How do I know a uni course is right for me?
Hiya,
I feel like this is quite a regular occurrence when people second guess their uni course decisions, but I'm definitely contemplating my choice. Most of my friends have career goals right and know exactly what they wanted to do from a young age. I've always had ideas of what I have wanted to do, but there has never been one that I have been completely set on. I definitely want to go to uni and have that experience but there are so many courses that interest me. For example, I have applied for Primary Ed, but I've also looked at courses in Marketing and Speech and Language Therapy (which has just confused me even more because they are all so different :P ) I'm starting uni in September, and although I understand that you can change courses, this would probably be pretty disruptive moving about. I want to have made a final decision before the time I start uni, but I don't know how to assess whether this course is fit for me. Any advice or similar experiences would really help! Thank you.
I feel like this is quite a regular occurrence when people second guess their uni course decisions, but I'm definitely contemplating my choice. Most of my friends have career goals right and know exactly what they wanted to do from a young age. I've always had ideas of what I have wanted to do, but there has never been one that I have been completely set on. I definitely want to go to uni and have that experience but there are so many courses that interest me. For example, I have applied for Primary Ed, but I've also looked at courses in Marketing and Speech and Language Therapy (which has just confused me even more because they are all so different :P ) I'm starting uni in September, and although I understand that you can change courses, this would probably be pretty disruptive moving about. I want to have made a final decision before the time I start uni, but I don't know how to assess whether this course is fit for me. Any advice or similar experiences would really help! Thank you.
Original post by fayebarnard06
Hiya,
I feel like this is quite a regular occurrence when people second guess their uni course decisions, but I'm definitely contemplating my choice. Most of my friends have career goals right and know exactly what they wanted to do from a young age. I've always had ideas of what I have wanted to do, but there has never been one that I have been completely set on. I definitely want to go to uni and have that experience but there are so many courses that interest me. For example, I have applied for Primary Ed, but I've also looked at courses in Marketing and Speech and Language Therapy (which has just confused me even more because they are all so different :P ) I'm starting uni in September, and although I understand that you can change courses, this would probably be pretty disruptive moving about. I want to have made a final decision before the time I start uni, but I don't know how to assess whether this course is fit for me. Any advice or similar experiences would really help! Thank you.
I feel like this is quite a regular occurrence when people second guess their uni course decisions, but I'm definitely contemplating my choice. Most of my friends have career goals right and know exactly what they wanted to do from a young age. I've always had ideas of what I have wanted to do, but there has never been one that I have been completely set on. I definitely want to go to uni and have that experience but there are so many courses that interest me. For example, I have applied for Primary Ed, but I've also looked at courses in Marketing and Speech and Language Therapy (which has just confused me even more because they are all so different :P ) I'm starting uni in September, and although I understand that you can change courses, this would probably be pretty disruptive moving about. I want to have made a final decision before the time I start uni, but I don't know how to assess whether this course is fit for me. Any advice or similar experiences would really help! Thank you.
Hey,
It's completely normal to second guess your University course decision, especially when there are so many interesting options out there. Many students go through this phase, so you're not alone!
Your situation sounds a lot like what many students face. While some people have clear career goals from a young age, it's perfectly fine to have multiple interests and feel uncertain. University is a time for exploration and discovery.
If you’re starting University in September and feel uncertain, consider attending as many open days or offer holder days as you can. Speak to current students and lecturers about what the course entails. This can give you a better feel for each subject and help you visualise where you might see yourself.
Remember, changing courses is an option if you find your initial choice isn't the right fit. While it might seem disruptive, universities usually have support systems in place to help students transition smoothly. Plus, the sooner you find the right path for you, the better your overall experience will be.
It's also a good idea to talk to a career advisor. They can help you assess your interests and strengths and suggest courses or careers that align with them. At Salford, we have a great career service that can provide this kind of support. Look into similar services at your college or potential University as they will also be able to help.
Ultimately, the best choice is the one that feels right for you. Trust your instincts and try to gather as much information as possible before making your decision.
Good luck!
Cheers,
Arslan – University of Salford Student Representative
Reply 2
Original post by fayebarnard06
Hiya,
I feel like this is quite a regular occurrence when people second guess their uni course decisions, but I'm definitely contemplating my choice. Most of my friends have career goals right and know exactly what they wanted to do from a young age. I've always had ideas of what I have wanted to do, but there has never been one that I have been completely set on. I definitely want to go to uni and have that experience but there are so many courses that interest me. For example, I have applied for Primary Ed, but I've also looked at courses in Marketing and Speech and Language Therapy (which has just confused me even more because they are all so different :P ) I'm starting uni in September, and although I understand that you can change courses, this would probably be pretty disruptive moving about. I want to have made a final decision before the time I start uni, but I don't know how to assess whether this course is fit for me. Any advice or similar experiences would really help! Thank you.
