23 answers
kaylee
Student
Morganton, North Carolina
1
Question
Updated
206 views
What should I do if I don't like the career I end up studying, or I don't like the college I go too?
I am the first person in my family to go to college, its made it difficult for me to figure out how to apply to schools, scholarships, etc. I don't wanna make the wrong decision for my future career and be stuck.
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23 answers
Philip Mangels
Senior Manager
3
Answers
Irvine, California
Updated
Philip’s Answer
Congratulations on your achievements! Many people believe the choices we make at the start of college define our entire future. However, it's really up to you. The skills you've developed will help you find the right career path. For example, I went to college thinking I wanted to work with computers but soon realized I didn't want to be a programmer. I attended a career fair to see where my skills fit and discovered I enjoyed consulting. I've switched jobs since then but returned to consulting. Remember, your decisions today don't have to limit where you'll be in five years. You're in control of your career path. Congrats again!
Hongjin Chen
Audit
5
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Hongjin’s Answer
Hi Kaylee,
You do not have to have your entire future figured out right now. It is okay to feel unsure. What matters most is making a decision that is affordable, flexible, and gives you room to learn.
If you choose a major or school and later realize it is not the right fit, that does not mean you failed. Many people change majors, transfer schools, or switch career goals after getting more experience. The important thing is to stay open, ask for help, and adjust when you need to. You are not behind, and you are not stuck. You are learning, and that is exactly what college is for.
You do not have to have your entire future figured out right now. It is okay to feel unsure. What matters most is making a decision that is affordable, flexible, and gives you room to learn.
If you choose a major or school and later realize it is not the right fit, that does not mean you failed. Many people change majors, transfer schools, or switch career goals after getting more experience. The important thing is to stay open, ask for help, and adjust when you need to. You are not behind, and you are not stuck. You are learning, and that is exactly what college is for.
Adina Magda
Marketing Manager
1
Answer
Cleveland, Ohio
Updated
Adina’s Answer
Hi Kaylee,
Congrats on your decision to go to college! I want to give you some encouragement. Its ok not to know what you want to be when you grow up. I am 42 years old and still don't know. I've pivoted multiple times in my career and enjoyed trying new roles and opportunities. There is no rule that you have to stick with the career you started early in your career. My advice to you is find 3-4 careers that are of interest. Reach out to friends and family and see if they know anyone who currently works in those fields. Then you schedule calls and interview them and find out what they like and dislike about their roles. Or better yet, ask if you can shadow them for a day! Best of luck on your new adventure.
Congrats on your decision to go to college! I want to give you some encouragement. Its ok not to know what you want to be when you grow up. I am 42 years old and still don't know. I've pivoted multiple times in my career and enjoyed trying new roles and opportunities. There is no rule that you have to stick with the career you started early in your career. My advice to you is find 3-4 careers that are of interest. Reach out to friends and family and see if they know anyone who currently works in those fields. Then you schedule calls and interview them and find out what they like and dislike about their roles. Or better yet, ask if you can shadow them for a day! Best of luck on your new adventure.
Maie Hassanein
Tax Technology Senior Manager
7
Answers
Irvine, California
Updated
Maie’s Answer
When I was in college, I struggled to decide what I wanted to do. I changed my major several times before finding something I truly enjoyed in my junior year. It's perfectly fine if you don't know what you want to do right now, and it's okay to change your major until you find something you love. Remember to explore career paths that can lead to a bright future. Also, consider including AI in your studies to stay ahead in today's world.
Jac Kenitz
Consulting
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Jac’s Answer
Hi Kaylee — first, if you end up not liking the major you choose or the college you go to, you are not stuck. It may feel like these decisions determine your whole future, but they really don’t. A lot of students change their major or even transfer schools once they learn more about what they like and what fits them best. College is not just about picking one path and staying on it forever — it’s equally about having time to explore and adjust.
