How to Decide If Your College Degree Plan Makes Sense as a High School Student
Choosing a college degree plan as a high school student can feel like trying to solve a puzzle without all the pieces. You’re excited about the future but also a little overwhelmed by questions: Is this major practical? Will I actually enjoy these classes? Am I setting myself up for success—or burnout? If you’re staring at a degree plan draft and wondering, “Is this even possible?” here’s a practical guide to help you evaluate your choices and make confident decisions.
Start with Passion vs. Practicality
Let’s get one thing straight: there’s no “perfect” degree plan. However, the best plans strike a balance between what you love and what aligns with real-world opportunities. For example, if you’re passionate about art history but worried about job prospects, consider pairing it with a minor in museum studies, digital design, or business. This way, you fuel your interests while building skills employers value.
Ask yourself:
– Do I see myself staying engaged with these subjects for 4+ years?
– Are there careers related to this field that excite me?
– What skills will I gain, and how versatile are they?
If your answers lean heavily toward “I don’t know,” spend time exploring career paths through internships, job shadowing, or online resources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Analyze the Course Load
A common mistake high schoolers make is underestimating college-level coursework. That “possible” degree plan might become a nightmare if you’re juggling five advanced STEM classes in one semester. Review the curriculum for your intended major:
– Prerequisites: Do you need to complete math or science courses early?
– Sequencing: Are certain classes only offered in specific semesters?
– Electives: Are there fun or interdisciplinary courses to break up heavy terms?
For instance, an engineering student might balance calculus-heavy semesters with creative electives like technical writing or entrepreneurship. Use tools like degree-planning apps or spreadsheets to map out your semesters visually. If a term looks overwhelmingly busy, adjust early to avoid burnout.
Talk to People Who’ve Been There
Your guidance counselor, teachers, and college advisors are great resources, but don’t stop there. Reach out to current college students or alumni in your desired field. Ask:
– What surprised you about this major?
– Were there classes that were harder—or more rewarding—than expected?
– What’s one thing you’d change about your degree plan?
For example, a computer science major might warn you about the time commitment for coding projects, while a psychology student could highlight the importance of research experience for grad school applications. These insights help you spot blind spots in your plan.
Consider Flexibility and Backup Options
Life rarely goes exactly as planned—and neither do college journeys. Maybe you’ll discover a new interest in environmental policy halfway through your biology degree. Or perhaps you’ll realize medical school isn’t for you after all. That’s why flexibility matters. Look for:
– General education requirements: Can you fulfill these with courses that align with potential alternate majors?
– Double majors or minors: Does your school make it easy to add a second focus?
– Transfer credits: Will AP/IB classes or dual-enrollment credits free up space for exploration?
One student I spoke with initially pursued aerospace engineering but switched to industrial design after taking an elective in prototyping. Because she’d kept her gen-ed courses broad, the transition was smoother than expected.
Weigh Costs and Long-Term Goals
While chasing dreams is important, it’s wise to consider financial realities. Research:
– Tuition and scholarships: Does your plan require extra semesters or summer classes that add costs?
– Earning potential: What’s the average salary for careers in your field? (Sites like Glassdoor or PayScale can help.)
– Graduate school: Will you need an advanced degree, and how does that fit into your timeline?
For example, a teaching degree might require a fifth year for certification, while a computer science graduate could enter the job market immediately. If loans are part of your financial plan, calculate monthly payments post-graduation to avoid surprises.
Test-Drive Your Interests
Still unsure if a major is right for you? Try these low-stakes experiments:
– Online courses: Platforms like Coursera or edX offer free or affordable classes in everything from data science to philosophy.
– Clubs or competitions: Join a robotics team, debate club, or writing workshop to gauge your enthusiasm.
– Side projects: Start a blog, build an app, or volunteer in a related field.
One high school student interested in marketing launched a small social media campaign for a local bakery. Not only did it boost her confidence, but it also became a talking point in college interviews.
Trust Yourself (But Stay Open-Minded)
Ultimately, no one can guarantee your degree plan will work out perfectly—and that’s okay. College is as much about self-discovery as it is about academics. Stay curious, revisit your plan each semester, and don’t fear adjustments. As one college advisor told me, “The students who thrive aren’t the ones with flawless plans. They’re the ones who learn to adapt.”
So, is your degree plan good? If it reflects your goals, challenges you appropriately, and leaves room for growth, you’re on the right track. Now take a deep breath, draft that plan, and get ready for the adventure ahead!
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