Jack Heaphy
Taking Pride in the Word "Undecided"
To any prospective student reading this, I'm sure you've been prematurely asked what you want to major in, and you've probably answered this question multiple times. Whether it's the awkward small talk made by the coworker of a parent at a random dinner party or the glare of the Common App screen, this question could have brought some stress. You're just a teenager—how are you supposed to know what you want to study and do for the rest of your life?
Some of you may have a perfectly confident and succinct answer and that's great. That was me, discussing my passions for both psychology and theater and my intended career pursuits. However, the second I arrived at Dartmouth, that scripted truth was shattered, and I have already discovered numerous new interests of mine in the short time I've been a student. Dartmouth's liberal arts education encourages consistent intellectual curiosity and exploration. Students here have multiple passions and can learn about virtually anything they choose. I have STEM majors in my acting class and artists in my statistics class.
The word "undecided" can come with a lot of stress and anxiety, but I'm looking at it as an opportunity. It's exciting to think about how much potential the rest of your academic career has; how much there is to explore. Everybody has their own intellectual process- some enter college with an intended major and it's everything they dreamed of. However, most of us don't have the same experience, and that's why academic exploration is important. I chose Dartmouth over a stricter theater program because I wasn't sure I wanted to work in the theater industry and I'm incredibly glad I made that decision because I've discovered a plethora of other subjects that I'm interested in. We have until sophomore year to declare what we want to major in, so there's no rush to dig yourself into a hole if you're not confident it's what you want.
To anyone that isn't sure of what they want to study, I know it's stressful. It's not fair for schools and others in general to expect an eighteen-year-old to know what they want their future to look like, especially when colleges offer classes in subjects that were impossible to study in high school. If you don't have a plan right now, that is perfectly fine; there is no need to have one as a high schooler. Most people are or have been in your shoes, and this is completely normal. Take a breath, relax, and know that you aren't behind anyone else in your academic journey, you just have the opportunity to explore and discover what makes you happy. Take pride in the word "undecided," and remember that it always works out in the end.
Posts You Might Like
I have really enjoyed pushing myself to really learn and grow in my Winter Term classes! Join me as I talk about which classes I am in right now.
Exam at 8am, presentation on zoom, and paper due by noon!
This week, I thought it might be interesting to hear from a few of my friends who are also studying abroad about their experiences!
How a 70-hour intensive was one of the highlights of my winterim.
In this post I will share my goals for the term and some of the academic risks I am taking.
In this post, I write about guest speakers who come to visit Dartmouth.
Let's Get Lost in the Library! A deep dive into the known, unusual, and hidden study spots all around Dartmouth's campus! Up next, Baker Library!
Dartmouth's Chinese New Year celebrations brought a sense of home through themed dining, student-led events, and cultural gatherings, fostering community and appreciation for the holiday.
ENGS 12: Design Thinking—one of Dartmouth's most popular courses. Read on to hear about my experience, key takeaways, and how the class reshaped my approach to creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving.