When I first entered Ohio State at the start of this semester I intended on getting a degree in Respiratory Therapy. However, after thinking about what I enjoy and what I would want to dedicate the rest of my life to I changed my major, drastically, to World Politics with a minor in Human Rights. I have also identified my potential backup major as Geography with a specialization in Environment and Society. All the majors mentioned so far would give me the option of traveling the world and helping people in impoverished communities, something that is very important to me. By going through this process of switching my major to something totally unrelated to health sciences it has helped me to understand the processes and resources within the university. I have been able to really search through different career options as well as communicating with faculty from various different departments. I plan on utilizing my study abroad options during my summer between my second and third year.
The hardest part of adjusting to college was for sure being forced to gain time management skills, balancing personal time with my school work and being able to get all of my academics done. I joined a club sports team which I enjoy as it gives me the opportunity to go off campus several times a week as well as stay healthy. I am starting to understand more and more my best ways to study how I learn best. I also find TA’s a great resource. They are somewhat less intimidating than your professors but can still help you with almost any question you have and often have more time. I find that developing a relationship with them allows me to better learn during my recitation as I find it easier to interact during class.
Next semester I really hope to be much happier with the classes I am taking as they will be better suited to my major and what I enjoy. By enjoying what I am learning I am confident that I will be able to also do better in my classes and excel here at Ohio State