Studies off course
Question
I'm in my third year at university and have realised that I have chosen the wrong course. I really hate it. I feel sick with worry when I think about getting a career related to what I'm studying. It feels like I've wasted these past few years and my money has gone down the drain. How can I sort this mess out?
Answer
It's understandable you're concerned about feeling you've made the wrong choice, but try not to be too hard on yourself. While some people know their chosen career from a young age, many others try a variety of study and career paths.
Initially, it might help to talk to someone about how scary everything seems right now. Do you have a close friend or family member you could talk this over with? You could also speak to a student counsellor at your University for emotional support and to see what academic and careers support is available. Everything might seem overwhelming at the moment, but there could be many more options than you realise.
You could also contact Prospects for further information about possible next steps. This service for students and recent graduates offers careers advice including a CV checker and email advice service.
You don't mention which career or jobs you are particularly interested in. Though you might not be ready to make any firm decisions yet, you could take a look at the work and study section of TheSite.org for some ideas.
It sounds like you're also experiencing quite a lot of anxiety. You don't mention if you have spoken to a professional about how you feel, but you may find that your doctor can help. Your doctor may refer you to a counsellor. Counsellors can give you the opportunity to discuss problems and feelings in confidence, and within a safe environment. If you felt comfortable doing so you could contact Youth Access to get details of counsellors in your area. Youth Access is a national organisation that provides details of, and referrals to, local youth agencies and counselling services.
Whilst it's understandable that you might want to forge ahead and try to make decisions on your future career right now, this might be easier to do once you are feeling less anxious and overwhelmed. Remember to give yourself time to talk to someone you trust about the impact this realisation has had on you.
Updated: 06/09/2012
Question answered by bss
