So what’s your major?

By Carol Horner

Recently I attended an orientation at a top state university that our son was considering.   The sessions were mostly student-run and I was impressed by the maturity and enthusiasm displayed by college-level kids.  It was endearing to see students usher in the “newbees” in their own way and with a manner that was sure to attract new talent to their beloved school. 

 

At the onset of the orientation, the students introduced themselves and rattled off their double majors with minors and side research projects and studies abroad - most impressive and even intimidating to someone looking forward to this next educational step.  I kept peering over at my son to see if his eyes were opened a little wider at the wonder of all that these accomplished students were presenting.  He didn’t seem to be phased.

 

Break-out sessions ensued and our young hosts talked about the details of their class work and academic interests.  At one point I mustered up the nerve to raise my hand and ask what kind of future they were planning with their hard work at the university.  In other words, “What are you going to do with your life?” “What kind of livelihood are you intending with your major area of study?”  Some of the students had grad school in their plans, others would travel, most just weren’t sure what they wanted to do beyond school.  They all giggled nervously as they agreed that it was perfectly acceptable to have no idea what they wanted for their future. 

 

I suppose the reaction of these young adults is to be expected.  After all, how could they know when they’ve never actually had exposure to what life is really like in the professional world?  At the same time, it was scary to think that all this time, money and effort was going into preparation for what?  Nobody is sure? 

 

As I consider all of this I conclude that there is a phenomenon here - the beauty of being young and carefree comes to mind.  As a person in my mid life, I hate to see this free and easy attitude go away too soon.  Yet it is so important to insert some sobriety at just this time in a young person’s life.  High school and college bring on both adventure and a serious side.  I suppose my son - a hard-core Star Wars fanatic would call it the “dark side” - calling them to actually think about their future. 

 

It’s more than staring into a crystal ball.  If it could be so easy we’d all use that method.  But it takes all the good sense, resourcefulness and focus they have.  Are our young ready for this challenge?  I’m sure they’ll agree they need all the help they can get.