This is my second year in college,I've gotten B's during my freshman year and now I basically failed one of my major required course. I don't know what to do. Honestly I went into this for the potential money and to please my parents. I know people who graduated with prestigious degrees and then went back to school for other areas such as art (which is something I want to do). I feel like I wasted too much time on this to quit and yet I have to. I am very unhappy and don't know what I should do. Please give me some advice.
There is no moral, ethical, or economic law that says a person needs to finish college in the four years immediately following high school.
I suggest you drop out temporarily. You can use the credits you've earned later. But in the meantime, leave college and get a job. While you do that, you'll learn more about yourself and your interests.
In the 50s and 60s when I was in college, it was very common for young men to spend two years in the military between high school and college. Those two years enabled them to grow up and become focused on a desired profession and college classes.
Good luck!
And please check back here for comments from others.
If you can do it, try to explain to your parents that you want to please them, but what you were doing was not your first love. It is very difficult to make money in art, but not impossible. While you are training, keep your eye on the job market so you will know what is available.
Also, most colleges have tests that will help you decide what you really like, or more often, what you really do NOT like.
There were 4 children in my family and the one who didn't go to college, ended up making more money than the rest of us! Whatever you do in life, you have to like it enough to put up with the days that are not perfect.
Sra
It is not the end of the world. Most students do not get a degree and pursue a career in the area of their parent's wishes. Indeed, most parents should not expect them to.
Dropping out and getting a job may not be easy in today's economy, but may be an option. Consider changing majors. If you change to Art, some colleges will give you credit for time spent abroad, and that might be time well spent, if your parents are willing to pay the bills.
Thanks for the reply. I want to do exactly what all of you said but something is holding me back. I will give this a bit more thought and speak with some friends but the road seems clear now. Again, thanks.
I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling unhappy and unsure about your college experience. It's not uncommon for students to change their interests and goals as they progress through their education. Here are a few steps to consider in order to make an informed decision:
1. Reflect on your interests: Take some time to think about what truly interests and motivates you. Consider the courses you enjoyed most, the activities you find fulfilling, and the subjects you naturally gravitate towards. Think about how you can align your studies with your passions.
2. Research alternative career paths: Look into different career options that align with your newfound interests. Consider how you could pursue a career in art or any other field you're passionate about. This may involve further education, internships, or networking opportunities. Look for people who have successfully transitioned to the field you're interested in and reach out to them for advice or information.
3. Speak with academic advisors: Schedule a meeting with your college academic advisor to discuss your concerns and explore alternative majors or paths. They can provide guidance and insight into the available options and requirements for changing your major or pursuing additional studies.
4. Seek advice from professionals: Connect with professionals working in fields that interest you. This can be through informational interviews, career fairs, or online communities. Ask questions about their career paths, required skills, job satisfaction, and the challenges they face.
5. Consider your long-term goals: Think about where you want to be in the future and what will make you happy. Remember, it's important to pursue a career that aligns with your values and brings you fulfillment, rather than solely focusing on potential income or pleasing others.
6. Explore opportunities outside of college: Keep in mind that there are many paths to success, and a college degree is not the only way to achieve it. Look into options such as vocational schools, online courses, apprenticeships, or starting your own business.
7. Take action: Once you've gathered enough information and considered your options, it's important to make a decision and take action. This may involve changing your major, transferring to a different college or university, or exploring alternative educational pathways.
Remember, it's never too late to pursue what truly makes you happy. It might require some additional effort and adjustments, but taking steps towards a fulfilling and meaningful career is worth it in the long run.