4 Ways to Overcome Uncertainty in Choosing a College Course

Going into college, indeed, is one the biggest steps in every student’s life. While it is exciting and fun, the thought of starting a new campus life can also be coupled with stress and anxiety for some. Coming up with such decisions will also mean a lot of pressure for young students, especially since college is considered a big, long-term investment.

There are a lot of factors that affect student’s decisions in choosing a college course in the Philippines. It ranges from the fear of being stuck in a course you don’t really like, being alienated, or not meeting the course requirements; while some just simply haven’t figured out yet which path they want to take.

Sure, life is full of uncertainties but this should not hamper you from achieving your life #goals. Here are some ways on how you can overcome your doubts in choosing a college course:

Discover your passion

Before enrolling in a university, one important thing to remember is to identify which college course you really want to be in as schools have different course specializations. As part of the efforts in bridging the gap and lessening mismatch in student’s inclinations and course, the government provides career orientations and examinations in different schools all over the country. Remember the National Career Assessment Examination (NCAE) you took in junior high school? It aims to determine your strengths in different fields. You can also try the Student’s Career Opportunity and Personality Evaluator (SCOPE) offered by STI Colleges. SCOPE is a computerized program that helps you determine the best career that fits your personality. You can take this test in less than 30-minutes and is also downloadable in Google Play, or the App Store.

Consider professional counseling

Running through a laundry list of considerations may feel quite troubling. Students tend to take advice from people who they think have greater experiences in life, especially their parents. While it is not bad to do so, talking to a professional will also provide you with more options. Having a session with your school’s guidance counselor can help you understand which courses match your capabilities and interest. You may also be even asked to take psychometric tests to point out not only your strengths but also your weaknesses. Professional counselors will explain to you the results of these tests and discuss the possible steps you can take and its advantages and disadvantages, to better prepare you for college.

Do your own research

One of the fears of incoming college students is that they do not know much about the course they are planning to take and are afraid that they may fail to meet the requirements. You can eliminate this by doing your own research. For example, if you are seeking a career in the engineering industry but don’t know which field of engineering you might fit in, try searching its branches on the internet to find out which one best matches your interests and dreams. You can also visit the specific college department of the school you are considering to enroll in to have a feel of what it’s like to study there. You might even get a chance to talk with upperclassmen and know what their experiences are like.

Don’t forget your support system

Amidst all doubts and anxieties, always remember that you are not alone and there are people who are rooting for you! College life is an exciting chapter of your life and you have your parents, friends, and mentors to help you achieve it. Don’t be afraid to tell them your frustrations, voice out your concerns, ask questions, and share with them your hopes and dreams.

Ready for college? Visit Edukasyon.ph and discover thousands of schools and top college courses that could best fit you!

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