I was also a first generation college student, and I know that being the first in your family can make these decisions feel even heavier. When you don’t have people around you who have already gone through this process, it can feel like you have to get every decision exactly right. But you don’t. What matters most is staying curious, paying attention to what genuinely interests you, and giving yourself permission to change direction when something no longer feels right.
One thing that can help is treating classes, internships, and school clubs as ways to test things out. Sometimes you learn what you love, and sometimes you learn what you don’t — both are useful. And the truth is, there may be more than one field that fits you well.
I know that from experience. In college, I majored in Psychology and Neuroscience because I wanted to become a clinical psychologist. But after trying an HR/recruiting internship during my senior year, I realized I loved working in a corporate environment instead. That led me to pursue Organizational Psychology and eventually Human Capital Consulting, where I still use my psychology background every day when advising clients to transform their organizations.
Even though my path changed, none of the steps I took were wasted — they helped me figure out what fit me better. So if you end up not liking what you study or where you go, the next step is not to panic — it’s to learn from that feeling and make an adjustment. You can change majors, explore other programs, talk to advisors, look into transferring, or try internships that expose you to different kinds of work. Your first choice will not be your final choice!
I was also a first generation college student, and I know that being the first in your family can make these decisions feel even heavier. When you don’t have people around you who have already gone through this process, it can feel like you have to get every decision exactly right. But you don’t. What matters most is staying curious, paying attention to what genuinely interests you, and giving yourself permission to change direction when something no longer feels right.
One thing that can help is treating classes, internships, and school clubs as ways to test things out. Sometimes you learn what you love, and sometimes you learn what you don’t — both are useful. And the truth is, there may be more than one field that fits you well.
I know that from experience. In college, I majored in Psychology and Neuroscience because I wanted to become a clinical psychologist. But after trying an HR/recruiting internship during my senior year, I realized I loved working in a corporate environment instead. That led me to pursue Organizational Psychology and eventually Human Capital Consulting, where I still use my psychology background every day when advising clients to transform their organizations.
Even though my path changed, none of the steps I took were wasted — they helped me figure out what fit me better. So if you end up not liking what you study or where you go, the next step is not to panic — it’s to learn from that feeling and make an adjustment. You can change majors, explore other programs, talk to advisors, look into transferring, or try internships that expose you to different kinds of work. Your first choice will not be your final choice!
Olivia Tran
Consulting
1
Answer
Madison, Wisconsin
Updated
Olivia’s Answer
Hi Kaylee!
Just to piggy back Victor's answer which was already so great - I was one of the students that switch majors! I switched majors second semester of my sophomore year! I came into Saint Louis University as a Communication Major and I switched to Business-Marketing. At SLU, these majors were part of different schools so not only did I have to switch majors, but I had to transfer schools completely!
Congratulations on being a First Gen College Student! I know your parents are so proud! :)
Like Victor said, don't feel immensely pressured to have everything figured out. Your first couple of years can be spent focusing on your Gen Eds. No matter your major, your Gen Eds will be applicable regardless the path you decide to take! In addition to talking to your advisor, your college will likely have a career dashboard that will have job opportunities, shadowing, or internships that I highly recommend that you take advantage of! This will help you tap into a new network of professionals that can help you explore what you are interested in! I would take advantage of that when you start your first year to find what you enjoy doing!
Just to piggy back Victor's answer which was already so great - I was one of the students that switch majors! I switched majors second semester of my sophomore year! I came into Saint Louis University as a Communication Major and I switched to Business-Marketing. At SLU, these majors were part of different schools so not only did I have to switch majors, but I had to transfer schools completely!
Congratulations on being a First Gen College Student! I know your parents are so proud! :)
Like Victor said, don't feel immensely pressured to have everything figured out. Your first couple of years can be spent focusing on your Gen Eds. No matter your major, your Gen Eds will be applicable regardless the path you decide to take! In addition to talking to your advisor, your college will likely have a career dashboard that will have job opportunities, shadowing, or internships that I highly recommend that you take advantage of! This will help you tap into a new network of professionals that can help you explore what you are interested in! I would take advantage of that when you start your first year to find what you enjoy doing!
