Shifting Majors: A Sign of Determination, Not Giving Up

“In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or step back into safety.”

–Abraham Maslow

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Change, as the cliché goes, is something we all face on a regular basis. This brings about adjustment, which can have a beneficial or adverse impact on our well-being.

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One of the transitions we make is from high school to university (or college). We consider a lot of factors, from our skills and goals to financial matters, before deciding on our major. Occasionally, we select a program based on the recommendations of our closest friends. Unfortunately for others, some parents make decisions for their children, but this is not the focus of our discussion today. 

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Educators, including class advisers, guidance counselors, and parents, make it a point to engage with their children or students about decision-making. We listen to suggestions from our trusted adults and consider our own life goals—for example, "Do I want to work in an office?" "Do I want to work with kids?" "Can I handle seeing blood every day?" "I want to contribute to Metro Manila's skyline!" —which can be daunting!

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And once we get to university, we frequently wonder if we have chosen the right program or major for us, prompting some to reconsider their choices while others take action. Others view this as a negative aspect, as it may disrupt plans and force an extended stay at university, or worse, it may be perceived as a failure or a surrender of one’s original goal.

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According to a recent study by Blake R. Silver (2023), changing degrees can provide distinct challenges. His research discovered that students go through a lot of changes when switching from one major to another. Questioning whether their chosen majors align with their abilities and future goals, exploring new majors that may meet their needs, facing a lack of support from school administrators during their transition, and finally adjusting to their new major can be emotionally taxing and exhausting.

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As Silver (2023) said, building support can help students navigate this shift more easily. This support can include aid from university or college staff members to educate transitioning students about the various options available to them, a student-tailored curriculum for students who changed majors, and peer support, all of which can help them succeed. 

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Here are some strategies that you can use as you face this transition in your university (college) life:

1. Seek something familiar. When you switch college departments, make sure to continue engaging in activities that, while unrelated to your new major, help you relax and regulate your emotions.

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2. Remember your "why." It could be that you want to make a difference in the community or that you want to use your math knowledge in your future jobs; these reasons—your WHY—can help you persevere, no matter how difficult the journey may be.

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3. Be adaptable. Change is difficult and unpredictable, so it's normal to feel all your emotions. Remember that being adaptable and open to new experiences as you navigate the different phases of life might help you adjust to new circumstances.

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4. Find someone who understands. Because changes can be overwhelming, it is completely OK to seek assistance from individuals you trust—this could be your prior class adviser, your favorite teacher or tita, or a guidance counselor. The ability to express your thoughts and fears to someone who listens and makes you feel understood goes a long way in this journey.

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Note: These strategies can be applicable as you go through different changes in your life. 

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Your willingness to meet obstacles head-on and find alternatives to success says a lot about your character. In reality, beginning again and letting go can lead to success.

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At Empath, we make an effort to be compassionate and mindful of your current circumstances in life. If you would like assistance processing your feelings and thoughts, visit our website at www.empath.ph and schedule a consultation.

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Reference:

• Kuang, M. (2022, April 26). The 5 emotional stages of switching majors. Retrieved from The University of British Columbia: https://students.ubc.ca/ubclife/5-emotional-stages-switching-majors
• Silver, B. R. (2023). Major transitions: how college students interpret the process of changing fields of study. Higher Education, 1027-1042.
• WebMD. (2024, February 25). What to Know About How to Deal With Change. Retrieved from WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/what-to-know-about-how-to-deal-with-change

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