Syd Speaks: Figuring Out Your Path

Sydney Barber

Staff Writer

Dear Syd,

Sometimes I feel completely lost about my major and what I want to do after college. How did you figure out your path? Is it okay to change directions or not have a plan yet?

Dear Sweet Reader,

The beauty of Assumption University, though it may seem tedious at the time, is that we have a lengthy core curriculum that you’re required to complete (preferably) before you begin your major electives.

These core classes allow students to explore nearly every possible major here, from philosophy to science, or history to literature.

Unlike many college students, I was blessed to know what I wanted to do for both my degree and my future. I came into Assumption as a biology major with a concentration in pre-dental, with hopes of entering dental school the minute my undergrad diploma touched my hand.

 However, in my junior year, I began having second thoughts about going into dentistry after taking some classes that made me realize my passion for science as a whole. I researched PA schools, medical schools, and dabbled with the thought of going into occupational therapy or even optometry.

I decided to pick up a Pre-Clinical Health Science major on top of my Biology major to test the waters of some healthcare and human service classes; and with the support of my professors, and the opportunity to work in an orthodontic office this past summer, I decided that dentistry was actually what I wanted to dedicate my life to.

So for all of you who are feeling uncertain about your major or what you want to do with your life, I’ll tell you this: Find something that you’re passionate about, but don’t close yourself off to the possibility of other things.

Test the waters of other majors and professions and see what is the right fit for you. And I’ll tell you something that a wise person (my mom) always says: “It is never too late to change your mind.” 

Good luck, my friends

Give yourself some grace,

Syd <3