7 answers
Ashley
Student
Colorado Springs, Colorado
1
Question
Asked
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What would be the best degree to combine my interests? And are my goals unrealistic?
I am 24 and currently a freshman at a community college. I have had a rough run with education and am aware that I am a bit behind. This does not bother me because I can finally afford college however I did drop out of high school (I did get my GED) and had absolutely no college prep. I never took an SAT or ACT and I am very confused by the college process and have learned most of what I know from the internet so any tips would be appreciated. All of this to say I am trying my best to prioritize education but would love to know if what I'm wanting to achieve is realistic. I'm mostly interested in social sciences like political science, linguistics, psychology and law. This gives me a general area of focus but am still unsure what would be the best degree to get. I do hope to achieve my masters degree or go on to law school but is this unrealistic considering my background? If so what would you recommend me focus on for my associates and bachelors? Also like I said I am quite uninformed about the college process in general so any random tips you have learned would be much appreciated! Thank you.
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7 answers
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1913
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Madison !
I am really happy to have read your inquiry and without hesitation would like to share some advice with you. You are absolutely not "behind" and always remember that whatever goal you have is realistic and doable. You have a special gift of motivation and the ability to take action. There is no deadline to accomplish goals. Everyone moves forward in their own time. So yes, you can do anything you choose. Never let labels, stereotypes or generalizations make you feel any negative way. Those are just things the world throws at people to make them feel bad. And when you stand by these thoughts, you will attract goodness which will be beneficial to you and those around you. You can do it !
You have some very marketable career interest subjects that you've mentioned. Political Science and Law are interwoven, and Psychology and Linguistics are very close too. This is an interesting combination. It kind of points to a career as an Attorney. You will find out which interest you'd lean towards as you move along in college. It will come to you but it's okay to have many interests and not settle on one career path just yet. Let things unfold naturally. Don't worry about your age. You'll always have a lot to offer your whole life. Your desire to obtain your Masters Degree would be good for this and even Law School if you want to become an Attorney. It's very realistic. I just want to say that people with higher levels of disadvantage do it all the time. You are living in the present and must look forward because the past is behind, not forward.
You can weigh out your interests by considering a few things. Take Law and Political Science for instance, that is definitely a career as an Attorney or Paralegal. Then you have Psychology which is a career in many realms such as becoming a specialized Counselor or Psychologist. The only one that is not a free-flowing career rather a skill that can be used in any career is Linguistics. For all these interests, you could go into education and become a teacher and teach one of these subjects if that's something you'd want to do above the many other options you have. All of the careers mentioned have a long duration of being in college.
A good major for you for your Associates Degree would be Psychology with a minor in Political Science. For the Bachelors Degree, I would recommend (that's if you plan to be an attorney) Political Science major and a Minor in Government. By the time you are almost finished with your Bachelors Degree, you will know just where to take it, so give it time. There are many options for your interests as a whole. Explore careers in Psychology to compare the Law and Psychology careers and see which you would like better. Explore Law School requirements so that you can take any courses that may be needed later on for Law School. Read about the education requirements for whatever career you think is for you and decide which education path you want to take. Sometimes this doesn't occur to people right away. Life experience sometimes guides people to a choice.
College websites have a wealth of information that can provide information about the college process and there are numerous articles online about it, too. Each college has different requirements, guidelines and protocol so you can read college websites as well as view videos on You Tube about this. You can always return here if you have any specific question that you need advice for.
I hope that this is helpful and I really think you're going to achieve greatly in college and with furthering your education. Do not give up, always reach out and remember that there are resources on campus to support you such as a Career Services Center and Academic Counseling office, too ! Best wishes to you in all you do !
I am really happy to have read your inquiry and without hesitation would like to share some advice with you. You are absolutely not "behind" and always remember that whatever goal you have is realistic and doable. You have a special gift of motivation and the ability to take action. There is no deadline to accomplish goals. Everyone moves forward in their own time. So yes, you can do anything you choose. Never let labels, stereotypes or generalizations make you feel any negative way. Those are just things the world throws at people to make them feel bad. And when you stand by these thoughts, you will attract goodness which will be beneficial to you and those around you. You can do it !
