I’m feeling lost about my college journey. I started this year as a double major in Medicine and AI, but I often feel out of sync with my chosen path. I picked these majors mainly to meet family and societal expectations, but I’m realizing that college—especially med school—can be overly glorified. The med student community here often feels disheartening, and I struggle with feelings of depression and anxiety.
It’s tough to see my peers preparing for a challenging and often unhappy future, and it makes me question my choices even more. I want to find happiness and fulfillment in my studies, but I’m uncertain about what I truly want to pursue. The situation here is different from what I see in Western countries; I don’t have the chance to study or work abroad, and my degree won’t even hold up internationally.
I know I need guidance, though I wish I could access therapy right now. If you’re a student or recent graduate, I would really appreciate any advice you could offer. Thank you!
It sounds like you’re going through a really tough time, and it’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed and confused about your path. The pressure to choose a major, especially one as demanding as medicine, can be intense, and it’s important to prioritize your mental health.
Here are a few thoughts and suggestions:
Take a Step Back: It might be helpful to take a break from the pressure of choosing a career right now. Explore other subjects that interest you, even if they don’t lead directly to a career. Sometimes, this exploration can help clarify what you truly want.
Talk to Someone: If you can, seek out someone to talk to, whether it’s a counselor, a mentor, or even friends who might share your experiences. They can provide support and perspective as you navigate your feelings.
Consider Your Passions: Think about what activities or subjects genuinely excite you, even outside of traditional academic paths. This might lead you to discover new interests or even a different major altogether.
Explore Other Opportunities: If possible, look into extracurricular activities or volunteer work related to your interests. Engaging in different environments can sometimes provide clarity about what you want to pursue.
Focus on Self-Care: Remember to prioritize your mental wellbeing. Find activities that help lift your mood, whether that’s exercising, meditating, or spending time with people you enjoy being around.
Reframe Your Goals: Rather than viewing your education as a path strictly defined by others, try to think about what you want for yourself—whether that’s happiness, fulfillment, or a specific skill.
It’s perfectly okay not to have everything figured out right now. Many students feel uncertain about their paths, and it’s important to give yourself the grace to explore and change course as needed. You’re not alone in this journey.