I feel like this is quite a regular occurrence when people second guess their uni course decisions, but I'm definitely contemplating my choice. Most of my friends have career goals right and know exactly what they wanted to do from a young age. I've always had ideas of what I have wanted to do, but there has never been one that I have been completely set on. I definitely want to go to uni and have that experience but there are so many courses that interest me. For example, I have applied for Primary Ed, but I've also looked at courses in Marketing and Speech and Language Therapy (which has just confused me even more because they are all so different :P ) I'm starting uni in September, and although I understand that you can change courses, this would probably be pretty disruptive moving about. I want to have made a final decision before the time I start uni, but I don't know how to assess whether this course is fit for me. Any advice or similar experiences would really help! Thank you.
Hey @fayebarnard06,
Don't worry - lots of students (including me!) have second guessed their choice of course at times, so you're definitely not alone.
I think it's important to remember that although some people know what they want to do as a career at this point in their lives, lots of people don't - and you don't necessarily need to know to attend university. It's not uncommon to end up in a field completely unrelated to your degree a few years down the line, and choosing one course over another doesn't mean you can't return to that non-degree field at a later point in your life.
Ultimately, I chose my course (Fine Art) because it was something I loved learning about, and whilst I've second guessed it here and there much like everyone else, I still really love the subject and don't regret it in the slightest. It might not be exactly where I end up in the long term, but the process of getting to know more about it has definitely been worth it.
If you're struggling to choose between courses, take a closer look at each course's modules and try evaluating what you'd enjoy learning about most. Maybe read up on some alumni stories/graduate destinations if they're available to you on your university's website as well - they might offer you a better idea of the various paths open to you through that particular degree. And follwing up on Arslan's advice above, consider having a chat with a careers advisor! They can be a super useful resource in helping you realise what exactly it is you want both out of a degree, and in the longer term, out of a career.
Good luck, and hope all goes well! 🙂
Eve (Kingston Rep).
(edited 10 months ago)
Original post by fayebarnard06
Hiya,
I feel like this is quite a regular occurrence when people second guess their uni course decisions, but I'm definitely contemplating my choice. Most of my friends have career goals right and know exactly what they wanted to do from a young age. I've always had ideas of what I have wanted to do, but there has never been one that I have been completely set on. I definitely want to go to uni and have that experience but there are so many courses that interest me. For example, I have applied for Primary Ed, but I've also looked at courses in Marketing and Speech and Language Therapy (which has just confused me even more because they are all so different :P ) I'm starting uni in September, and although I understand that you can change courses, this would probably be pretty disruptive moving about. I want to have made a final decision before the time I start uni, but I don't know how to assess whether this course is fit for me. Any advice or similar experiences would really help! Thank you.
I feel like this is quite a regular occurrence when people second guess their uni course decisions, but I'm definitely contemplating my choice. Most of my friends have career goals right and know exactly what they wanted to do from a young age. I've always had ideas of what I have wanted to do, but there has never been one that I have been completely set on. I definitely want to go to uni and have that experience but there are so many courses that interest me. For example, I have applied for Primary Ed, but I've also looked at courses in Marketing and Speech and Language Therapy (which has just confused me even more because they are all so different :P ) I'm starting uni in September, and although I understand that you can change courses, this would probably be pretty disruptive moving about. I want to have made a final decision before the time I start uni, but I don't know how to assess whether this course is fit for me. Any advice or similar experiences would really help! Thank you.
Hi! You are definitely not alone in second guessing your university course choice, almost everyone I know (including myself) has done it at some point, even those who are confident in their future career choices. My main advice would be to look in detail into the types of jobs or further qualifications that you could go into from your undergraduate, as well as the individual modules covered on each course. I would always recommend going for whatever you think you would get the most enjoyment out of, even if it doesn't seem like an obvious choice. I know quite a few people who completed their first year at university in one course and then switched onto a different course at the end, essentially restarting their university journey (this of course has its cons in terms of finance which is something to remember) and they are now a lot happier. There are also quite a few universities that will let you take a minor in one or two subjects alongside your major in first year. For example, I am on a Psychology BSc, but in first year I was able to take a minor in International Relations, which I really enjoyed but I decided at the end that I still preferred psychology. So you may want to look into whether the universities you are considering offer this as a pathway if you would like it.