You have some very marketable career interest subjects that you've mentioned. Political Science and Law are interwoven, and Psychology and Linguistics are very close too. This is an interesting combination. It kind of points to a career as an Attorney. You will find out which interest you'd lean towards as you move along in college. It will come to you but it's okay to have many interests and not settle on one career path just yet. Let things unfold naturally. Don't worry about your age. You'll always have a lot to offer your whole life. Your desire to obtain your Masters Degree would be good for this and even Law School if you want to become an Attorney. It's very realistic. I just want to say that people with higher levels of disadvantage do it all the time. You are living in the present and must look forward because the past is behind, not forward.
You can weigh out your interests by considering a few things. Take Law and Political Science for instance, that is definitely a career as an Attorney or Paralegal. Then you have Psychology which is a career in many realms such as becoming a specialized Counselor or Psychologist. The only one that is not a free-flowing career rather a skill that can be used in any career is Linguistics. For all these interests, you could go into education and become a teacher and teach one of these subjects if that's something you'd want to do above the many other options you have. All of the careers mentioned have a long duration of being in college.
A good major for you for your Associates Degree would be Psychology with a minor in Political Science. For the Bachelors Degree, I would recommend (that's if you plan to be an attorney) Political Science major and a Minor in Government. By the time you are almost finished with your Bachelors Degree, you will know just where to take it, so give it time. There are many options for your interests as a whole. Explore careers in Psychology to compare the Law and Psychology careers and see which you would like better. Explore Law School requirements so that you can take any courses that may be needed later on for Law School. Read about the education requirements for whatever career you think is for you and decide which education path you want to take. Sometimes this doesn't occur to people right away. Life experience sometimes guides people to a choice.
College websites have a wealth of information that can provide information about the college process and there are numerous articles online about it, too. Each college has different requirements, guidelines and protocol so you can read college websites as well as view videos on You Tube about this. You can always return here if you have any specific question that you need advice for.
I hope that this is helpful and I really think you're going to achieve greatly in college and with furthering your education. Do not give up, always reach out and remember that there are resources on campus to support you such as a Career Services Center and Academic Counseling office, too ! Best wishes to you in all you do !
Michelle, thank you very much! Your response has helped to reassure me and given me a lot to think about. I greatly appreciate the care you've put into this response and after reading it I feel I am more equipped to make these decisions. I will be taking your advice to focus on the future and will be looking into universities and law schools. "People with higher levels of disadvantage do it all the time." This has helped to put things into perspective for me. Best of wishes to you as well!
Ashley
This makes me feel happy and you are very welcome for the advice. Have an awesome day, Madison !
Michelle M.
Amber Lee
Tax Associate
41
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Amber’s Answer
Hello Madison! Congratulations on taking the first step towards achieving your goals. I started my college journey as an international student in the US so I, too, was unfamiliar with the college process when I first began my education at a community college. I went on to attend law school so I think I can provide some additional insights that have not been previously addressed by the other folks here.
First, some preliminaries: I think a great first step for you is to get in touch with your college's career and academic counseling office to figure out if there are any requirements you should be aware of as a freshman (e.g., taking the SAT/ACT). Get a good understanding of ways to transition to a 4-year college if the Bachelor's degree you're considering is not offered at your community college (I did 2.5 years at my community college, and then another 2.5 years at a traditional 4-year state university).
Next, consider which major you might want to complete. You had mentioned your interest in law, and that's great! The good news is you don't need an undergraduate degree in a specific major to get into law school. Some of the best students I encountered at law school had some pretty unconventional educational background, like math and music. Having a degree in PoliSci, History, or Economics seem to give students a slight advantage during the first year of law school, but it is by no means a guarantee to success.
My advice: consider a degree that has practical applications outside law school in case you change your mind on going to law school. Attending college requires a lot of time and financial commitment, so ideally you would want to pick a degree that will give you the best return on investment given the competitiveness in the current job market. Also, you might want to check with your college to see if there are any student organizations with a law focus just so you can get in touch with people with similar interests. You might learn a thing or two about their own paths.