Benjamin Pence, PMP
Consulting
6
Answers
Denver, Colorado
Updated
Benjamin’s Answer
You are asking two questions here, but my answer is similar for both.
1) What if I don't like my college -- easy... figure out why you don't like it, and see what you can do to change that. For example, if you don't like it because you aren't interested in the classes you're taking, then take different classes. If you like the type of classes but don't like the school or the professors, then maybe explore transferring. People change their minds all the time.... it's okay to want to explore and try to find something you may like better, but it's also important to trust your instinct... you picked your school for a reason, you picked your major for a reason etc.
2) What if I don't like my job -- same thing... figure out why you don't like it, and see what you can do to change that. If you like your company but don't love what you're doing, then see if you can find a new role internally. If you like your industry but not your company, then try find a new job at a similar company within the same industry.
Figuring out the WHY you don't like something is the first step to knowing what to change.
1) What if I don't like my college -- easy... figure out why you don't like it, and see what you can do to change that. For example, if you don't like it because you aren't interested in the classes you're taking, then take different classes. If you like the type of classes but don't like the school or the professors, then maybe explore transferring. People change their minds all the time.... it's okay to want to explore and try to find something you may like better, but it's also important to trust your instinct... you picked your school for a reason, you picked your major for a reason etc.
2) What if I don't like my job -- same thing... figure out why you don't like it, and see what you can do to change that. If you like your company but don't love what you're doing, then see if you can find a new role internally. If you like your industry but not your company, then try find a new job at a similar company within the same industry.
Figuring out the WHY you don't like something is the first step to knowing what to change.
Sara Meadow
Management Consultant
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Sara’s Answer
Congrats on being the first in your family to go to college! That is a HUGE accomplishment!!
My biggest piece of advice would be to talk to your peers and older students you admire. One of the most challenging parts of college is navigating all the different opportunities open to you. One of the best ways to address this issue to talk to older students and hear about their paths to getting internships and figuring out what career opportunities are out there.
Spend a few days brainstorming about what majors / career paths sound interesting to you. Then, through professional clubs or friends or other resources, try to seek out older students who have those majors or gotten internships in areas you are interested in. Then ask them if you can ask them a few questions about their major / paths. Most people are really eager to help mentor others and will be happy to help. Ask them what they learned and what helped guide their decisions from their freshman year to where they are today. Repeat these 5-7 times with different students with different majors / career paths and you'll learn so much!!
I think this is one of the biggest obstacles for students who are first gen coming in - many students have their parents / siblings to look to see different career paths and don't have to seek out new information. But by reaching out and chatting with older students, you'll be able to learn a ton. Best of luck to you!! :)
My biggest piece of advice would be to talk to your peers and older students you admire. One of the most challenging parts of college is navigating all the different opportunities open to you. One of the best ways to address this issue to talk to older students and hear about their paths to getting internships and figuring out what career opportunities are out there.
Spend a few days brainstorming about what majors / career paths sound interesting to you. Then, through professional clubs or friends or other resources, try to seek out older students who have those majors or gotten internships in areas you are interested in. Then ask them if you can ask them a few questions about their major / paths. Most people are really eager to help mentor others and will be happy to help. Ask them what they learned and what helped guide their decisions from their freshman year to where they are today. Repeat these 5-7 times with different students with different majors / career paths and you'll learn so much!!
I think this is one of the biggest obstacles for students who are first gen coming in - many students have their parents / siblings to look to see different career paths and don't have to seek out new information. But by reaching out and chatting with older students, you'll be able to learn a ton. Best of luck to you!! :)
Taylor Meadows
Marketing
6
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Taylor’s Answer
Hi Kaylee!
Congrats on your acceptance into college, that is truly something that deserves to be celebrated!
