Doubts about switching majors

Considering a Major Change

Hey everyone!

I’m currently a first-year student majoring in physics. I loved physics in high school, which inspired my decision to pursue it here. However, as I enter my second semester, I’m starting to lose that passion I once had for it. The teaching style of the professors has been challenging; it often feels like they’re geared more towards their peers than to us beginners in the introductory courses.

I also can’t shake the feeling that many of my classmates have years of physics experience and are deeply passionate about the subject, which makes me feel quite behind. People keep telling me to stick it out, but I’m uncertain. While I do alright in calculus and physics, I’m not excelling – I scored a 76 on my physics midterm and didn’t do well on my calculus exam either.

I’m reaching out to see if anyone has faced similar doubts when starting their majors and how you handled it. I’ve been seriously contemplating a major change because I want to study something I genuinely enjoy. I still appreciate physics, but I can’t shake the feeling that I’m not grasping it the same way my peers do. It’s tough not to compare myself when I see students scoring 100s on their calculus exams, even if they’re not in STEM fields.

Thanks for any advice!

One Reply to “Doubts about switching majors”

  1. Hey there!

    It sounds like you’re going through a really tough time, and I can definitely relate to your feelings. It’s completely normal to have doubts about your major, especially after realizing it might not be the same as you remembered it from high school. University courses can be a lot more challenging, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you’re surrounded by really passionate and knowledgeable peers.

    First off, remember that everyone learns at their own pace. The fact that you’re not getting the grades you’d hoped for doesn’t mean you aren’t capable or intelligent; it could just be a different learning environment, or possibly even the teaching style of the professors. Have you considered seeking help outside of class? Forming a study group or attending tutoring sessions could provide a different perspective on the material and help reinforce your understanding.

    Switching majors is a big decision, and it’s worth reflecting on what you enjoy and what you want out of your education. Think about whether it’s the subject matter of physics that you’re unsure about, or if it’s the current experience that’s making you feel this way. If there’s another field that truly excites you, it might be worth exploring.

    It might also help to speak with your academic advisor or a trusted professor. They can provide more insights into whether it’s common to struggle initially in physics and how former students have navigated similar feelings.

    Ultimately, you have to choose what feels right for you. Don’t rush the decision; take your time to explore your options, whether it’s sticking with physics for a bit longer or finding a new path that sparks your interest more. You’ve got this!

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