A
female
age
26-29,
anonymous
writes:I'm currently in my final year at college (year 13) studying Media and Film, I have also applied for universities and have had all 5 offers back to study Journalism. The University I have chosen as my first choice is Sunderland, which is about 2 hours away from where I currently live so I will have to move out. At first I was super excited, I couldn't wait to finish college and move there to start studying as the course looked incredible! Now I'm having second thoughts about pretty much everything. I'm not sure Journalism is what I definitely want to do, my mother is currently ill and I'm afraid, although it will be alot off my shoulders, that I will miss her more than I imagined. I'm also in a serious relationship with my boyfriend who I love, and although we can both travel most weekends I'm still unsure.Also since being with my boyfriend it has made me think of doing something that will help people, he is a joiner therefore he helps people when things need fixing/repairing/fitting, his sister is a beautician therefore she helps people feel better about themselves, physically. His dad has his own business, which is a massive achievement I'd love to accomplish (how, I don't know) I just don't know what I want to do with my life anymore?!
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female
reader, Lolly_Poll +, writes (20 February 2014):
I'm in my first year at university, so can relate to this post I think. In Year 13 I was absolutely positive that I wanted to be a Primary School teacher. I did voluntary placements, applied to 5 Universities and got offers from all of them including the top UK university for Primary Teaching which was everything I thought I wanted. But even though I knew I had those places I didn't feel happy. I knew it wasn't the right career for me. At the same time I volunteered with children with disabilities, so through a colleague I contacted a Senior university lecturer who teaches Youth and Community Work. After talking to her, I was sure that was what I wanted to do. So I switched my university applications, got a place and accepted. Off I went to uni to study Youth Work and I thought it was great. That was until I did a work based placement as part of the course, and realised that there were things I wanted to do more. So after the end of the first year I transferred to a degree in Social Work which is what I am studying now. This is the career that seems right for me, it fills my aspirations and I can honestly say that changing courses was the best thing I ever did. University is expensive so it's better to take time to think through what you want, rather than jump into something that you're unsure of.What is it about journalism that attracts you to it? Do you only want to do something that actively helps people, because those around you do? There is no time limit on education, there would be no harm in taking a gap year, to explore employment options or voluntary work to get an idea of what sort of work you'd like to do. My voluntary work with children really was helpful when deciding on careers.Yes you will miss your mum if you move away. And she will miss you. But she would also be happy for you and will want you to do what makes you happy. Two hours away is definitely travelable, plus there is skype and you can talk on the phone. I chose not to move away and found a university that was close to my partner, because that was what was right for me.Everyone is different, but you should do what makes you happy and put yourself first. Going to university for the first time is scary, moving out of your home is scary, but it's also amazing and that independence is indescribable. Good luck :)
A
female
reader, Honeypie  +, writes (20 February 2014):
 Do you have a career counselor at your current school? If so go talk to her/him and figure out where to go from there.
Nothing is set in stone when it comes to education.
Also consider talking to your mom. My guess is that she WANTS you to be happy with your choice, be happy with what you pick as far as education and your future.
As for feeling like you should do something to help others instead of your chosen (so far) path is a good and noble idea, but it may not be for you. And YOU can without a doubt find ways to HELP people regardless of what degree you get.
And I get the whole, I don't want to be far from my mom and my BF, but you also HAVE to put yourself first. IS there a way to study what you like/want closer to home?
Like I said, TALK to a teacher/guidance counselor/career counselor and try and look more objective at the education. This is YOUR future.
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A
female
reader, anonymous, writes (20 February 2014): This is probably more common than you think.
What you need to do is re think why you choose journalism in the first place
Usually are first instincts are correct. It sounds to me like it is the totally normal feeling of being overwhelmed by change that is taking over.
You probably feel like you have a life where you are, and do you need to change anything at all. Talk to your boyfriend your mum and your friends, don't do anything dramatic before you've looked into alternative coarses nearer home and then weigh up all options, it's what is going to make you most comfortable and happy to progress with your life that is important.
But please, don't ditch your chance of a university coarse if it is only nerves and fear of change that's stopping you. Good luck x
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