Best of luck for your future decisions!
-Kat (2nd Year Psychology Undergrad @ Lancaster Uni)
Original post by fayebarnard06
Hiya,
I feel like this is quite a regular occurrence when people second guess their uni course decisions, but I'm definitely contemplating my choice. Most of my friends have career goals right and know exactly what they wanted to do from a young age. I've always had ideas of what I have wanted to do, but there has never been one that I have been completely set on. I definitely want to go to uni and have that experience but there are so many courses that interest me. For example, I have applied for Primary Ed, but I've also looked at courses in Marketing and Speech and Language Therapy (which has just confused me even more because they are all so different :P ) I'm starting uni in September, and although I understand that you can change courses, this would probably be pretty disruptive moving about. I want to have made a final decision before the time I start uni, but I don't know how to assess whether this course is fit for me. Any advice or similar experiences would really help! Thank you.
I feel like this is quite a regular occurrence when people second guess their uni course decisions, but I'm definitely contemplating my choice. Most of my friends have career goals right and know exactly what they wanted to do from a young age. I've always had ideas of what I have wanted to do, but there has never been one that I have been completely set on. I definitely want to go to uni and have that experience but there are so many courses that interest me. For example, I have applied for Primary Ed, but I've also looked at courses in Marketing and Speech and Language Therapy (which has just confused me even more because they are all so different :P ) I'm starting uni in September, and although I understand that you can change courses, this would probably be pretty disruptive moving about. I want to have made a final decision before the time I start uni, but I don't know how to assess whether this course is fit for me. Any advice or similar experiences would really help! Thank you.
@fayebarnard06
It is completely normal to be indecisive about what you want to study at uni, when you have so many varied interests. It's okay to be interested in many things, but it's important to think about what you can see yourself studying for three years and what you would quickly lose interest in.
Think about whether there are common threads between the degrees you are interested in. Do they all require interpersonal skills? Communication skills? Creativity? Think about the skills that you have, things that people have told you you're good at, and what subject area or degree would best make use of these skills. Think also about what you enjoy.
Consider life post university. Is your aim to get a good degree and to think about options afterwards or do you want a degree that is tailored to a specific career? Both options have their pros and cons. What suits your personality type or long-term goals?
You might be able to gain some work experience or be able to shadow a person over the summer so that you can find out what it's really like to work in a particular role. You could also consider taking a gap year so you have more time to think about what you would you like to do and to explore different options
Try not to panic! You don't have to have your whole life figured out, but it's good to think about what you would be happy studying for the next three years : )
All the best,
Oluwatosin – 3rd year student – University of Huddersfield
Reply 5
Hey,
I'm Haya and I'm a final year medical student.
Its totally normal to second guess your course choice and I'd like to let you know that there's nothing wrong with it!
I believe the best way to look at it is to start the course you chose (Primary Ed) and see if you really are passionate about it. If you love the course work, then you'll definitely gravitate towards it and stick to it, but if you don't end up liking it, I think you should consider speaking to an academic advisor and see your options ! You're not going to enjoy your time at uni if you're going to do a course you end up disliking.
Sometimes people study a degree and work in a whole different domain so don't stress yourself if you don't have everything planned out. <3
Best of luck with everything,
Haya - MBBS V
I'm Haya and I'm a final year medical student.
Its totally normal to second guess your course choice and I'd like to let you know that there's nothing wrong with it!
I believe the best way to look at it is to start the course you chose (Primary Ed) and see if you really are passionate about it. If you love the course work, then you'll definitely gravitate towards it and stick to it, but if you don't end up liking it, I think you should consider speaking to an academic advisor and see your options ! You're not going to enjoy your time at uni if you're going to do a course you end up disliking.
Sometimes people study a degree and work in a whole different domain so don't stress yourself if you don't have everything planned out. <3
Best of luck with everything,
Haya - MBBS V
Reply 6
Hi,
It's completely normal to have doubts over which course to do!
Is there something in particular that made you want to do those courses? I would maybe make a list of the reasons why you prefer that that course over the other, and have a look into the jobs you can do after uni with those degrees. I would suggest that if there's a course that you think you'd enjoy the most, then that probably is the best option, as you'll be spending 3 years studying that subject, and your postgrad jobs may be in a similar field, therefore it's quite important that you actually like what your going to be spending a significant amount of time doing.