All the best!
First, some preliminaries: I think a great first step for you is to get in touch with your college's career and academic counseling office to figure out if there are any requirements you should be aware of as a freshman (e.g., taking the SAT/ACT). Get a good understanding of ways to transition to a 4-year college if the Bachelor's degree you're considering is not offered at your community college (I did 2.5 years at my community college, and then another 2.5 years at a traditional 4-year state university).
Next, consider which major you might want to complete. You had mentioned your interest in law, and that's great! The good news is you don't need an undergraduate degree in a specific major to get into law school. Some of the best students I encountered at law school had some pretty unconventional educational background, like math and music. Having a degree in PoliSci, History, or Economics seem to give students a slight advantage during the first year of law school, but it is by no means a guarantee to success.
My advice: consider a degree that has practical applications outside law school in case you change your mind on going to law school. Attending college requires a lot of time and financial commitment, so ideally you would want to pick a degree that will give you the best return on investment given the competitiveness in the current job market. Also, you might want to check with your college to see if there are any student organizations with a law focus just so you can get in touch with people with similar interests. You might learn a thing or two about their own paths.
All the best!
Marylou DiFilippo
Actor, Teacher
54
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Marylou’s Answer
Hi!
My son is a lawyer, and his degree from college is in Jazz Piano Performance!
He contacted a local judge, and apprenticed for him. This made all the world, allowing him to observe and see if this is the direction he may want to go. Check that out! Explore volunteer apprentice opportunities in your area. That way you can make contacts, which become important.
I wish you all the very best!
~Marylou
My son is a lawyer, and his degree from college is in Jazz Piano Performance!
He contacted a local judge, and apprenticed for him. This made all the world, allowing him to observe and see if this is the direction he may want to go. Check that out! Explore volunteer apprentice opportunities in your area. That way you can make contacts, which become important.
I wish you all the very best!
~Marylou
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
616
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Madison,
Your goals are definitely realistic, and it's great that you're taking the initiative to pursue your education despite the challenges you've faced. Here's how you can approach your path:
Degree Choice:
Given your interests in political science, linguistics, psychology, and law, you have a few options:
1. Political Science: A solid choice if you're interested in law school. It will give you a strong foundation in government, policy, and legal systems.
2. Psychology: Ideal if you're fascinated by human behavior and mental processes. It can also be a stepping stone to law school, particularly if you're interested in fields like forensic psychology or legal psychology.
3. Linguistics: If you're passionate about languages and how they work, this could be an excellent path. It also has applications in law (e.g., legal language analysis) and social sciences.
4. Interdisciplinary Studies: Some schools offer programs where you can combine multiple interests, like a double major or a major-minor combination. For example, you could major in Political Science with a minor in Psychology.
Associate’s and Bachelor’s Focus:
- Associate’s Degree: Focus on general education requirements (English, Math, Science) and introductory courses in your areas of interest (Political Science, Psychology, etc.).
- Bachelor’s Degree: Once you transfer to a four-year college, you can choose a major that aligns with your goals. Political Science or Psychology would be versatile choices that keep your options open for either a master's degree or law school.
Tips for College Success:
1. Advising: Meet with an academic advisor regularly to ensure you're on track with your classes and transfer requirements.
2. Study Habits: Develop strong study habits early. Use campus resources like tutoring centers and study groups.
3. Extracurriculars: Get involved in clubs related to your interests (e.g., debate club, psychology club). This can build your resume and help with law school applications.
4. Research: Look into the transfer agreements your community college has with four-year institutions. This can simplify the process when you're ready to move on to a bachelor’s program.
5. Test Prep: If you're considering law school, prepare for the LSAT early. There are many free resources online to help you get started.
6. Networking: Build connections with professors and peers. They can provide recommendations and support as you move forward.
Your background is no barrier to achieving your goals; it just means your journey is unique. Stay focused, seek out resources, and don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
Best wishes!
