I am conflicted! :(

[MachLoop]

Hey guys,

I am now in my second/third year of university, and my current focus is a co-major in Political Science and International Studies. For the longest time I have wanted to work for the State Department or the UN because I want to help people from a political standpoint, and I LOVE traveling. But now I am conflicted because, while I still want those jobs, some parts of my major are so incredibly boring I feel myself longing for my other passion--the one I find incredibly fun--biology.

So I have added a biology minor. But I think about majoring in biology and the thought feels so freeing! But then I think about becoming a biologist by profession and while that sounds amazing, I would not be in the same position to help those less fortunate and "change the world" for the better.

So I am pretty depressed about it I know it's pretty ridiculous, but I don't know what to do! Any tips?

 

[Natalie101]

Look at the end result and work backwards. Try interning in the field that you are interested in. If you are interested in pro bono work, there are opportunities in teaching-tutoring kids etc. with a biology degree. Missions, peace corp.

 

[blackribbon]

How many people with biology degrees actually get jobs as a biologist...and what type of biologist would you want to be?

I think you need to go see if your school offers some career counseling. I agree with Natalie and think you need to start researching what it is that you want to do for the rest of your life versus what you find interesting to study in school. When you have a goal, the major course of study can be figured out and you will have a reason to study for the "boring" classes.

 

[meryberry]

Consider all pros and cons of two direction.
Try to listen to yourself, your intuition, and heart.

 

[parsley]

In biology, the undergraduate degree is a foundation for further research and study. You can get into MS and PhD programs where you will pursue research, but hopping out of a BS -- especially spread so thin -- will not lead to much. There are state jobs in agricultural education, but those are low pay, and student loans will weigh you down.

Look at the Department of State specific job listings -- there are ones related to improving or coordinating agriculture, energy, water, geologic resources, and other science-related topics. You might also look into USAID.

I have found that the best way to decide, is to take whatever opportunities come across your path. Ride the wave of needs instead of anchoring yourself into a concrete and predetermined plan. In public service jobs, the needs continually change according to what is going on in the world. Stay active in it. Volunteer for relief efforts, and see where it takes you. Attend seminars, and see who you meet. Make connections.

 

[John MacK]

Hey guys,

I am now in my second/third year of university, and my current focus is a co-major in Political Science and International Studies. For the longest time I have wanted to work for the State Department or the UN because I want to help people from a political standpoint, and I LOVE traveling. But now I am conflicted because, while I still want those jobs, some parts of my major are so incredibly boring I feel myself longing for my other passion--the one I find incredibly fun--biology.

So I have added a biology minor. But I think about majoring in biology and the thought feels so freeing! But then I think about becoming a biologist by profession and while that sounds amazing, I would not be in the same position to help those less fortunate and "change the world" for the better.

So I am pretty depressed about it I know it's pretty ridiculous, but I don't know what to do! Any tips?

I too have struggled with trying to figure out what I want to do with my life, and what to major in in order to accomplish those goals. I have changed my college major four times and I have only just completed my second year of college. I have now finally come to a decision on my major and couldn't be happier. It really comes down to which major gives you the most options. Yes you will be happier at one job or another, but ultimately it's about options so you aren't stuck on one track with no way to get off if you want to later. A science degree gives you more options, a political science degree locks you in. I don't want to tell you which way to go, but in my opinion it's all about options. I'd rather be able to change careers if I wanted than to be stuck doing something I don't want to for the rest of my life.

Hope this helps.

 

[Godislove94]

Pray, pray, pray! I started out in a different major my first year of college until God used some very intense and difficult circumstances to turn me around and put what His plan for me was on my heart. It was there, and deep down it burned like fire and wouldn't leave alone until I prayed about it.

I also agree with Natalie. Also, take a break from your major and spend time focusing on general classes that you need to get out of the way regardless of your major, then see how it goes. Best of luck and I will keep you in my prayers.

 

[parsley]

It really comes down to which major gives you the most options.

Glad you found a solution! I hope you were able to use previous credits.