Worried about my future

5

I am a year twelve student and I study maths, physics and history. I’m really unsure about my future and am worried that I will be leaving higher education research “too late” since I don’t know which paths I should be taking. I’m really interested in history and find myself engrossed in topics far off of the a-level curriculum simply because I enjoy it so much. I’m also feeling less encouraged by maths and physics recently due to the workload and in comparison to history I do not enjoy these subjects at school as much. My grades and averages at school are high though my history grades reflect my employees interest in the subject and in turn I tend to complete more extra studying for this subject. I’m aware that stem pathways are regarded as more prestigious, and can lead to higher status/pay careers, but I find myself drawn to history and writing. I’m open to apprenticeships and also a university pathway but am worried about costs of uni and that I may make the wrong choice for my future. Where should I start? What should I do to inspire myself for the university future I could have?

Reply 1

McGinger

20

Original post

by Sofiagerbinoo

I am a year twelve student and I study maths, physics and history. I’m really unsure about my future and am worried that I will be leaving higher education research “too late” since I don’t know which paths I should be taking. I’m really interested in history and find myself engrossed in topics far off of the a-level curriculum simply because I enjoy it so much. I’m also feeling less encouraged by maths and physics recently due to the workload and in comparison to history I do not enjoy these subjects at school as much. My grades and averages at school are high though my history grades reflect my employees interest in the subject and in turn I tend to complete more extra studying for this subject. I’m aware that stem pathways are regarded as more prestigious, and can lead to higher status/pay careers, but I find myself drawn to history and writing. I’m open to apprenticeships and also a university pathway but am worried about costs of uni and that I may make the wrong choice for my future. Where should I start? What should I do to inspire myself for the university future I could have?

If you are not sure about a degree and whether or not Uni is for you, I'd recommend taking a gap year and doing some interesting things, and then thinking about what you want to do next. Get a job (any job), earn some cash and then do some travel etc - 'time out' at 18 to think about what you want to do next - and why- is never a waste of time.
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Reply 2

OffUniRepRebecca

Official Rep

3

Hi,
It’s completely normal to feel uncertain about your future when finishing A-Levels, especially with so many options available. The good news is that you’re already taking a great first step by reflecting on your interests and strengths!
If you’re considering university, attending open days or campus tours can be incredibly helpful. These events let you explore different campuses, meet current students, and get a sense of what it’s like to live and study there. You can also ask questions about the courses that interest you, such as history, to see if they align with your passion for exploring topics beyond the curriculum.

Take the time to explore your options and talk to teachers, careers advisors, or professionals in fields you’re curious about.
Best of luck with your journey!

Reply 3

stilllearning123

16

Original post

by Sofiagerbinoo

I am a year twelve student and I study maths, physics and history. I’m really unsure about my future and am worried that I will be leaving higher education research “too late” since I don’t know which paths I should be taking. I’m really interested in history and find myself engrossed in topics far off of the a-level curriculum simply because I enjoy it so much. I’m also feeling less encouraged by maths and physics recently due to the workload and in comparison to history I do not enjoy these subjects at school as much. My grades and averages at school are high though my history grades reflect my employees interest in the subject and in turn I tend to complete more extra studying for this subject. I’m aware that stem pathways are regarded as more prestigious, and can lead to higher status/pay careers, but I find myself drawn to history and writing. I’m open to apprenticeships and also a university pathway but am worried about costs of uni and that I may make the wrong choice for my future. Where should I start? What should I do to inspire myself for the university future I could have?

"A person who loves walking will walk far further than someone that likes the destination"- can't remember who 😅

If you love history which is clear to see, do history!
If you like STEM less why would you set yourself up for a life in stem, working a job you'll hate when you could have become something you loved for a small decrease in pay? There are many pathways within History like becoming a professor or an author etc. so if you work at it for long enough the money will come.

Don't let anyone define you, do what you want to do or you might end up regretting it later in life.
Best of luck!

Reply 4

Stiffy Byng

19

Only a few nervous parents and pompous uncles believe that degrees in STEM subjects are "more prestigious" or lead to higher paid or higher status careers than humanities subjects. The reality is that, over time, career success for graduates in humanities and STEM subjects evens out. Most degrees equip most graduates for a wide range of jobs. Relatively few degrees are vocational. Many graduates end up working in a field which has little direct or obvious connection with the subject that they studies at university. Many employers are more interested in the generic skills which graduates obtan through study at university than in specific subject knowledge.

OP, study the subject which most interests you. Where that will lead you is anyone's guess. but it won't confine you to a narrow path.

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