Your goals are definitely realistic, and it's great that you're taking the initiative to pursue your education despite the challenges you've faced. Here's how you can approach your path:
Degree Choice:
Given your interests in political science, linguistics, psychology, and law, you have a few options:
1. Political Science: A solid choice if you're interested in law school. It will give you a strong foundation in government, policy, and legal systems.
2. Psychology: Ideal if you're fascinated by human behavior and mental processes. It can also be a stepping stone to law school, particularly if you're interested in fields like forensic psychology or legal psychology.
3. Linguistics: If you're passionate about languages and how they work, this could be an excellent path. It also has applications in law (e.g., legal language analysis) and social sciences.
4. Interdisciplinary Studies: Some schools offer programs where you can combine multiple interests, like a double major or a major-minor combination. For example, you could major in Political Science with a minor in Psychology.
Associate’s and Bachelor’s Focus:
- Associate’s Degree: Focus on general education requirements (English, Math, Science) and introductory courses in your areas of interest (Political Science, Psychology, etc.).
- Bachelor’s Degree: Once you transfer to a four-year college, you can choose a major that aligns with your goals. Political Science or Psychology would be versatile choices that keep your options open for either a master's degree or law school.
Tips for College Success:
1. Advising: Meet with an academic advisor regularly to ensure you're on track with your classes and transfer requirements.
2. Study Habits: Develop strong study habits early. Use campus resources like tutoring centers and study groups.
3. Extracurriculars: Get involved in clubs related to your interests (e.g., debate club, psychology club). This can build your resume and help with law school applications.
4. Research: Look into the transfer agreements your community college has with four-year institutions. This can simplify the process when you're ready to move on to a bachelor’s program.
5. Test Prep: If you're considering law school, prepare for the LSAT early. There are many free resources online to help you get started.
6. Networking: Build connections with professors and peers. They can provide recommendations and support as you move forward.
Your background is no barrier to achieving your goals; it just means your journey is unique. Stay focused, seek out resources, and don't hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
Best wishes!
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
613
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
Appreciate you sharing and while your journey may not be “typical”, don’t look at things as though you are behind. Your race is against yourself and being better today than you were yesterday.
Talk to an advisor and make sure the classes you are taking will grant you a degree and are transferable. With the right GPA and transfer units, some colleges will automatically accept you. Until you are going for an MBA, all of the other tests and such are just noise.
Talk to an advisor and make sure the classes you are taking will grant you a degree and are transferable. With the right GPA and transfer units, some colleges will automatically accept you. Until you are going for an MBA, all of the other tests and such are just noise.
Chris Walker
4
Answers
Little Rock, Arkansas
Updated
Chris’s Answer
Hello Madison,
I am also a high school drop out that started college after already having a career for 15 years. I start my Master's degree this semester. The college process does get easier. I also started at a community college, so this process is something I also went through myself. Once you understand admissions and financial aid most of actually attending college is done.
With you being a freshman you are just starting, while your fields are diverse you still have time to figure things out. Do not take any electives for your first year, I advise all college new comers who are still unsure of their major to avoid them because you will not waste valuable transcript space. Your first 2 year degree, Associates, will primarily be a mix of every content area in college so you will take intro classes to almost every Professional degree (Masters degree and higher). Use this first year to explore subject areas you have interest in, possibly more if you needed developmental classes. Most Community Colleges offer tests that determine if you need classes to catch you up to College level classes. I had to take 2 semesters of these before I began actual college level classes.
I cannot speak for your local 4 year colleges (Colleges that offer Bachelor and higher degrees) but the ones where I live have what is often called "Majors day", regardless of the name given. These days are often designed for potential transfer students to meet and greet professors from every department in the school for any questions you may have. If you have a 4 year college already selected then please do research these or reach out to them as these days are very often in the Fall semester which we are starting. These can be quite informative as you will get to talk to faculty that often hold at least a Master's degree.
To touch on your possible tracks you listed.
Psychology will lead to the very least of a Masters degree, PhD or Doctorate if you want to enter private practice.
