Prioritizing

I still remember the week of finals at the University of Miami. I was in the library studying and finishing assignments that were due. I wasn’t a big fan of the all-nighters, but I knew that I had to do what was necessary to pass my exams. During one of my breaks, I happened to walk by many computers that were occupied by students who were preparing for exams as well (or at least it seemed).

What I noticed was that the majority of the computer screens displayed the popular Facebook website; but what was even more astonishing were the many sighs from having to study that were made while being preoccupied by the social media giant. Papers they were writing were quickly switched to social media networks to deter from the rigors of studying, and though I was no study freak, this scene bothered me. It was disturbing because it got me to thinking about all of the things that are present that distracts us and how we allow them to do so.

“Priorities” was all I was able to think about. It was finals and the pressure was on, yet people still found ways to allow things to distract them.

Now, to be clear, I suffered from the priority bug as well. I went to my share of parties, missed my share of classes and even at times just pushed my work to the side. I just attributed it to the normal part of college and because of that my grades were impacted as well.

            But the one thing that I learned was that in order for me to have a successful college experience, I seriously needed to prioritize between what was fun and what was necessary. I had to find a way to wade through the murky waters of my academics, baseball, social life and what I wanted in life.

            If you are struggling with the same issues, here are a few things that may help you:

 

1. Determine what you want or are expecting to get from your college experience. This is very important because in order to prioritize college, studying or your career, you must be able to answer “why am I here?” It is crucial that you identify that purpose or have a clear objective even if you may not be sure as to what your major is going to be. Is your purpose to prepare you for a promising career, to learn valuable life experiences or to just have fun?
2. Make a list of all of the things you have on your plate (classes, extracurricular activities, etc.). Composing this list will allow you to be able to SEE and organize your life in order to be able to best formulate a plan for success.
3. Decide which ones are most important on the list. When you identify these things that are most important, place them at the top of your list and label them as your “must.” The remaining things shall follow the same pattern in terms of categorizing. Try to limit the categories to 3 columns e.g. MUST, IMPORTANT, and LEAST IMPORTANT.
4. Try putting together a schedule or plan to complete tasks. This will aid in keeping you on track with your work. Give yourself a deadline to complete a project that ends before the actual due date. You will learn that this helps to eliminate procrastination. Once you develop a pattern of consistency and punctuality with your work, it will begin to come more naturally.
5. Have a solid study team of serious people who are willing to keep you on track and hold you accountable. This is important because when you begin to slip your group can give you the needed push to get back in line.

Choosing A Major

Choosing a major in college could be a very difficult choice, because it could chart the very course of your professional career. For me, choosing a major was not a clear-cut decision. Growing up, I wanted to become an astronaut, but I didn’t know exactly how to go about it and what major to pursue. All I knew is that I had a passion for space. I pondered going to the Air Force or studying astronomy. Then, I thought about even studying geology; but since I enjoyed math and physics, I thought engineering would be the best fit for me. So in college, I decided to pursue Aerospace Engineering.

Some people may know what they want to do from the beginning and others may be undecided, but either way the decision you make should be a choice that you will feel comfortable working for the rest of your life if you choose.

If you are struggling to find your major, here are few suggestions:

1. Choose a major (or career choice) that you are passionate about

It is a very good idea choosing a major or career doing something that you would consider doing for free, because when things get tough you will be assured that you will fight through the tough times.

 

2. Consult with a career counselor if you are having difficulty choosing

If you are struggling to choose a major, ask someone who has experience such as a career counselor or professor. They may be able to ask you those important questions that are necessary in making a decision.

 

3. Ask yourself the question of where you see your career leading.

You may have to ask yourself some important questions like where do you see yourself after graduation, or what direction do you see your field of interest heading to in the near future.

 

4. Don’t let money be the primary reason for choosing a major.

 

Though it is important, potential earnings shouldn’t be the primary reason for choosing a major, because you can be stuck making lots money but feeling empty in the long run. Instead, consider all the variables when making your decision.

 

5. Don’t choose a major because it is trendy.

 

Choosing a career is not a fashion statement and shouldn’t be treated as one. Don’t make the mistake of choosing a major because everyone else is doing it.

 

6. Don’t be pressured into choosing a major by family or friends.

 

Remember, you are living out your dream, not the dreams of others. Choose your major for you and nobody else.

7. Do your research.

Research the different choices because not all fields of studies are created equal. Some may be more specific than others.

 

When choosing your major, you are taking a very big step into adulthood. However, if you are undecided is OK. You still have time to make the right decision.

 

Study hard!!!