Subject: Feeling Stuck in My Degree Program — Seeking Advice
Hey everyone,
I’m currently serving in the military in a cyber role and decided to pursue a degree in computer science using tuition assistance. It seemed like a logical choice given my training. However, I’ve come to realize that I genuinely dislike it. Programming and networking aren’t for me; the only aspect I enjoy is working with hardware. Unfortunately, it’s tough to specialize in just that.
I’m about 20 credits away from completing my bachelor’s degree and plan to finish it, but I can’t shake the thought that I would feel more fulfilled pursuing a degree in something I’m passionate about, like medicine or education.
Since I haven’t paid for this degree out of pocket and still have my full GI Bill available, I’m wondering if it’s a bad idea to pursue another bachelor’s after I leave the military in December. I’ve also been looking into studying abroad, but I’ve noticed that many countries already have a surplus of IT professionals. I’m unsure if it’s worth it to push through for a Master’s in Cyber Security or something similar.
I want to make a change, but I keep hearing from my supervisors, chain of command, and family that it would be unwise to abandon a path I’m already familiar with.
I’d really appreciate an outside perspective on this situation. What do you think?
It’s completely understandable to feel uncertain about your degree program, especially when you’re not enjoying it. You’ve already invested a lot of time and effort into your current major, but it’s important to pursue something that genuinely interests you. If you’re only a few credits away from your bachelor’s in computer science and you think you can finish it while still considering future changes, that might be a pragmatic approach.
Transitioning to a new degree in something like medicine or education, particularly if you have a passion for it, could lead to a more fulfilling career. It’s not dumb at all—many people change their career paths multiple times. The skills you’ve gained in the military and through your current studies can be an asset, regardless of the degree you pursue next.
Consider taking advantage of your GI Bill to explore other fields. If you feel drawn to hardware and want to specialize in that, there may be programs available that cater specifically to your interests. Researching job markets abroad and in your areas of interest could also provide valuable insight, especially if you’re considering international education.
Ultimately, your career is your own, and the most important thing is to pursue what makes you happy and fulfilled. It might be helpful to have an open conversation with your family and supervisors about your feelings, but remember that you have to live with your choices. It’s okay to challenge the expectations of others if they don’t align with your goals and passions. Good luck with your decision!