I know EXACTLY how you're feeling though as I felt this exact same way going into college. I think there is a lot of pressure we put on ourselves in "making the right choice" but you have to remember that it doesn't have to be "your forever." If you get to college and it doesn't feel like the best fit, there are hundreds of other colleges that would be lucky to have you.
Take this time to ask so many questions. Reach out to people on LinkedIn, talk to your advisors, family, friends, etc - the more people you are able to engage with, it might uncover what it is you really want to do so you don't make the "wrong decision." And if you do, it is never too late to pivot your choice in major.
One thing I've learned, is companies are really just looking for someone that is educated and worked hard to get a degree. I have a friend that got a degree in psychology and now works in sales, you're not bound to your degree, even though it can feel like it. Just do something that really fulfills you and that "doesn't feel like work."
Overall, that feeling really might not go away. I still feel this way - "did I make the right career choice," but its given me the life I live now which I love! Don't put too much pressure on yourself, you're already doing the right things by asking these questions, just don't forget to have fun in between :)
Congrats on your acceptance into college, that is truly something that deserves to be celebrated!
I know EXACTLY how you're feeling though as I felt this exact same way going into college. I think there is a lot of pressure we put on ourselves in "making the right choice" but you have to remember that it doesn't have to be "your forever." If you get to college and it doesn't feel like the best fit, there are hundreds of other colleges that would be lucky to have you.
Take this time to ask so many questions. Reach out to people on LinkedIn, talk to your advisors, family, friends, etc - the more people you are able to engage with, it might uncover what it is you really want to do so you don't make the "wrong decision." And if you do, it is never too late to pivot your choice in major.
One thing I've learned, is companies are really just looking for someone that is educated and worked hard to get a degree. I have a friend that got a degree in psychology and now works in sales, you're not bound to your degree, even though it can feel like it. Just do something that really fulfills you and that "doesn't feel like work."
Overall, that feeling really might not go away. I still feel this way - "did I make the right career choice," but its given me the life I live now which I love! Don't put too much pressure on yourself, you're already doing the right things by asking these questions, just don't forget to have fun in between :)
Jackie Hakimian
Tax Consulting
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Jackie’s Answer
It's normal to think about changing jobs if you're unhappy in a new position. However, it's wise to stay for at least a couple of years to see if it gets better. Switching jobs too often can look bad on your resume, so keep that in mind.
Rishi Patel, MBA, MPH, MS
Consulting
5
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Rishi’s Answer
Hey Kaylee,
Congratulations on being the first in your family to go to college! That's a big achievement. It's normal to feel a bit overwhelmed or unsure, but remember, that's all part of the journey.
College is a time to discover who you are, what you enjoy, and where you want to go in life. You'll learn a lot about yourself and may even change your mind about your plans, and that's perfectly okay. You'll have the chance to explore different classes and join fun activities and groups, which will help you make decisions about your major and career.
While it's good to think about your future career, spend the first couple of years exploring different options to see what fits you best. Choose courses and activities that align with your interests and goals.
If you choose a school and later find it doesn't feel right, remember you can always change. Many students switch schools, and that's fine. You'll know when a school feels like the right place for you. Visit as many campuses as you can before deciding, and make sure to see a school in person before committing. This will help you feel more confident in your choice.
Congratulations on being the first in your family to go to college! That's a big achievement. It's normal to feel a bit overwhelmed or unsure, but remember, that's all part of the journey.
College is a time to discover who you are, what you enjoy, and where you want to go in life. You'll learn a lot about yourself and may even change your mind about your plans, and that's perfectly okay. You'll have the chance to explore different classes and join fun activities and groups, which will help you make decisions about your major and career.
While it's good to think about your future career, spend the first couple of years exploring different options to see what fits you best. Choose courses and activities that align with your interests and goals.