A Law degree is also similar as to when this track becomes career viable.
Linguistics, you will need to learn math but can very easily start a career as a Bachelor degree.
Political Sciences, I personally found very interesting. (Most 2 year colleges give you the option of either taking a History class or a American Politics class so take the Politics if you want to experience a intro to this degree track). As interesting as I found this content, it is limited on usefulness.
Out of your options, the most currently in demand, would be a Psychology track. Specifically in Social Work.
I would recommend regardless of anything that you find out when a Majors Day is and visit a local 4 year college you want to attend, or plan to attend. Prepare questions you have ahead of time. What will really matter the most is once you make a decision on what major you want to pursue, you meet with an Advisor at the 4 year college to go over what Elective classes you can take while at the Community college because tuition is much cheaper and you can speed up your time wrapping up your Undergraduate if you plan correctly. It is imperative that you discuss this with a 4 year college Advisor and not a 2 year college Advisor.
This is all a lot for a new freshman, but it will all get easier as you move forward. I wish you the best of luck in your college career!
I am also a high school drop out that started college after already having a career for 15 years. I start my Master's degree this semester. The college process does get easier. I also started at a community college, so this process is something I also went through myself. Once you understand admissions and financial aid most of actually attending college is done.
With you being a freshman you are just starting, while your fields are diverse you still have time to figure things out. Do not take any electives for your first year, I advise all college new comers who are still unsure of their major to avoid them because you will not waste valuable transcript space. Your first 2 year degree, Associates, will primarily be a mix of every content area in college so you will take intro classes to almost every Professional degree (Masters degree and higher). Use this first year to explore subject areas you have interest in, possibly more if you needed developmental classes. Most Community Colleges offer tests that determine if you need classes to catch you up to College level classes. I had to take 2 semesters of these before I began actual college level classes.
I cannot speak for your local 4 year colleges (Colleges that offer Bachelor and higher degrees) but the ones where I live have what is often called "Majors day", regardless of the name given. These days are often designed for potential transfer students to meet and greet professors from every department in the school for any questions you may have. If you have a 4 year college already selected then please do research these or reach out to them as these days are very often in the Fall semester which we are starting. These can be quite informative as you will get to talk to faculty that often hold at least a Master's degree.
To touch on your possible tracks you listed.
Psychology will lead to the very least of a Masters degree, PhD or Doctorate if you want to enter private practice.
A Law degree is also similar as to when this track becomes career viable.
Linguistics, you will need to learn math but can very easily start a career as a Bachelor degree.
Political Sciences, I personally found very interesting. (Most 2 year colleges give you the option of either taking a History class or a American Politics class so take the Politics if you want to experience a intro to this degree track). As interesting as I found this content, it is limited on usefulness.
Out of your options, the most currently in demand, would be a Psychology track. Specifically in Social Work.
I would recommend regardless of anything that you find out when a Majors Day is and visit a local 4 year college you want to attend, or plan to attend. Prepare questions you have ahead of time. What will really matter the most is once you make a decision on what major you want to pursue, you meet with an Advisor at the 4 year college to go over what Elective classes you can take while at the Community college because tuition is much cheaper and you can speed up your time wrapping up your Undergraduate if you plan correctly. It is imperative that you discuss this with a 4 year college Advisor and not a 2 year college Advisor.
This is all a lot for a new freshman, but it will all get easier as you move forward. I wish you the best of luck in your college career!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Madison!
## Together, We'll Navigate Your Journey to Success
**Madison, by recognizing your ambitions and seeking advice, you're already on an impressive start.** Your passion for social sciences, law, and postgraduate studies is commendable. Let's dissect your queries and investigate possible routes.
### Aligning Your Interests with Suitable Degrees
Your fascination with political science, linguistics, psychology, and law is wide-ranging and presents multiple degree possibilities:
* **Political Science:** This expansive field could pave the way to law school, roles in government, or policy analysis.
* **Psychology:** Provides a robust base for law school, along with opportunities in counseling, research, or human services.
* **Linguistics:** This could be merged with law for careers in legal translation, language policy, or forensic linguistics.