If you find that you want to switch courses, normally its not too much of a complicated process, as long as there's spaces on the other course still. I know quite a few people who have switched courses while at uni in the few weeks, and they found the swap fine.
I would also recommend that you attend a open day over summer, so that you can have a chat with the lecturer's and you may find yourself naturally more drawn towards one course, after visiting the university again.
Good luck,
Suzan - Student Ambassador
It's completely normal to have doubts over which course to do!
Is there something in particular that made you want to do those courses? I would maybe make a list of the reasons why you prefer that that course over the other, and have a look into the jobs you can do after uni with those degrees. I would suggest that if there's a course that you think you'd enjoy the most, then that probably is the best option, as you'll be spending 3 years studying that subject, and your postgrad jobs may be in a similar field, therefore it's quite important that you actually like what your going to be spending a significant amount of time doing.
If you find that you want to switch courses, normally its not too much of a complicated process, as long as there's spaces on the other course still. I know quite a few people who have switched courses while at uni in the few weeks, and they found the swap fine.
I would also recommend that you attend a open day over summer, so that you can have a chat with the lecturer's and you may find yourself naturally more drawn towards one course, after visiting the university again.
Good luck,
Suzan - Student Ambassador
Original post by fayebarnard06
Hiya,
I feel like this is quite a regular occurrence when people second guess their uni course decisions, but I'm definitely contemplating my choice. Most of my friends have career goals right and know exactly what they wanted to do from a young age. I've always had ideas of what I have wanted to do, but there has never been one that I have been completely set on. I definitely want to go to uni and have that experience but there are so many courses that interest me. For example, I have applied for Primary Ed, but I've also looked at courses in Marketing and Speech and Language Therapy (which has just confused me even more because they are all so different :P ) I'm starting uni in September, and although I understand that you can change courses, this would probably be pretty disruptive moving about. I want to have made a final decision before the time I start uni, but I don't know how to assess whether this course is fit for me. Any advice or similar experiences would really help! Thank you.
I feel like this is quite a regular occurrence when people second guess their uni course decisions, but I'm definitely contemplating my choice. Most of my friends have career goals right and know exactly what they wanted to do from a young age. I've always had ideas of what I have wanted to do, but there has never been one that I have been completely set on. I definitely want to go to uni and have that experience but there are so many courses that interest me. For example, I have applied for Primary Ed, but I've also looked at courses in Marketing and Speech and Language Therapy (which has just confused me even more because they are all so different :P ) I'm starting uni in September, and although I understand that you can change courses, this would probably be pretty disruptive moving about. I want to have made a final decision before the time I start uni, but I don't know how to assess whether this course is fit for me. Any advice or similar experiences would really help! Thank you.
Hey there!
Start by identifying your interests. This could range from programming to history. Weigh the practical aspects of potential careers, such as job demand and salary expectations. Next, match your interests with potential roles and evaluate each against the practical parameters. This can steer you towards a career that both interests you and holds promise. Select the appropriate degree based on your potential job list. It’s ok to choose the course before the university. Approach the process systematically, breaking it down into manageable steps. Seek real experiences to choose the right university. Attend open days, use platforms to connect with students, and ask people in your field of interest. Once you make a choice, reflect on whether it aligns with your aspirations. Remember, this decision is personal, so trust your instincts. Good luck!
Ilya
Reply 8
Original post by fayebarnard06
Hiya,
I feel like this is quite a regular occurrence when people second guess their uni course decisions, but I'm definitely contemplating my choice. Most of my friends have career goals right and know exactly what they wanted to do from a young age. I've always had ideas of what I have wanted to do, but there has never been one that I have been completely set on. I definitely want to go to uni and have that experience but there are so many courses that interest me. For example, I have applied for Primary Ed, but I've also looked at courses in Marketing and Speech and Language Therapy (which has just confused me even more because they are all so different :P ) I'm starting uni in September, and although I understand that you can change courses, this would probably be pretty disruptive moving about. I want to have made a final decision before the time I start uni, but I don't know how to assess whether this course is fit for me. Any advice or similar experiences would really help! Thank you.
