Title: Considering a Major Change – Seeking Guidance!
Hello everyone!
I’m currently a first-year psychology major, and I’m starting to rethink my choice. When I chose to study psychology right after high school, I was drawn to the idea of becoming a therapist or psychologist. However, I’ve realized that I’m not really a people person; I’m on the spectrum, and the thought of counseling others feels like it might not be the best fit for me.
I’ve discovered that I’m enjoying my statistics and biology classes far more than my humanities courses. I also have a deep love for animals and nature, which has me contemplating my options. I’m curious about majors that align with those interests. While I’m a bit hesitant about pursuing veterinary science, environmental science really sparks my interest.
Since I’m studying at LSU, I’d love to know if anyone can recommend majors or potential career paths related to these fields. I’m still figuring out what job I’d like to have after college, but I want to ensure that my time in school is enjoyable and fulfilling.
Although I sometimes struggle with memorizing complex formulas and processes in math and biology, I genuinely enjoy learning about science topics. I’ve found that I excel at grasping concepts, particularly in environmental and physical sciences, and I thrive when I’m involved in hands-on experiments and activities.
Sorry for rambling on; I’m just trying to find my direction! Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
It sounds like you’re going through an important period of self-discovery, and it’s completely normal to reevaluate your interests and career goals, especially in your first year of college. Here are a few thoughts and suggestions that may help you navigate this transition:
Explore Environmental Science: Given your interests in animals, nature, and your enjoyment of science concepts, Environmental Science could be a fantastic fit for you. It often involves hands-on projects, fieldwork, and research that align with your desire to be active in the world rather than confined to traditional classroom settings.
Consider Animal Behavior or Wildlife Biology: If you love animals but are uncertain about veterinary science, you might want to look into majors related to Animal Behavior or Wildlife Biology. These programs focus on understanding animals in their natural habitats, conservation efforts, and research, which might resonate with your interests without the need for clinical interaction.
Look into Interdisciplinary Studies: Some colleges offer interdisciplinary programs that can combine aspects of environmental science with policy, education, or sustainability. This can give you a broad understanding of how science interacts with social issues, allowing you to have a tangible impact without straying too far into sociology or psychology.
Utilize Campus Resources: LSU likely has career counseling services or academic advisors who can help you explore different majors and career options. They can provide guidance on what classes to take to explore your interests further and may even have internship opportunities or clubs related to environmental science.
Engage in Extracurricular Activities: Finding clubs or organizations related to environmental awareness or animal care can provide you with more insight into potential career paths. Look for volunteering opportunities with local wildlife organizations, conservation efforts, or even animal rescue programs.
Keep an Open Mind: Even if you’re unsure about a particular path, consider taking introductory courses in subjects like Environmental Science, Marine Biology, or Ecology to gauge where your passion truly lies. You may discover new interests or strengths you didn’t anticipate.
Trust Your Instincts: It’s great that you recognize the need to enjoy your college experience. Follow your instincts and choose a path that excites you, even if it feels uncertain right now. College is a time for exploration, and you have the opportunity to tailor your education to what genuinely interests you.
Remember, it’s okay to change your mind, and many students go through this process. Take your time to explore and enjoy the journey! Good luck!