Exploring Whether College is the Right Path for Me
I’m currently a sophomore, with a few years left before I finish high school, but I’ve been thinking about whether college might be the right choice for me.
Lately, I’ve been reflecting on my experience in my APUSH (AP US History) class. I genuinely enjoy my teacher, but I’m struggling with the class’s fast pace and the way the assignments are structured. Sometimes, my teacher gets bogged down in specific topics, which makes it tough for me to grasp the broader concepts.
Additionally, I find the subject matter less engaging, which could also be a factor in my difficulties. I have an upcoming essay where I need to write from the perspective of a historical figure from the Jacksonian Era (I chose John Calhoun), but the questions I need to address don’t align well with the book material, leaving me feeling confused.
In contrast, I’m taking a dual-enrollment psychology class that I thoroughly enjoy. The hands-on activities and the engaging content make it a lot more fun and stimulating for me.
I also suspect I might have some issues with attention, possibly ADHD, since I easily get distracted—like right now as I’m supposed to be focusing on my essay!
Given my current situation, I’m unsure about my next steps. I would appreciate any insights or advice anyone might have.
It’s great that you’re thinking ahead about your educational pathway, especially while you’re still in high school. It sounds like you’re evaluating your academic experiences and preferences, which is valuable as you consider college.
Firstly, don’t stress too much about feeling uncertain right now. It’s completely normal for students to question their fit for college, especially when you’re navigating challenging classes. The differences you’re experiencing between your APUSH class and your Dual-Psych class can offer some insight into what you might enjoy in the future.
Since you find the Dual-Psych class more engaging, it might be worth exploring what interests you about psychology or other subjects that involve hands-on learning or real-world applications. This could help guide your decisions about potential majors or areas of study in college.
Regarding your struggles with attention, keep in mind that college offers more flexible learning environments. There are resources available—like tutoring, study groups, and accommodations—that can support you. If you think you might have ADHD, it could be helpful to talk to a counselor or a trusted teacher about that. They can provide insights or suggest strategies that may help you stay focused.
As you move through your remaining years of high school, keep exploring different subjects and extracurricular activities. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help when you need it, whether it’s from teachers, peers, or counselors. College can be a fantastic opportunity if you find a path that resonates with you, but remember, it’s not the only route to success. There are many ways to pursue your passions and interests after high school, so stay curious and open to all the possibilities!