by Erin Riggins, Ph.D.
When making the transition from high school to college, it’s a good time to develop a game plan that will help with smart decision-making during your academic journey. Yes, college can be a blast, but the decisions you make now will affect your future, so choose wisely.
Your academic advisor has most likely told you many of these things I discuss in this article, but now it’s time to listen:
- You don’t have to be what your parents want you to be…and maybe you shouldn’t. If you don’t like people, don’t be a nurse. If you don’t like school, don’t be a teacher. If you don’t like chemistry, don’t be a pharmacist. You get the idea! There are so many options for careers you probably haven’t even explored. Do your research.
- Let’s be realistic about your career choice: You may be perfectly capable of completing the coursework, however, one major thing to think about is job availability. There are plenty of lucrative careers in all disciplines, so go with what most interests you — that’s where you’re most likely to succeed.
- If you want to be pre-med, take chemistry! No, not later…now! This same idea goes for several other degree types as well. You can’t put off the hard courses until later because there usually prerequisites for even harder courses.
- Plan your schedule several semesters out. If not, you will end up with scheduling issues that will quickly turn a four-year degree into a five- or six-year degree, and not the kind with extra letters at the end of your name. A two-year or four-year degree only actually follows that time frame if you are very careful about scheduling. For example, some courses are only taught in the fall, but part two of the course is only taught in the spring. If you miss part one in the fall, then you’re immediately behind an entire year. See your advisor often!
- Don’t just follow a plan of action from your current college. While those are great guidelines, if you plan to transfer to any other institution, you need to cross-reference guidelines from both institutions.
- Don’t underestimate the value of real-world experience. In many cases, you need some experience in your profession, otherwise, getting a job can be very hard. Gain experience through research, fellowships, internships and/or employment. That’s what future employers will look for.
- Sometimes there’s no going back! Maybe you think you’ll get a second chance if you don’t give it your all the first few semesters, but many times there are no do-overs. If you sleep through your alarm one too many times and miss that 8 a.m. algebra class, you may no longer be able to get into your program of choice. Make sure that you don’t limit your future choices by the choices you make now.
- Online courses shouldn’t be your first option. While they are convenient, that is only because of the ability to complete the coursework online. Remember, these classes are usually harder, move more quickly, and require much more organization than traditional onsite courses. This doesn’t mean you can’t be successful, but be prepared up front. If science just isn’t your thing, I wouldn’t advise taking it online.
- Play a role in financing your education. Whether you spend hours searching for scholarships and writing essays, or work your way through school, let it be your responsibility. While support is wonderful, you’ll appreciate the money you are spending, if it’s “yours.”
- Don’t be afraid to change your mind. I wouldn’t suggest wandering aimlessly for too long because that’s just time and money going down the drain, but there’s a great possibility that you’ll get into classes and change your mind completely about what you want to do in life. Think carefully every class you take from the very beginning.
- Your friends have been your rock, your entertainment, your support, your right hand person, but now they are your competition! I don’t mean build a wall and take aim, but I you need to realize there are only so many positions to be filled. What gives you the edge over your peers? If you don’t know, figure it out soon.
- Get involved and have fun! When you can take ownership of your schooling, you will often feel more comfortable, more driven, and be more inclined to use the resources provided to help you succeed. This time will fly by so make the most of it. You can be academically responsible and still have a blast.
Dr. Erin Riggins is a science instructor at MGCCC Jefferson Davis campus. She also has a biomedical research program at the campus that is funded by the National Institutes of Health through the MS-INBRE program. She loves teaching and research, but can also be found being a busy wife and mom of two children.