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No passion for what I'm studying and just want to graduate?

I am currently a sophomore at Virginia Tech and have been on the neuroscience track for the past 2 years and was set on pre-med. I've taken the intro science courses and have been struggling with motivation and passion for the subjects. I had to resign this semester due to overloading my schedule which I know will impact how future employers look at me. I have never branched out in other fields like tech and really don't want to continue because I am not sure I can do well enough to graduate. At this point I am just looking for a major that will allow me to graduate in two years and the only one is Public Health, but again I do not have a passion for anything and no strong skills in different subjects. I really do not know what to do.

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Patrice’s Answer

Are you in a position to take a year off from school and try some other things (internships, join the Peace Corp, etc.) to try out some different jobs in order to see if they motivate you? Maybe if you can do something that is completely different than what you are doing now it will jump start some inspiration for you.

Are there any hobbies that you enjoy doing that might inspire or energize you?

Is there a guidance counselor, academic advisor, or similar function offered by your school that could offer you advice on potential alternate career paths that might be compatible with your interests?
Thank you comment icon I was sure that pre-med was something I wanted to do and I only focused on that so I have no hobbies that truly make me happy. My only interest at the moment is go get a degree and be able to provide for myself and start paying back my loans. Noor
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Ana’s Answer

Concentrate on finishing your degree. Build relationships with your professors, advisors, and past students to gain insights about various career paths tied to your major, even if you don't envision yourself in that area for the long haul. Participate in career fairs and information sessions to uncover potential opportunities. Remember, not all people have a burning passion. Think about your broad interests and pastimes. Don't sit idle, waiting for a passion to ignite. Pinpoint your strengths, both in skills and character traits. What comes naturally to you? Seek out careers that will utilize these strengths.
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Malisa’s Answer

Hi Noor – Thank you for sharing this challenge you are experiencing right now. I would suggest first, listing out all of the things that are worrying you. Then understand you have control over all of them. If you are seeking a way that can help you discover things you are interested in, I would suggest looking into Myers Briggs survey to help support you in finding things you like. However, it doesn’t always take a test to help you find direction. What makes you smile? What helps you feel better when you do it? What are things that have always held an interest for you?
Based on your post I need to ask, are you really lacking passion or are you overwhelmed and need to cut back? The reality is you are on your own timetable and track. Don’t worry about future employers focus on the here and now. What is the one next step you can take to support yourself and then your career.
Thank you comment icon I know it is lacking passion. I felt like I pushed myself to go into the sciences because of an academy program I attended during my last two years of high school. I enjoyed the program, but I don't think my interests in neuroscience were because I really enjoyed it. I also have never really had hobbies growing up I just focused on school no sports or talents. Noor
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Michelle’s Answer

Hello, Noor !

So, you are on a break now and this will give you some time to think things over and maybe come up with a plan for your Bachelors Degree. I would like to say that taking breaks from college, starting late or early, and even taking one or two courses a semester part time is never asked by employers. I really would say not to worry about your college timeline when it comes to being qualified for a job.

Since you are on a break this semester, it may be a good idea to not force yourself back to school until you are sure of your career choice. There is no specific time that you'd have to know and hopefully the feelings about it will ease as you get life experiences and inspiration. It doesn't happen the same way or time for everyone. Since your inquiry seems to say that you are not interested in any science or medical career, now is your chance to do what you feel is best for you. That could mean work full time or part time for a while. Also, maybe reading different major programs at different colleges would help spark a new found interest in something. But don't let it get you down. You should take things in your own time for your inspiration to come.

Even though you do not have any self-recognized hobbies and never have, we all have things that we enjoy and that make us happy. Do you ever take photographs of yourself and family and friends ? Photography is a fun hobby. Do you cook ? Do you like fashion and makeup ? Social issues ? Perhaps this is the perfect time to venture out and gain new experiences. Think about it. We are usually most inspired through the action of doing things, learning new things and being open minded to things we never thought we'd ever be involved in.

Consider some low key activities like miniature golf, horseback riding, Zumba exercise or yoga. Think about your personal barriers because that is key in figuring out what is holding you back, but remember, you don't need to decide what to do right now. Give it time.

No matter what you decide, I wish you all the best !
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