If you choose a school and later find it doesn't feel right, remember you can always change. Many students switch schools, and that's fine. You'll know when a school feels like the right place for you. Visit as many campuses as you can before deciding, and make sure to see a school in person before committing. This will help you feel more confident in your choice.
Courtney Kaplan
Consultant
2
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Courtney’s Answer
This is a very natural fear when you're facing a big decision about the direction of your life! It can be especially challenging when others in your family have not had this experience, so you're in the right place for this advice! I personally pursued a degree in music education and taught music for 5 years. I then changed careers and pursued an MBA (2 more years of education) which opened up a whole new career for me in management consulting. Not only do I make more money, but I am also much happier! A great framework for finding the right career fit is finding 1) what you're good at; 2) what you can be paid for; 3) what you love; and 4) what the world needs.
You don't have to have everything figured out right now. A little bit of research, self-reflection, and experimentation can take you far. If you don't know what you're good at or what you love, pay attention to activities you do now that you excel at or being you joy, and find careers that use those skills or allow you to do similar things throughout your day. Best of luck to you and remember you can always change your mind! Keep trying your best and moving forward.
You don't have to have everything figured out right now. A little bit of research, self-reflection, and experimentation can take you far. If you don't know what you're good at or what you love, pay attention to activities you do now that you excel at or being you joy, and find careers that use those skills or allow you to do similar things throughout your day. Best of luck to you and remember you can always change your mind! Keep trying your best and moving forward.
Winifred Igbokwe, FSA
Life Insurance Actuary Consultant
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Winifred’s Answer
I completely understand the worry about making the wrong choice, especially when you're the first in your family to go to college. You're doing an incredible job by taking this step to create a better future for your family. Whenever you feel unsure, remember to do two things: first, be kind to yourself and trust your instincts. You've worked hard to reach this point, and it will pay off. Second, seek advice from teachers or peers who have more experience in college. It's perfectly fine to ask for help; everyone learns from others who have been through it. You're going to do great!
Anshita Sayal
5
Answers
Updated
Anshita’s Answer
Go ahead and make a decision based on what you like right now. Your interests might change as you grow or as the job market shifts, and that's perfectly fine! Change happens all the time, and people are really good at adjusting. We can easily switch directions and try new things when needed. So, don't stress too much about the future. Do what you enjoy, and remember, you have plenty of time to adapt as you go.
Deepti S
Strategy and Transformation
11
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Deepti’s Answer
Totally normal!!! Don't like your major? Switch it. Most people do. A degree in something you're curious about beats grinding through something you hate every time.
Don't like your college? Transfer. It's an option, not a failure.
You are not supposed to have it all figured out at 18. Most adults are still figuring it out too. Just stay curious, try things, and pay attention to what energizes you vs. drains you. Your path will change regardless, that's not a problem, that's just how careers actually work.
Don't like your college? Transfer. It's an option, not a failure.
You are not supposed to have it all figured out at 18. Most adults are still figuring it out too. Just stay curious, try things, and pay attention to what energizes you vs. drains you. Your path will change regardless, that's not a problem, that's just how careers actually work.
Will Stearns
Consultant
1
Answer
New York, New York
Updated
Will’s Answer
Hi Kaylee, great question. While having career goals is helpful when selecting colleges, it is by no means a requirement. Most schools don't require students to declare their major until after their freshman or sophomore years. As long as you continue to excel at what you are currently doing, future employers will take notice. My advice would be to explore your interests during your early college career, and narrow down your career prospects as time goes on. But remember to work hard and strive to excel at what's in front of you. If you have a proven track record as a high performer, switching majors, careers, or colleges, will not be difficult or set you back.
Nancy Chen
1
Answer
Updated
Nancy’s Answer
Hello Victor!
Please always remember if you end up not liking your major or your college, that DOES NOT mean you made a terrible choice. A lot of people change majors (I did too!), transfer schools, or discover their real interests after they start college. I would recommend to choose a school and program that gives you flexibility, like options to switch majors, explore different classes, and use support services from school such as career development office. I understand this feels overwhelming, but you do not need to have your whole life figured out right now. What matters most is picking a path that gives you room to grow, ask questions, and adjust if needed.
