their program and about academic possibilities on their campus. I mean, who gets an actual written letter from the postal carrier these days? This is one way to get their attention.
I did this with many of my advisee, over the years, with a great amount of success. College coaches do seem to enjoy getting a personal letter in the regular mail, than getting an email. It shows you are serious and are willing to make an effort in continuing your athletic career. I hope this has been helpful, Good luck in achieving your future athletic and academic goals.
I will use this advice as I prepare for my career.
Amelia
Anthony Hitchcock (US)
Auditor
11
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Anthony’s Answer
Hi Amelia,
I had similar anxieties growing up. I remember as an elementary schooler being scared about the thought of middle school and high school. I thought the work would be so much more difficult and that I wouldn't know what to do. But the truth is that school is like a ladder. Each grade is a step. If you're at the bottom of the ladder, of course you will be scared at the thought of the top of the ladder. And you should be, because it is so far away and probably unattainable without first climbing up the steps below it. That is all to say that each year of school prepares you for the more advanced coursework that fear. I promise if you keep on top of your work each step of the way, you will be more than prepared to tackle that challenge in the future.
Regarding how to choose a major, this is something I have a little bit less certain advice about, since I myself am still trying to figure out my calling. From what I hear, it sounds like you want a challenge, you want to help people, you want variety, and you want to see results that have real impacts on people's lives. I think that is all in alignment with the medical field, with the disclaimer that I don't really know much about it, as I work in Accounting/Finance. But I think these oversimplifications have some truth. I do think the medical field is more for people who want that impact on people's lives. In my own industry, I feel like it is more for people who don't feel as deep of a calling but are more drawn to the financial rewards. I think if you are someone whose main desire is to help people, the medical field is a great choice (and that comes with decent financial rewards as well). That is all I'll say.
Good luck!
-Anthony
I had similar anxieties growing up. I remember as an elementary schooler being scared about the thought of middle school and high school. I thought the work would be so much more difficult and that I wouldn't know what to do. But the truth is that school is like a ladder. Each grade is a step. If you're at the bottom of the ladder, of course you will be scared at the thought of the top of the ladder. And you should be, because it is so far away and probably unattainable without first climbing up the steps below it. That is all to say that each year of school prepares you for the more advanced coursework that fear. I promise if you keep on top of your work each step of the way, you will be more than prepared to tackle that challenge in the future.
Regarding how to choose a major, this is something I have a little bit less certain advice about, since I myself am still trying to figure out my calling. From what I hear, it sounds like you want a challenge, you want to help people, you want variety, and you want to see results that have real impacts on people's lives. I think that is all in alignment with the medical field, with the disclaimer that I don't really know much about it, as I work in Accounting/Finance. But I think these oversimplifications have some truth. I do think the medical field is more for people who want that impact on people's lives. In my own industry, I feel like it is more for people who don't feel as deep of a calling but are more drawn to the financial rewards. I think if you are someone whose main desire is to help people, the medical field is a great choice (and that comes with decent financial rewards as well). That is all I'll say.
Good luck!
-Anthony
Thank you, Anthony for the advice.
Amelia
eva chavira
financial professional
8
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
eva’s Answer
No one knows what they want to do starting college, it takes time and it may change throughout the way. Choose a school that fits right for you and just do it, once you're there i'm sure you will excel more than you think.
Thank you, eva!
Amelia
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2398
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to know that you have interest in medical sector.
Below are my suggestions :
1. There are many careers related neuroscience and therapy, e.g. physiotherapy, language therapy, occupational therapy, Psychiatrist, Neurosurgeon, etc. you can find out more online
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Attend the information sessions hosts by medical or related department of colleges. Speak to the professors if you can
4. Speak to someone working in these careers
5. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
6. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
7. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. There are many careers related neuroscience and therapy, e.g. physiotherapy, language therapy, occupational therapy, Psychiatrist, Neurosurgeon, etc. you can find out more online
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Attend the information sessions hosts by medical or related department of colleges. Speak to the professors if you can
4. Speak to someone working in these careers
5. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
6. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
7. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Thanks, can't wait to put this advice into action!
Amelia
Morgan Adams
Healthcare Administration
27
Answers
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Updated
Morgan’s Answer
Hi Amelia!
If you're thinking about a career in healthcare, getting your CNA certification or volunteering at a local hospital is a great start. It helps you see if this field is a good fit for you. You might even be able to get your CNA certification while still in high school. Also, consider starting at a community college instead of a big university. It's a smart way to complete basic courses and explore different career options. You can work with your advisor to find shadowing or volunteer opportunities in areas that interest you. Avoid spending a lot of money on a university if you're still unsure about your career path. Good luck!
If you're thinking about a career in healthcare, getting your CNA certification or volunteering at a local hospital is a great start. It helps you see if this field is a good fit for you. You might even be able to get your CNA certification while still in high school. Also, consider starting at a community college instead of a big university. It's a smart way to complete basic courses and explore different career options. You can work with your advisor to find shadowing or volunteer opportunities in areas that interest you. Avoid spending a lot of money on a university if you're still unsure about your career path. Good luck!
This was super helpful, thank you!
Amelia
eva chavira
financial professional
8
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
eva’s Answer
Everyone is scared of going to college and the next steps that seems like you are becoming an adult. the comforting part is every student around you also feels like this and you are not alone, it is not as hard/ challenging as you expect. You will learn about some of your favorite subjects with Professors who love teaching, have new experiences, be on your own in a different environment which allows you to grow. Don't worry! In a few years you will be excelling and missing college times!