I’ve been through a lot at just 21, including a battle with cancer that’s left me feeling burnt out. Initially, I planned to pursue veterinary medicine, but I reconsidered and switched to premed. After facing numerous challenges during college—especially with my GPA and graduation timeline—I’m feeling really drained. I opted for a PA program since it’s shorter than medical school, but I’m dreading taking anatomy and physiology in my senior year. I’m currently enrolled in biochem and several other demanding courses, and I’m starting to question whether I want to continue down this path.
Now, I’m considering changing the focus of my major to align more with my true passion: environmental biology and genetics, rather than medical biology. I’m not looking to switch majors entirely, just to shift my concentration. I might also minor in photography. I understand that job opportunities in these fields aren’t the best, but I feel that prioritizing my mental health could help me improve my GPA and actually enjoy my college experience.
Do you think this is a wise decision?
It sounds like you’ve been through an incredibly challenging journey, and prioritizing your mental health is crucial. Making a change to focus on something you’re passionate about, like environmental biology and genetics, could be a refreshing shift that reignites your enthusiasm for learning. It’s great that you’re also considering a minor in photography, as creative outlets can be incredibly therapeutic.
While job opportunities may vary in your chosen fields, what matters most right now is finding a path that aligns with your interests and well-being. If this change allows you to enjoy college more and focus on improving your GPA, it could very well be a smart move. Remember, it’s important to choose a path that feels right for you—not just for your career but for your overall happiness. Consider discussing your thoughts with an academic advisor to weigh your options and any potential career paths that could arise from this change. Ultimately, you deserve to find fulfillment in your studies and in life!