Please always remember if you end up not liking your major or your college, that DOES NOT mean you made a terrible choice. A lot of people change majors (I did too!), transfer schools, or discover their real interests after they start college. I would recommend to choose a school and program that gives you flexibility, like options to switch majors, explore different classes, and use support services from school such as career development office. I understand this feels overwhelming, but you do not need to have your whole life figured out right now. What matters most is picking a path that gives you room to grow, ask questions, and adjust if needed.
Daniel Azrak
Cyber Security
11
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Daniel’s Answer
I always had that concern. I studied finance and management in college. Guess what I am doing now? I work in cyber security ;). Nothing to do with what I studied. There are jobs that I did not like along the way and I did my best to change into a direction that I found interesting. That is all you can do in life in the end is try to chase something interesting. The grass is sometimes greener and sometimes it is not...You will not know until you are there.
So my advice is to try and follow what you find interesting and do your best to experience it first hand. You can do this already by finding people in the profession to talk to or finding an internship or ask for a day in the life shadowing someone. There are ways to start experiencing this first hand to see if your heading in the right direction.
However, life is full of possibilities and you need to be flexible. Be ready to pivot, try something new, and do not get discouraged. Most importantly, do not stress so much and be patient with yourself. You will figure it out.
So my advice is to try and follow what you find interesting and do your best to experience it first hand. You can do this already by finding people in the profession to talk to or finding an internship or ask for a day in the life shadowing someone. There are ways to start experiencing this first hand to see if your heading in the right direction.
However, life is full of possibilities and you need to be flexible. Be ready to pivot, try something new, and do not get discouraged. Most importantly, do not stress so much and be patient with yourself. You will figure it out.
Matthew Hall
7
Answers
Monroe, Michigan
Updated
Matthew’s Answer
If you're not happy with your major or college, don't worry—there are steps you can take to make a change. Think about whether you should switch majors at your current school, move to a different college, or use the skills you've learned so far to try a new career.
Tania Ivy Aggarwal, CSM
Enterprise Implementation and Adoption Lead
3
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Tania Ivy’s Answer
That's a really thoughtful question, and it's one that many adults still worry about. The good news is that you're asking it now, which means you're already thinking carefully about your future.
First, I want you to know that very few people have a perfectly straight path from middle school to college to career. Many successful people change majors, switch careers, transfer colleges or discover new interests along the way. Your first decision does not have to be your final decision.
At the same time, I'd encourage you not to make changes too quickly. Sometimes something feels difficult because it's new, challenging, or uncomfortable - not because it's wrong for you. If we change direction every time things get hard, we can look back years later and realize we've never stayed with anything long enough to discover whether we could succeed at it.
Before making a big change, ask yourself: "Why do I want to change?"
The answer matters.
- If you're changing because you've learned more about yourself and discovered a different passion, that's worth exploring.
- If you're changing because of financial concerns, family responsibilities, or being the first in your family to navigate college, there may be resources, scholarships, mentors, or alternative paths that can help.
- If you're changing because something is difficult or you're struggling, it may be worth giving yourself more time and support before deciding it's not for you.
- If you're changing because the environment isn't a good fit, there may be ways to transfer schools or find a different program while still pursuing the same goal.
As someone who has been through different stages of life and career, I've learned that sometimes the best answer isn't changing or staying- it's finding a compromise. You may not love every class, every assignment, or every part of a job, but if the overall direction still aligns with your goals, it can be worth seeing it through.
Since you're the fist person in your family to go to college, you're doing something brave. You may not have parents, siblings, or relatives who can explain every step of applications, financial aid, scholarships, and choosing a major. That can feel overwhelming. But remember that counselors, teachers, mentors, and even people you meet along the way can help fit that gap.
