Ask Garrett for Feb. 19, 2014
Dear Garrett,
I am trying to decide if I should study abroad next year. I have always really wanted to see another part of the world, but I am afraid that I would be missing so much here. I am also worried that I may not learn as much, and that could put me behind with my degree. What should I do?
Sincerely,
Feeling Wanderlust
Dear Feeling Wanderlust,
If you really want to study abroad and have the means to, then you should definitely do it. College will be one of the few times in your life that taking advantage of this opportunity can be so easily done. Also, you can always speak to your advisor to ensure that you can take classes while abroad that keep you on course with your degree. Plenty of people study abroad and still graduate on time without a problem at all.
In regards to what you may be missing here, don’t worry about it. Studying abroad is a life experience that you will hold close for the rest of your life. You will learn so much from being immersed in a foreign culture, and that will enhance your education even further. Believe me, you will still be learning quite a bit if you study abroad, more then you probably would here. After all, not only will you have classes but you also be learning your way in a new part of the world.
If you are truly worried about not being able to study abroad, you could even just take a J-Term trip. These are exciting three-week adventures during January. However, I have always wished that I studied abroad for a semester, so I say if you have the opportunity, then go for it.
Sincerely,
Garrett
Dear Garrett,
I’m having second thoughts about my major. I am currently a biology major, but I am not sure if I really enjoy it. I have always loved learning about history, but I don’t think there is much you could do with that degree. With my parents help, I decided upon biology. It just seemed like a safe choice, but I don’t think I love it. Should I consider changing majors?
Sincerely,
Not So Sure Anymore
Dear Not So Sure Anymore,
You should definitely at least consider changing majors. You have to realize that your major is going to lead to your future career, and that career is what you’ll be doing for the rest of your life. Basically, you need to love your major. You need to truly enjoy what you’re learning and actually look forward to making use of your future degree in the career world.
If you are worried about what you could do with a history degree, then don’t. There are job opportunities for every major, and they may not be obvious at first. What you should do is talk to your advisor and see if changing majors would even be possible. You should also speak with one of the history professors to get a better idea of what majoring in history would involve, and they can also give you ideas about how to use a history degree after graduation.
Basically, I am a huge advocate for doing what you love. I have been a writing/communications major since I started at the college, and I have had absolutely no regret. I enjoy my classes and everything I learn in them. When I graduate, I know of the many opportunities that will be open to me, but the most important part is that I know I will enjoy what I am doing since I have enjoyed everything to this point.
Good luck with this tough decision.
Sincerely,
Garrett