Starting university is supposed to be an exciting time, right? For my younger (and exceptionally indecisive ) 19-year-old self, this was an extremely stressful time. I simply couldn’t decide on which courses I should add to my CAO list. If you find yourself to be stuck in the same position, then you’re probably juggling between a course that you truly love and one that you think is more practical. Making the right choice for your degree can be intensely difficult under the pressure of your parents and teachers, who may have rigid views on which courses will be more profitable than others.
From personal experience, I have realized the value of choosing a course that you truly enjoy. When I first started college, I enrolled in a General Science course, wanting to specialise in Biochemistry. Despite my aptitude and love for the subject of English, I believed that a scientific degree would be a more employable and profitable choice.
After my first week in this course, I had a nagging feeling that prevented me from enjoying my time at college. I began resenting having to go to university, dreading my lectures. Though the science course I had chosen was fascinating, my heart simply wasn’t in it. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t muster any motivation to develop an interest in this subject.
The subject matter seemed dull, mundane, and pointless to me. I began to reminisce about my time studying English Literature in A-levels. I missed the complex analysis of literary texts, how a multitude of meanings could be deciphered from a single sentence. I began to wonder what studying English in university would have been like, whether it would be different to the calculated realm of study I found myself trapped in.
Thankfully, I listened to my innermost feelings and found the courage to make a momentous decision. On the Friday of my first week in the General Science course, I applied for a transfer to the English and Media Studies course.
Despite being criticized for my indecisiveness and impulsiveness by my family and friends, I instinctively knew this was the right decision for me. This course finally allowed me to explore my creativity in a subject I actually loved. I had found my love for learning again; I didn’t feel suffocated every time I entered a lecture hall. The intense workload didn’t seem like such an immense burden, it became something that both challenged and inspired me.
I am in no way criticizing scientific courses, I am simply conveying that this subject was the wrong choice for me. My strengths and ambitions were simply geared towards a creative subject.
This isn’t an easy thing to realize though. It can take years for us to discover where our hearts lie, and where we can fully strive as individuals. This is why I think it is important to include a variety of choices on your CAO options list. Don’t be afraid of including courses that you think you would enjoy on your list.
Also, keep an open mind when choosing your top course choices. Don’t rule out courses because you’ve assumed that they are not employable. Instead, research any course you’re interested in thoroughly before making any decision. Remember, choosing an academic path in which you feel fulfilled and content will benefit you more in the long run than opting for one that leaves you feeling unmotivated and confined.
