Choosing a specialization or university degree is not easy. We help you make the best decision in 10 simple steps. Decisions that keep you awake
One of the crucial moments during our studies is when it comes time to choose a career or specialization. We have to consider our entire future, clearly know what we are going to study, if we are going to have a
university eTitle and which specialization we should focus on to meet our future goals. Another critical moment is when we have been studying for a while and it's time to choose the appropriate subjects or enroll in a master's degree to obtain our professional specialization. In any case, we find ourselves in the dilemma of having to make decisions that will have an impact on the present and the future, so it is normal that, if we do not have a clear vocation for life, we feel, at the very least, overwhelmed. To make these types of academic decisions, the ideal is to follow a simple method that will clear all our doubts. Let's see it.
1. Self-exploration:
Making a decision like what to study or what our specialization will be requires us to first take some time to talk with ourselves. Paper and pen should also attend the conversation so that we can write down the ideas that come to us. In this journey of self-discovery, it is essential that we know ourselves and reflect on our interests, passions, skills, and values. Let's examine what motivates us and what brings us joy. It is also important to consider the opposite pole: what we hate, the cons, what we do not want to do. By also considering our
strengths and weaknesses, we will identify the areas in which we can excel.
2. Thorough research:
Whether we want to be part of the academic community or we are looking for a specialization that will open the doors to the job market, it is our duty to research different university degrees and fields of study. We must carefully examine the curriculum, job opportunities, and growth prospects in each field. For this, we can use the internet (as expected), but it is also good to consult with academic advisors and seek the advice of professionals in the area that interests us.
3. Practical experience:
It would be very helpful to look for opportunities to gain practical experience in the fields that interest us. Especially when it comes to choosing a specialization, we can do internships, participate in volunteer programs, or work part-time in related areas. This will give us a clearer view of what each field entails and will help us make an informed decision.
4. Networking:
When it comes to making the best decision about our studies or the specialization we want to pursue, there is nothing better than consulting with experts in that field. We can contact professionals and students who are already studying the degree or specialization that interests us and ask for their opinion. It will be very useful to ask about their experiences, challenges, and satisfactions in that field. It also helps a lot to participate in university events, job fairs, sector-related events, and informational talks to expand our network of contacts and gain a broader perspective. We should not be ashamed to ask: most people are happy to help others with so little effort.
5. Consider the future:
Let's take the time to investigate current and future labor market trends and demands, as there are professions that are doomed to disappear which, logically, we must discard. Let's evaluate employment opportunities and growth prospects in the fields that interest us. Take into account factors such as job stability, promotion opportunities, and average salary.
6. Support and guidance:
Remember that we are not alone in this process. Let's seek support and guidance from our teachers, mentors, and academic advisors. They can provide us with valuable information and help us make informed decisions. Especially when we are going to focus our studies on one specialization or another, having the opinion of those who have been our teachers and have a clear view of our abilities and weaknesses is truly valuable.
7. Informed decision-making:
Once we have gathered all the necessary information, it's time to reach a conclusion, although it is likely that during the entire research process we already have a pretty clear idea. We should choose a specialization or degree that aligns with our interests, skills, and long-term goals. Remember that there is no perfect decision, but the most important thing is to make an informed decision and be willing to adapt and grow along the way.
8. Planning and monitoring:
Once the decision is made, it is advisable to follow a series of strategies to not give up or
get demotivated. The first thing is to develop a study plan or an action plan to achieve our goals. Set short, medium, and long-term objectives and develop a plan to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge. Keep track of our progress and be willing to adjust our plan if necessary. We should not forget about rewards. It is common for us to create a strategic plan and be satisfied with achieving the goals, but it is much more fun and motivating if we add rewards associated with the achievements. Depending on the difficulty of the goal, the rewards can range from a dinner with friends to a trip, getting a driver's license, giving ourselves that treat we have been wishing for a long time... It all depends, of course, on our purchasing power, but surely we can find small things that make us happy so that the challenge of following our study plan motivates us even more.
9. Flexibility and adaptability:
We should not be overly rigid or think that our decisions are irreversible. Let's recognize that our choices can evolve over time. University life is an opportunity to explore different fields and discover new passions. Let's be open to adjusting our trajectory if we feel that a change is necessary or desired. Changing course does not mean that we have wasted time: perhaps we needed to follow that path to realize that it was not the right one. Additionally, any experience and knowledge we have gained will always be useful.
10. Confidence in ourselves:
Ultimately, let's trust in our abilities and in the decision we have made. Let's know that we are capable of facing the challenges that await us in our chosen specialization or degree. Let's be prepared to work hard, persevere, and grow as we progress on our path. Take the necessary time, research, reflect, and trust yourself. Remember that this decision does not define your destiny, but it marks the beginning of an exciting adventure of learning and personal growth. We will be here to help you every step of the way!