One thing I've noticed is that people who succeed aren't necessarily the ones who had everything figured out at 13 or even 18. They're the ones who stay curious, ask questions, seek advice, work hard, and make thoughtful adjustments when needed.
So don't put pressure on yourself to make the perfect decision. Make the best decision you can with the information you have today. Give it an honest effort. Learn from the experience. If it truly doesn't feel right after you've given it a fair chance, then make a thoughtful change, not because you're giving up, but because you've learned something valuable about yourself. That's not failure. That's growth. :)
First, I want you to know that very few people have a perfectly straight path from middle school to college to career. Many successful people change majors, switch careers, transfer colleges or discover new interests along the way. Your first decision does not have to be your final decision.
At the same time, I'd encourage you not to make changes too quickly. Sometimes something feels difficult because it's new, challenging, or uncomfortable - not because it's wrong for you. If we change direction every time things get hard, we can look back years later and realize we've never stayed with anything long enough to discover whether we could succeed at it.
Before making a big change, ask yourself: "Why do I want to change?"
The answer matters.
- If you're changing because you've learned more about yourself and discovered a different passion, that's worth exploring.
- If you're changing because of financial concerns, family responsibilities, or being the first in your family to navigate college, there may be resources, scholarships, mentors, or alternative paths that can help.
- If you're changing because something is difficult or you're struggling, it may be worth giving yourself more time and support before deciding it's not for you.
- If you're changing because the environment isn't a good fit, there may be ways to transfer schools or find a different program while still pursuing the same goal.
As someone who has been through different stages of life and career, I've learned that sometimes the best answer isn't changing or staying- it's finding a compromise. You may not love every class, every assignment, or every part of a job, but if the overall direction still aligns with your goals, it can be worth seeing it through.
Since you're the fist person in your family to go to college, you're doing something brave. You may not have parents, siblings, or relatives who can explain every step of applications, financial aid, scholarships, and choosing a major. That can feel overwhelming. But remember that counselors, teachers, mentors, and even people you meet along the way can help fit that gap.
One thing I've noticed is that people who succeed aren't necessarily the ones who had everything figured out at 13 or even 18. They're the ones who stay curious, ask questions, seek advice, work hard, and make thoughtful adjustments when needed.
So don't put pressure on yourself to make the perfect decision. Make the best decision you can with the information you have today. Give it an honest effort. Learn from the experience. If it truly doesn't feel right after you've given it a fair chance, then make a thoughtful change, not because you're giving up, but because you've learned something valuable about yourself. That's not failure. That's growth. :)
Dana Maloof
3
Answers
Updated
Dana’s Answer
I am a big proponent of the mindset “bloom where you are planted.” Despite popular belief and what social media may portray most people do not love every choice they make around college and careers. It is wildly common to pivot careers, and each step in your journey will have something you can take with you to the next! Congrats on this big achievement!
Sandra Etuk
Consultant
3
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Sandra’s Answer
Hi! Congratulations on your college acceptance! You'll see once you arrive on campus that there are many different paths, and the only one that is "wrong" is the one that doesn't make you happy. Trying to force a major/career path just because it sounds good or looks good on paper will be a choice that you may regret. There are so many jobs that you don't even know exist! Take advantage of your school's alumni association and reach out to past graduates on Linkedin. They will be happy to talk to you and can share more about what their average day looks like in their career. Try and dissect things that you like about your hobbies - do you like problem solving? Do you like thinking creatively? That can help you guide your career search.
Another thing - you are never fixed to one decision. While I'm certain you will enjoy your college, remember that you always have options. It is very possible to transfer colleges if you are unhappy. You are in control of your destiny.
Another thing - you are never fixed to one decision. While I'm certain you will enjoy your college, remember that you always have options. It is very possible to transfer colleges if you are unhappy. You are in control of your destiny.
