6 answers
Sophia
Student
Sedona, Arizona
1
Question
Asked
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What is the best course to study in college ?
Hi, I'm 14 years old grade 10th student. I need advice on what to study in college
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6 answers
Karin P.
Lecturer
378
Answers
Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Sophia,
There is no "best" course that works for everyone. First of all, everybody's brain is wired differently. There is no point in choosing e.g. engineering if you hate math and science, no matter how "good" the course is. Second, the definition of "good" or "best" also varies. For some people it means a lot of money, for others it means job security, for still others it means making a difference and helping people, or maybe it's being creative or having a lot of flexibility.
You need to look at your interests and passions, your skills and talents, your values and the kind of work you would like to do for many years. Other considerations are how long you would want to be in school, possibly family obligations, and how you can finance your education.
If you look around you, you see lots of people doing jobs. Would you be interested in any of those jobs, e.g. doctor, teacher, bus driver, etc. Look at friends and family. Find out what they work and get more information about their jobs. You can also look at objects. When you see an airplane or a car or a television program, ask yourself what all is involved in making those things. What kind of profession would you have to learn to be involved in building airplanes, or flying airplanes?
You can also read up on different jobs, e.g. on the job site Indeed. YouTube has lots of videos entitled "a day in the life of.....". Or you can start on the opposite end: look at some university websites, what departments they have and what majors they offer. Look at the many degree options, and if something interests you, find out what it entails.
I hope this helps, and best of luck!
KP
There is no "best" course that works for everyone. First of all, everybody's brain is wired differently. There is no point in choosing e.g. engineering if you hate math and science, no matter how "good" the course is. Second, the definition of "good" or "best" also varies. For some people it means a lot of money, for others it means job security, for still others it means making a difference and helping people, or maybe it's being creative or having a lot of flexibility.
You need to look at your interests and passions, your skills and talents, your values and the kind of work you would like to do for many years. Other considerations are how long you would want to be in school, possibly family obligations, and how you can finance your education.
If you look around you, you see lots of people doing jobs. Would you be interested in any of those jobs, e.g. doctor, teacher, bus driver, etc. Look at friends and family. Find out what they work and get more information about their jobs. You can also look at objects. When you see an airplane or a car or a television program, ask yourself what all is involved in making those things. What kind of profession would you have to learn to be involved in building airplanes, or flying airplanes?
You can also read up on different jobs, e.g. on the job site Indeed. YouTube has lots of videos entitled "a day in the life of.....". Or you can start on the opposite end: look at some university websites, what departments they have and what majors they offer. Look at the many degree options, and if something interests you, find out what it entails.
I hope this helps, and best of luck!
KP
Connor Adams
Technology Consultant
23
Answers
Provo, Utah
Updated
Connor’s Answer
Hi Sophia,
I agree with all the previous answers. I do think that it is important to take a few courses that typically are not offered in High School such as personal finance and extracurricular classes (credit eligible) that you have always wanted to try (golf, rock climbing, swimming, etc), and language classes. Aside from my major I did choose a lot of classes that were interesting to me and I chose a minor that would feed my curiosity and interests.
Goodluck!
I agree with all the previous answers. I do think that it is important to take a few courses that typically are not offered in High School such as personal finance and extracurricular classes (credit eligible) that you have always wanted to try (golf, rock climbing, swimming, etc), and language classes. Aside from my major I did choose a lot of classes that were interesting to me and I chose a minor that would feed my curiosity and interests.
Goodluck!
Maimona Sharaf
Analyst
4
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Maimona’s Answer
The ideal academic path can vary greatly from person to person. The key is to identify what truly ignites your passion. Whether your interests lie in medical studies, engineering, IT, HR, or a myriad of other fields, there's a world of choices available to you. Once you've pinpointed your passion, you can then explore the courses related to that field. If you're uncertain, don't hesitate to seek advice from a professor or academic advisor.
It's also not uncommon to select a major and then, after a semester or so, realize it's not the right fit for you. This is a situation many students find themselves in, so there's no need to worry! Start by determining whether it's a specific course you're not enjoying, or the entire discipline. If it's just one course, remember that it's only a temporary hurdle lasting around four months. However, if you find the entire discipline isn't for you, it's perfectly okay to switch to a major that better aligns with your interests and aspirations.