**A Bachelor's Degree in Political Science or Psychology** would establish a firm groundwork for your objectives. These degrees offer a harmonious blend of critical thinking, research, and communication skills, which are vital for law school.
### Is Your Goal Beyond Reach?
**Absolutely not.** Your background might pose some difficulties, but it's not a roadblock to success. Numerous accomplished professionals have surmounted similar obstacles. Your resolve and eagerness to learn are your most potent tools.
### Guidance for the College Journey
1. **Leverage College Advisors:** Your community college likely has advisors who can assist you through the transfer process and major selection.
2. **Investigate Transfer Options:** Look into universities in Colorado Springs and surrounding areas that provide your preferred programs.
3. **Examine Financial Aid:** Look into scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities to support your education.
4. **Establish a Robust Academic Base:** Concentrate on fundamental courses like English, math, and history to gear up for transfer.
5. **Acquire Experience:** Volunteer, intern, or participate in campus activities to enhance your resume and network.
### What's Next?
1. **Consult a Community College Advisor:** Discuss your academic aspirations and investigate transfer options.
2. **Study Law Schools:** Understand the prerequisites and application process for law schools.
3. **Expand Your Network:** Engage with individuals in your chosen fields to gain insights and mentorship.
**Remember, every stride forward signifies progress.** Your zeal and commitment are the keys to realizing your goals.
**Are you interested in exploring specific universities or law schools? Or maybe you want to dig deeper into a particular degree program?**
May God Bless You!
JC.
## Together, We'll Navigate Your Journey to Success
**Madison, by recognizing your ambitions and seeking advice, you're already on an impressive start.** Your passion for social sciences, law, and postgraduate studies is commendable. Let's dissect your queries and investigate possible routes.
### Aligning Your Interests with Suitable Degrees
Your fascination with political science, linguistics, psychology, and law is wide-ranging and presents multiple degree possibilities:
* **Political Science:** This expansive field could pave the way to law school, roles in government, or policy analysis.
* **Psychology:** Provides a robust base for law school, along with opportunities in counseling, research, or human services.
* **Linguistics:** This could be merged with law for careers in legal translation, language policy, or forensic linguistics.
**A Bachelor's Degree in Political Science or Psychology** would establish a firm groundwork for your objectives. These degrees offer a harmonious blend of critical thinking, research, and communication skills, which are vital for law school.
### Is Your Goal Beyond Reach?
**Absolutely not.** Your background might pose some difficulties, but it's not a roadblock to success. Numerous accomplished professionals have surmounted similar obstacles. Your resolve and eagerness to learn are your most potent tools.
### Guidance for the College Journey
1. **Leverage College Advisors:** Your community college likely has advisors who can assist you through the transfer process and major selection.
2. **Investigate Transfer Options:** Look into universities in Colorado Springs and surrounding areas that provide your preferred programs.
3. **Examine Financial Aid:** Look into scholarships, grants, and work-study opportunities to support your education.
4. **Establish a Robust Academic Base:** Concentrate on fundamental courses like English, math, and history to gear up for transfer.
5. **Acquire Experience:** Volunteer, intern, or participate in campus activities to enhance your resume and network.
### What's Next?
1. **Consult a Community College Advisor:** Discuss your academic aspirations and investigate transfer options.
2. **Study Law Schools:** Understand the prerequisites and application process for law schools.
3. **Expand Your Network:** Engage with individuals in your chosen fields to gain insights and mentorship.
**Remember, every stride forward signifies progress.** Your zeal and commitment are the keys to realizing your goals.
**Are you interested in exploring specific universities or law schools? Or maybe you want to dig deeper into a particular degree program?**
May God Bless You!
JC.
James, thank you so much for your response and reminding me I'm not alone on this journey! I appreciate your kind words and helpful advice. This has definitely lifted a lot of my anxieties and helped give me direction. I will be taking your advice and reaching out to my advisors and looking into universities and law schools. I will also be looking into financial aid and volunteer and internship programs. May God Bless you as well!
Ashley