As a second-semester junior, I’m starting to second-guess my choice of major. I’m currently studying accounting, but honestly, I feel lost. Being a first-generation college student, there’s a lot of pressure from my family to succeed and avoid the mistakes of previous generations. While I don’t dislike accounting, I find it quite tedious and uninspiring. As I dive into my major courses this year, my motivation has dwindled, and my grades are just average. Paying attention in class has become a challenge for me.
On a positive note, I’m looking forward to my upcoming internship and hoping it reignites my passion, as I’m really hesitant about switching majors or going back to school later on.
Lately, I’ve become really interested in urban planning. I just landed a job as an assistant at a real estate office and love it! Touring apartments, exploring my college town, and learning about different properties is incredibly enjoyable. Although accounting and urban planning aren’t directly related, I’m curious—are they compatible in any way? Would I need to change my major, or could I pursue a master’s in urban planning instead? I’m really open to any suggestions, and I wish I had discovered this passion earlier, as it feels like a better fit for me.
It’s completely understandable to feel this way, especially when you’re under pressure to choose a path that may not resonate with you. First off, it’s great to hear that you have found something you enjoy in urban planning and real estate. That enthusiasm is important!
To answer your question, accounting and urban planning can actually be more compatible than you might think. Many urban planning programs value a background in finance and budgeting, which are skills that an accounting major can offer. Financial analysis is often crucial in development projects, so having that accounting knowledge could be a significant asset in the urban planning field.
If you’re considering switching majors, you might want to look into urban planning programs at your school and see if they require specific undergraduate courses. Some programs do accept students from different academic backgrounds, and you could potentially take some electives in urban planning or related fields even while completing your accounting degree.
Pursuing a master’s degree in urban planning after your undergraduate degree is also a viable option. It’s common for students to transition into planning from other disciplines, and many master’s programs value diverse educational backgrounds.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to find a path that excites you. Consider talking to an academic advisor or career counselor at your school; they can offer guidance tailored to your specific situation and help you explore options that align with your passions. It’s never too late to pivot in a direction that feels right for you!