Moreover, remember to try some enjoyable courses into your academic journey that aren't necessarily related to your major. If you have an interest in art, why not enroll in some art classes? Or perhaps music or dance classes might be more your speed. The goal is to find pleasure in your college courses, or at least the majority of them. Best of luck on your academic journey!
It's also not uncommon to select a major and then, after a semester or so, realize it's not the right fit for you. This is a situation many students find themselves in, so there's no need to worry! Start by determining whether it's a specific course you're not enjoying, or the entire discipline. If it's just one course, remember that it's only a temporary hurdle lasting around four months. However, if you find the entire discipline isn't for you, it's perfectly okay to switch to a major that better aligns with your interests and aspirations.
Moreover, remember to try some enjoyable courses into your academic journey that aren't necessarily related to your major. If you have an interest in art, why not enroll in some art classes? Or perhaps music or dance classes might be more your speed. The goal is to find pleasure in your college courses, or at least the majority of them. Best of luck on your academic journey!
Maneet Bedi
Senior Consultant- Cyber & Strategic Risk Advisory
6
Answers
Chandigarh, India
Updated
Maneet’s Answer
College courses that ignite your curiosity are the ones you should pursue. Don't select a class just because your friends are enrolled in it; you might end up disinterested or forcing yourself to enjoy it. This could lead to confusion when it's time to choose your career. The best guidance I can offer? Follow your passion. Whether it's computer science, IT, healthcare, accounting, legal services, arts, food technology, baking, pottery, economics, aerodynamics, or anything else that catches your fancy - go for it. Discover what courses your college provides that align with your chosen field. Don't hesitate to include a few courses that pique your interest, even if they seem unrelated. For instance, while many lawyers may not consider psychology, it could be an excellent complement that sets you apart. Similarly, gaining expertise in both finance and IT could make you more distinctive and increase your chances of landing a job. Ultimately, it's all about your interests and future aspirations. Best wishes, Maneet.
Nina Xu
Recruiting Coordination Manager
6
Answers
San Ramon, California
Updated
Nina’s Answer
It's crucial to choose a field of study that captivates your interest, given that you'll be dedicating four years of your life to it. Engage in conversations with various people like your teachers, your friends' parents, or even your parents' friends. Ask them about their chosen fields of study and their reasons for choosing them. Remember, there's no precise recipe for determining what to study, and it's completely normal if you decide to switch your major once you're in college. Since you're still in high school, take advantage of this period to explore a variety of interests and hobbies. You never know, you might just stumble upon your true passion.
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Sophia
Anna Cantella
Student studying occupational therapy
14
Answers
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Updated
Anna’s Answer
Hello Sophia,
It's fantastic to hear that you're already thinking about college - that's a great step forward! As a 10th grader, it's definitely a good idea to start visiting colleges and taking an active role in your future education. It's crucial to find a place where you feel secure, content, and excited to learn.
I'm currently in my second year of college. In my first year, I wasn't sure what I wanted to study. So, I took the required general courses and explored my interests. I was drawn to health science, so I researched various jobs and specific career paths in that field. Now, I'm majoring in exercise science and planning a career as a pre-occupational therapist.
Remember, there's no such thing as a "perfect" choice. Everyone's journey is unique and everyone's career path is different. I'd also recommend taking classes that personally interest you, even if they're not directly related to your major. For instance, if you're fascinated by a particular religion, why not take a course about it? Or explore another religion that piques your curiosity.
I hope this advice is helpful. Don't forget to enjoy your high school years too!
Best,
AC
It's fantastic to hear that you're already thinking about college - that's a great step forward! As a 10th grader, it's definitely a good idea to start visiting colleges and taking an active role in your future education. It's crucial to find a place where you feel secure, content, and excited to learn.
I'm currently in my second year of college. In my first year, I wasn't sure what I wanted to study. So, I took the required general courses and explored my interests. I was drawn to health science, so I researched various jobs and specific career paths in that field. Now, I'm majoring in exercise science and planning a career as a pre-occupational therapist.
Remember, there's no such thing as a "perfect" choice. Everyone's journey is unique and everyone's career path is different. I'd also recommend taking classes that personally interest you, even if they're not directly related to your major. For instance, if you're fascinated by a particular religion, why not take a course about it? Or explore another religion that piques your curiosity.
I hope this advice is helpful. Don't forget to enjoy your high school years too!
Best,
AC