I feel like this is quite a regular occurrence when people second guess their uni course decisions, but I'm definitely contemplating my choice. Most of my friends have career goals right and know exactly what they wanted to do from a young age. I've always had ideas of what I have wanted to do, but there has never been one that I have been completely set on. I definitely want to go to uni and have that experience but there are so many courses that interest me. For example, I have applied for Primary Ed, but I've also looked at courses in Marketing and Speech and Language Therapy (which has just confused me even more because they are all so different :P ) I'm starting uni in September, and although I understand that you can change courses, this would probably be pretty disruptive moving about. I want to have made a final decision before the time I start uni, but I don't know how to assess whether this course is fit for me. Any advice or similar experiences would really help! Thank you.
Hi there,
Don't worry you are not alone in this! Lots of people are unsure of what they want to do as a career, or what they want to do at uni so it is definitely not just you.
One thing that helped me to decide was just going to different open days and going to subject talks in a couple of areas that I was interested in. From this I could see what I liked the look of and what I might enjoy. You still have time to attend any summer open days that may come up or if you get the chance to go to any offer holder days or applicant open days I would strongly suggest doing this as it might help you to make up your mind on what you want to do.
If you do go to any open days, talking to people there who may take the subject is a great way to find out a bit more about the subject and if it is something that you enjoy. This gives you a bit of a different perspective from the module tutors so if you can this is a great way of finding out more information.
I would also have a look if you can chat to any current students. At Hallam, some students are on the Ambassador Platform where you can talk to current students about their course or just any questions in general. Have a look to see if this is something your university participates in and if there is anyone on there you can talk to about the course! As your courses involve placements, it may be helpful to ask how they have found the placements too as this will be a big part of the course.
Looking at the jobs you could do after and seeing what you might enjoy is also helpful as it can help you to imagine what your future may look like depending on which course you choose to do.
Try not to worry too much as you can always transfer courses. While this is a bit of a pain, at least you know you have the option if you need it so don't put too much pressure on yourself making the 'perfect' choice for you.
I hope some of this helps and good luck at uni,
Lucy -SHU student ambassador
Reply 9
Original post by fayebarnard06
Hiya,
I feel like this is quite a regular occurrence when people second guess their uni course decisions, but I'm definitely contemplating my choice. Most of my friends have career goals right and know exactly what they wanted to do from a young age. I've always had ideas of what I have wanted to do, but there has never been one that I have been completely set on. I definitely want to go to uni and have that experience but there are so many courses that interest me. For example, I have applied for Primary Ed, but I've also looked at courses in Marketing and Speech and Language Therapy (which has just confused me even more because they are all so different :P ) I'm starting uni in September, and although I understand that you can change courses, this would probably be pretty disruptive moving about. I want to have made a final decision before the time I start uni, but I don't know how to assess whether this course is fit for me. Any advice or similar experiences would really help! Thank you.
I feel like this is quite a regular occurrence when people second guess their uni course decisions, but I'm definitely contemplating my choice. Most of my friends have career goals right and know exactly what they wanted to do from a young age. I've always had ideas of what I have wanted to do, but there has never been one that I have been completely set on. I definitely want to go to uni and have that experience but there are so many courses that interest me. For example, I have applied for Primary Ed, but I've also looked at courses in Marketing and Speech and Language Therapy (which has just confused me even more because they are all so different :P ) I'm starting uni in September, and although I understand that you can change courses, this would probably be pretty disruptive moving about. I want to have made a final decision before the time I start uni, but I don't know how to assess whether this course is fit for me. Any advice or similar experiences would really help! Thank you.
Hi there,
It is normal to second guess your course! I've done it myself, and I know plenty of other people who have gone through the same things.
Similarly, I am totally unsure of what I want to do. I don't feel particularly strongly about any career choices, and because my course can lead me in multiple different directions, I have found it hard to narrow it down. However, I chose something I have enjoyed throughout the entirety of my studies and that would give me good prospects, so I feel quite secure in my decision.
I think it would be beneficial for you to talk to a careers advisor or a similar member of staff, your family and friends, and current students at your desired university. Voicing your ideas to others can really help you understand them better, and you can get some great feedback on what you can do to help yourself decide! I think talking to current students doing the courses you are interested in would also be useful, as you can ask them about their career paths/future plans to get a better idea of what you might want to do.
Also, remember that so many people end up in a career that has not a lot to do with their degree. This is perfectly normal! The skills and knowledge you can gain from coming to university are so valuable, and can be transferable to almost everything you do. Consider your options, talk to those close to you, and ultimately make a decision that you feel is right for you!
I hope this helps,
Isabella 🙂
Third-year Geography with a Year Abroad Student
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