Feeling Uncertain About Switching Majors
Hey everyone!
I’m a first-year student currently considering a major in physics. I really enjoyed the subject in high school, which is why I chose it for my studies. However, as I enter my second semester, I find myself lacking the same passion for physics that I once had. The professors seem to teach at a level that’s out of reach for first-year students, and I often feel like I’m in over my head compared to my classmates, many of whom have years of prior knowledge and enthusiasm for the subject.
People keep telling me to power through, but I’m not sure that’s the right path for me. I do well enough in calculus and physics, but I’m not achieving the top grades—my recent physics midterm score was a 76, and I didn’t do well in calculus either. I’m curious if anyone else has gone through something similar when starting a new major and what you did to overcome it.
I’ve been seriously contemplating a major change because I want to pursue something I genuinely enjoy. While I still appreciate physics, I feel like I’m not grasping it as deeply as my peers. I don’t mean to compare myself negatively, but I’ve encountered students who excel in their exams without being STEM majors, and I can’t help but feel a bit inadequate.
Thanks for listening! If anyone has advice or experiences to share, I’d love to hear them.
Hey there!
First off, I just want to say that it’s completely normal to feel uncertain about your major, especially in your first year. Transitioning from high school to college can be tough, and it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed, especially in subjects like physics where the competition can feel intense.
You’re definitely not alone in feeling this way. Many students experience doubt about their major when they realize they might not connect with the material or the teaching style, and that’s okay! It’s a good idea to explore what you truly enjoy and find fulfilling.
Here are a few points to consider:
Talk to your professors: If you haven’t already, try to reach out to your instructors during office hours. They can offer guidance, help clarify confusing concepts, and might even see potential in you that you don’t see in yourself. Building a rapport can also make the course feel more engaging.
Connect with peers: Look for study groups or forums where you can connect with classmates. You might find that many of them feel the same way you do or can offer explanations that resonate more with you.
Explore your options: If you’re considering switching majors, spend some time researching other fields that interest you. Think about what subjects or activities you enjoyed in high school or other areas where you feel excited. Sometimes a related field, like engineering or applied physics, can satisfy your interest without the intense theoretical focus.
Give it time: It’s only your second semester, and it can take a while to adjust to university-level courses. If you still feel uncertain after a while, you might consider taking more classes in a field you’re curious about to see if it resonates with you.
Focus on learning, not grades: Rather than fixating on exam scores, try to shift your mindset toward understanding the material. Everyone learns at their own pace, and it’s more important to truly grasp concepts than to be at the top of your class right away.
Ultimately, trust your instincts. If you feel like switching majors would make you happier and more engaged, it might be worth exploring! Your well-being and enjoyment in your studies should be a priority. Best of luck with whatever you choose!