Another chapter begins as one ends. While the application for college or university takes only a few weeks to prepare, the whole process dates back further than you would expect. Everyone has a dream job when they were a kid – with the typicals like a doctor, teacher, or lawyer. Yet, what we end up pursuing is mostly different from what we once aspired to be. This is because we are constantly growing and discovering ourselves through new experiences and exploration.
In order to know which path to go towards, it is necessary to start finding what interests you from an earlier age. Picking a post-secondary degree or major is not an easy task, so if you don’t want to scratch your head last minute, here are some things you should do throughout your high school years:
Join Clubs
The school curriculum and your grades are important, but they are not the only things to focus on. Teenagehood is a phase of growth and development. During this time, join different clubs – ones you think you like and ones you think you might not like. Although hobbies do not necessarily shape into a career, they certainly help map out the territories where your skills exhibit. Go sign up for acapella, drama, photography or coding clubs at your school!
Volunteer
Some schools might have very limited options for you to express your desires and explore your interests. In that case, volunteering off-campus in animal shelters, food banks and other charitable organizations might allow you to see and experience more.
Keep a Journal
If you already have the habit to write diaries, this should be easy. Documenting what you have experienced in your everyday lives might be more helpful than you think. The emotions and thoughts you express in your journals are likely to be honest and the purest. To help with your degree-search, look back to your old diaries and discover what you enjoy most and least.
Talk to People
When you are stuck, seeking help is always an option. Talking to your peers, teachers, parents or even relatives might open up your minds and ease your selection process. Adults who are experienced may offer you tips and advice that your friends might not think of. Talking to yourself is another effective method. Make a table in your head that categories what you like, might like and dislike. The process of elimination can reduce the size of your options and aid in your final decision-making.
The takeaway message is to always maintain an open mind and follow your heart!
