Going into college, I thought I had my life planned out. I planned to major in marketing and eventually work in the fashion industry. I am now in my junior year of college and have a completely different idea of what I want my life to look like.

The First Detour

The summer after my first year of college, I had an opportunity to work in the field I believed was my future. As much as I enjoyed my time there, it was not something that I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I knew that I wanted a job where I could help people.

When I thought about giving back and helping others, the medical field came to mind, so I changed my major to biological sciences. Input from people around me also influenced my choice, and at the time, it felt right.

A Change of Heart

I am someone who enjoys learning about many different things, including chemistry and biology. I spent a lot of time thinking about my future career but forgot to factor in what I wanted my life to look like.

I wanted to get into dermatology. However, medical school and the rigorous schedule that comes with the profession were not what I wanted for my future. After a lot of research, I concluded that this simply was not the path for me.

Finding the Right Fit

Once I realized this, I took some time to really think about what I wanted to do and what I wanted my life to look like. Looking back, this was an awfully big decision for an eighteen-year-old to make.

I had no idea what I wanted. The thought that I could take my life in one hundred different directions was beyond overwhelming. After taking time by myself to figure out my interests, I spoke with my advisor and changed my major for the final time.

I chose to major in criminal justice because of the diverse opportunities within the legal field. To account for my indecisiveness and varied interests, I knew I needed to pick something that would allow for career versatility.

It's Okay Not to Know

I realized that not knowing what you want is okay. Every chaotic and stressful moment along the way helped me figure out what I wanted in the end. Even now, I do not know exactly what I want to do. Still, if there is anything I have learned, it is that finding the path is part of the journey.

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