Selecting the ideal major as we embark on our university journey is a daunting yet crucial decision. Our future, both personally and professionally, hinges on this vital choice. In Bangladesh, our culture often exerts significant influence on this decision, with stereotypical parental expectations looming large. It’s not uncommon for the pressure to conform to the parental mold to be intense, as only a selected few majors are generally accepted: engineering and medicine. This societal norm often places an overwhelming burden on young minds. This burden forces them to align with parental expectations which causes them to sometimes sideline their dreams.
However, it is vital to remember that the journey towards a victorious and gratifying life starts with following dreams. To make the right choice we have to begin with understanding who we really are. At this early stage in life, it can be difficult to predict our future or define clear goals for ourselves understandably. Still, through knowing more about our strengths and weaknesses intimately, we can approach selecting a good major with clarity and self-assuredness.
I have been lucky enough to follow this principle from my personal experiences. Since I was in school, I knew what I was good at and what I was not. My abilities and real interests were known to me. When choosing a major, instead of being influenced by other factors such as my parents’ opinions, I chose myself. Throughout my educational and professional life this process of finding out who I am and being determined has been my guiding light.
The first step towards selecting the right major is self-discovery. This should begin by unraveling our key passions and interests, taking into consideration academic records as well as other achievements both in and outside of school, and reflecting on those moments we felt really fulfilled. In addition, we must take note of the areas where our talents lie such as creative thinking, problem solving, leadership or communication. We need also to know our weaknesses which will enlighten us on the decisions that aid in personal growth.
Once we have a better sense of self, it is now time to explore the wide variety of majors and fields available to us. Look beyond what our parents or society expects from us. Trust that we know what is best for ourselves; believe in our potential that cannot be matched by any other person. Every person is unique hence our way to success should also be so.
To conclude, one of life’s most crucial choices is opting for the right major before entering the university. Our investigation should involve which way corresponds with our innermost desires and aspirations. For each one of us, it is necessary to remember that everyone’s path is different. A gratifying learning expedition begins when people know themselves, have faith in their talents, and follow their interests. Certainty of our abilities will enable us to achieve success and continue future endeavors with confidence.
To read more blogs, click here.
Writer,
Sheikh Sidratul Muntaha
Intern, Content Writing Department
YSSE