Caitlin
What do you suggest doing when the majors you're interested in are vastly different and require very different schooling?
I am interested in early education or being a pediatrician. I do not know what type of schooling I'll be able to afford and do not have enough basis to make a decision likely until a few years into college. Unfortunately, these two majors seem to require extremely different schooling and I do not know what courses I could take that would apply for either major. #education #pediatrics #majors
2 answers
Esther Smith
Esther’s Answer
Caitlin what are you thinking about is normal! During my first 2 years of college, I had a hard time thinking about what to major in because I had so many interests. It took me a while to decide on one field but all of the classes I took when trying to figure out what I wanted to do helped me out in my work later in life. (So no class is a waste.) To save you the time of taking classes and deciding what to do (like I did), I'd suggest reaching out to someone you may know who works in an early education school or a hospital or doctor office. Ask them if it's possible for you to visit their office for a few hours to see what they do. And while you are there, ask them questions. They'd be happy to help you out and you will be able to see right away if the career is something you'd like to pursue or not. Good luck! I know you will find the career that is perfect for you!
Thank you!
Caitlin
Carol Plotsky
Carol’s Answer
Caitlin
Although your career goals are different, your education can be the same. To go to medical school you will need certain courses but you do not need to be a premed major. You need to do well in school and well in the premed courses but having a different major will not stop you going to medical school. Early education is a wonderful field and may be something to pursue initially and then you can always change to a premedical track if that turns out to be your interest. Many students do not go directly to medical school but take a year of courses or doing research to make them more competitive to get into medical school. Or they work for several years to help pay for medical school which is very expensive. You could be a teacher and then go to medical school after several years. You could take the premed courses in college or at night while you are working.
The most important thing is not to feel that you are trapped by any decision you make. It is important that you explore your interests and make whatever changes you need to make over time.
Thank you!
Caitlin