Does it ever feel like everyone else has a five-year plan…and you somehow missed the memo?
Scrolling through social media, it may seem like your peers have their careers and future plans all figured out. Meanwhile, your direction isn’t as clear.
It’s no wonder many people in their 20s feel pressure to decide exactly where their lives are headed. In reality though, your twenties are one of life’s biggest periods of change. Uncertainty is totally normal.
It’s okay to not have everything figured out
After high school graduation, many prospective students say they are not sure about their career path, education goals or next steps. That’s completely fine. In fact, our twenties are often a decade of exploration, change and self-discovery.
Rather than waiting until you’re absolutely certain about your life path before taking the next step, university can be the place where clarity begins to take shape. Like a Polaroid photo, your path often comes into focus slowly, not all at once.
If you feel stuck, a university degree can help with forward momentum. The helpful Program Advisors at the University of Fredericton (UFred) can play a role in charting your way forward, with flexible online learning that supports students as they find their flow.
University gives you structure to explore interests
Know this: you don’t need a perfect career plan before you take the first step. The time it takes to explore our interests is a worthwhile investment in your future, and our interests evolve as we learn more information.
With online learning, you can try different subjects, discover your strengths, learn transferable skills and build a ton of confidence along the way. In the process of learning from professors, getting feedback on assignments and collaborating with peers, you will begin to make informed decisions rather than guessing about your future. Plus, you may discover a career option you didn’t even know existed.
University can help you build career direction and eventually land a job. But at its core, post-secondary programs offer a structured learning environment where you can discover your interests and find your voice. Earning a valuable credential that has the power to change your life for the better is the cherry on top.
How do I choose what to study in university?
Start with curiosity. Try to approach university with a beginner’s mindset, which is all about confronting new situations with openness. Drop any preconceived notions you may have and just see what happens.
Instead of asking “what career do I want to do forever?” ask yourself:
What topics keep my attention?
Which assignments have I enjoyed?
What skills do I want to build?
What problems do I like solving?
Interests and passions emerge through learning and experimentation. It’s your job to listen to that pull. But it’s okay if you don’t know which program to choose right away. A Program Advisor can help you. As you begin your life-changing education journey, you will start to see possibilities for your future fall into place.
