I Started This Degree, But It's Not For Me?
A few weeks ago I gave a presentation on my experiences in industry, with a bit of a reflective on how I got into construction, leaving architecture behind. A typical question I get asked on the back of these presentations is "I started this degree, but I really don't like it, and I think I want to do something else, do I have to stick this out, because, I started?"
No, no you don't.
At the young age of 18, how are we expected to know what it is we want to do exactly? Or what certain industries look like, the types of opportunities available within, or whether we are even ready to continue further studies! So the majority of us end up entering a degree that is mildly reflective of some of the VCE subjects that we enjoyed and maybe did well in. Precisely what I did.
So we start said degree without full knowledge of what else is available. Maybe it's an elective subject, a presentation, a conversation, that has piqued interest in another stream. It's totally ok coming to the realization that your current degree is not something you want to pursue in the long term. Actually, hats off to you, because you could be saving yourself years of going against what you really want to do or where your interests lie.
If you're thinking about transitioning streams, majors, degrees, here's a few things you can do:
1. University is a safe space to explore alternative options. You can do this by taking a few electives in other streams to see if they are more engaging and of interest to you. What you may be able to do is integrate what you're currently studying and your electives, finish your current degree, and still attain employment in either discipline - ie. architecture degree with work in construction.
2. Talk to people in industry - yes this means you have to get out there to university or industry events and meet people to discover their journey. By talking to people, you'll be able to see why they decided to transition, to which you may relate. You can also reach out to people on LinkedIn to gain insight into their career trajectory.
3. Think about your goals, values, aspirations your attributes - if you find yourself in an engineering degree but hate maths, well, time to move on. If you find yourself in an architecture degree but prefer working with people, are analytical, like challenges, let's talk about construction. Ask yourself, and honestly answer, what do I enjoy doing, what do I thrive at, where do I see myself in a few years time? Have an introspection and talk to other people who are where you see yourself being, which may mean getting a mentor.
4. Don't underestimate the knowledge and insight your subject lecturers can provide. If you're not comfortable about putting yourself out there in industry, talk to the familiar people in your immediate (academic) network.
5. Finally, take the risk. You have little to lose and all to gain. As long as you are making a strategic, considered decision - go for it. If you're thinking about it, just do it.
I give you permission to switch it up, mix it up, go left instead of right. Just don't quit or hate what you do.
“If you’ve ever considered working in construction, or would like to know more, get in touch with me and let’s see how I can mentor you to get on the path to a career in construction!”