When I came to UW-Madison, it felt like everyone already knew their major, career goals, internship ambitions, five-year plan, etc. But honestly, a lot may change when you start taking classes, meeting people and finding out what you like and don’t like.
I believed I was going to be pre-med when I initially arrived into college. That was the idea in my thoughts and for a while it seemed like the way I was intended to go. I am now going into a junior year, I am pre-law. That switch felt massive at first but it also taught me that altering your views does not imply you’re behind. Usually it signifies that you are in touch with yourself.
My number one tip is to start small but start early. Talk to upperclassmen in majors you are thinking of. Even if you feel weird, go to career events. Talk to teachers, TAs, and advisors about the many paths. You don’t have to enter every discussion trying to impress. You only need to be curious.
One helpful UW resource is the Career Exploration Center, especially if you are unsure about your major or career direction. They can help you think through your interests, strengths, and options without making you feel like you need everything decided right away.
And your first job, class, club or internship doesn’t have to be your dream career, either. It just needs to teach you something. The first year is for exploring, for asking questions, for allowing yourself to alter direction.
