What if your chosen field of study does not feel right?

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During studies, you may sometimes feel that the chosen field isn’t quite right. Don’t rush to discontinue your studies! Instead, think through a new plan first. Keep calm and take time to reflect on your wishes and possibilities. Discuss your doubts with someone who can provide support and information. It would be good if your family or friends could support you. However, issues related to your studies or career are worth discussing with an academic affairs specialist or a career counsellor.

Sometimes, doubts may arise because you are adjusting to a new life, which takes a lot of time and energy. If there is too much of everything at the same time – a new school and a different way of studying, new people, a new city and independent life, homesickness, and missing friends, etc. – it can cause anxiety, fatigue, and loneliness, leading to doubts about your field of study. To settle in successfully,

• attend classes regularly, don’t hesitate to ask about how things work to get a better understanding of what, when, and how needs to be done;
• get to know your fellow students, as it is easier and more enjoyable to settle into university life together;
• create a new life rhythm that suits you: when you are in class, when you study independently, eat, sleep or exercise; what activities and entertainment fit into your life, etc. Also, stay in touch with your family and friends.

If, after you have adjusted to university life, it still seems that the field of study might suit you but there is too much or too little of certain topics in the curriculum, the study is too theoretical and broad, or too narrow, it is worthwhile to take a good look at what you want and compare it with what the curriculum offers. The content may be more general and theoretical at the beginning of the studies. However, you can choose more practical or interesting courses from other curricula or educational institutions to balance it. You may think about possible traineeship, study abroad or job opportunities, volunteer activities, or finding interesting projects outside the curriculum. At the university, for example, you can choose a minor specialisation to tailor the studies to your interests.

However, if you have come to a clear understanding that the chosen field is not suitable, there is no point in regretting or blaming yourself. Instead, focus on what would suit you, and thoroughly analyse yourself and the various work and study opportunities. Discussing with a career counsellor may be helpful, because sometimes it can be difficult to trust yourself after your previous choice, and you may not be aware of different opportunities. Setting a new goal and a clear action plan can help you move forward more confidently. You may find a simple solution – for example, you can switch to another curriculum or reapply. At other times, you may need more time to think through what to do and find new goals.

When in doubt about the suitability of your field of study, consider the following questions.

• Who am I and what do I want?
• What are the suitable opportunities for me?
• Where and how to proceed?

Discuss your thoughts and opportunities with a career counsellor. Click the button below to book an appointment with the career counsellor of the University of Tartu Counselling Centre.

NB! The form is in Estonian, please use Google translate for translating the form.