Written by: Admin_SheEvo
As I started my path into university, I was faced with a huge problem: I had to choose a degree based on my parents’ goals and expectations instead of my own interests and passions. This is something that a lot of us go through, and it has taught me a lot about family, identity, and finding personal satisfaction.
My degree doesn’t really spark my interest or match up with what I want to do with my life. Instead, it’s a road set by outside forces, mostly my parents’ ideas about what they think is best for my future. They probably mean well and care about you, but the weight of their demands makes it hard to breathe. Every day, I have a lot of different problems inside. On the one hand, I know how lucky I am to be able to go to school and how much my folks have given up to make that happen. I also understand their point of view that a certain degree will help them be financially stable and successful. I feel like I’m living someone else’s dream, though, because I keep making decisions that don’t fit with my own goals.
I’ve learned how to balance responsibility with getting to know myself through this experience. Finding value in a degree that doesn’t fit with my interests is something I’m always trying to do. Outside of school, I’ve had to find ways to grow and explore as a person, making time to follow my own hobbies and dreams.
Of course, it’s not always easy. I’ve had to come to terms with the fact that I feel stuck in a program I didn’t choose. It’s discouraging to see my friends who are really into their fields while I find it hard to get as excited about mine. The need to do well and make my parents proud often clashes with the need to be happy with my life.
I’ve learned that talking to my parents is very important as I go through this difficult process. We’re closer now that we’ve talked openly and honestly about my feelings, goals, and what they expect from me. It’s hard to respect their knowledge and experience while also speaking up for my own goals and dreams. Even though the road I’m on isn’t what I had planned, I’ve learned that it’s important to take advantage of the chances that come my way. In the process, I’ve learned how important it is to have personal freedom, even when there are limits. I’ve looked for internships and extracurricular events that are more in line with my hobbies, giving me a sense of meaning outside of what my school requires.
Overall, even though it may not look like it, I still think it is possible to find a balance between meeting the needs of your family and your own happiness.