Victor R
Business Transformation Director
11
Answers
Millbury, Massachusetts
Updated
Victor’s Answer
Hi Kaylee!
First, I want to say congratulations. Being the first person in your family to go to college is a massive, incredible accomplishment. It is also completely normal that it feels overwhelming. You are navigating a complicated system without a map, so please give yourself a lot of grace! The fear of making the "wrong" decision and being stuck forever is one of the most common worries students have, but I want to let you in on a big secret: you are never permanently stuck.
Did you know that nearly a third of all college students change their major at least once? Many change it two or three times! Furthermore, thousands of students transfer to different colleges every single year because their first choice wasn't the right fit. The college system is actually built to allow for changes. If you get to a school or start studying a major and realize it is not for you, you pivot. It happens every single day.
Instead of feeling pressured to pick the "perfect" career right now before you even step on campus, treat your first year of college as an exploration phase.
*You can declare an "Undeclared" or "Exploratory" major: Many colleges have a specific program just for students who haven't picked a major yet. This connects you with academic advisors whose specific job is to help you figure out what you like and what you are good at.
*You should focus on your General Education (Gen Ed) classes first: Almost every college degree requires basic math, English, science, and humanities courses. By focusing heavily on these during your first year, you are making progress toward graduation and earning credits without locking yourself into a specific major yet.
*You can take one "wildcard" class a semester: Use your elective credits to test the waters! If you think you might like psychology, take an Intro to Psychology class. If you think business sounds cool, take a basic marketing class. Trying things out is the best way to see if they fit.
Here are some fantastic, free tools you can use right now to start figuring out what careers actually interest you, as well as finding scholarships as a first-generation student:
O*NET OnLine's Interest Profiler: You can take this free, quick quiz sponsored by the US government. It asks you what kinds of tasks you enjoy and matches you with real-world careers, showing you exactly what those jobs pay and what degrees they require.
Roadtrip Nation: You can watch an incredible free documentary series and use their interactive tools to explore careers based on your core interests and passions. It shows how real people found their unique paths—many of whom changed their minds along the way!
BigFuture by College Board: You can use this free tool to search for scholarships specifically meant for first-generation college students, and it also has a highly visual career exploration section to help you browse different industries.
Your College Career Center: Once you are enrolled, you can (and absolutely should!) visit your college's career center. They offer free personality tests, career counseling, and resume help. You do not have to wait until you are a senior to use them!
First, I want to say congratulations. Being the first person in your family to go to college is a massive, incredible accomplishment. It is also completely normal that it feels overwhelming. You are navigating a complicated system without a map, so please give yourself a lot of grace! The fear of making the "wrong" decision and being stuck forever is one of the most common worries students have, but I want to let you in on a big secret: you are never permanently stuck.
Did you know that nearly a third of all college students change their major at least once? Many change it two or three times! Furthermore, thousands of students transfer to different colleges every single year because their first choice wasn't the right fit. The college system is actually built to allow for changes. If you get to a school or start studying a major and realize it is not for you, you pivot. It happens every single day.
Instead of feeling pressured to pick the "perfect" career right now before you even step on campus, treat your first year of college as an exploration phase.
*You can declare an "Undeclared" or "Exploratory" major: Many colleges have a specific program just for students who haven't picked a major yet. This connects you with academic advisors whose specific job is to help you figure out what you like and what you are good at.
*You should focus on your General Education (Gen Ed) classes first: Almost every college degree requires basic math, English, science, and humanities courses. By focusing heavily on these during your first year, you are making progress toward graduation and earning credits without locking yourself into a specific major yet.
*You can take one "wildcard" class a semester: Use your elective credits to test the waters! If you think you might like psychology, take an Intro to Psychology class. If you think business sounds cool, take a basic marketing class. Trying things out is the best way to see if they fit.
Here are some fantastic, free tools you can use right now to start figuring out what careers actually interest you, as well as finding scholarships as a first-generation student:
Victor recommends the following next steps: