🎯 How to Choose the Right University Program: A Guide for High School Students
We get it. Choosing a university program can feel like picking your future out of a hat.
One moment, you're convinced you're destined to be a doctor. The next, you're wondering if you'd rather build websites or study philosophy. Add in the pressure of parents' expectations, peer comparisons, and society’s idea of success, and it can quickly feel like an impossible decision.
But here’s the good news: Choosing the right program doesn’t have to be as overwhelming as it seems. It’s all about finding something that aligns with your interests, skills, and long-term goals, and that can be easier than you think.
Here’s how to break it down step-by-step, with practical tips you can use today.
1. Start with Your Interests (Not What’s “In Demand”)
It’s tempting to pick a program based on trends, but that’s not a great way to build a career that you’ll love. Sure, some programs might offer lucrative job opportunities, but if you’re not passionate about the subject, you’ll quickly lose motivation.
Ask yourself:
What subjects in school do I enjoy the most?
When I think about my future, what do I imagine myself doing?
Do I prefer working with numbers, people, or ideas?
Take your time with these questions. If you’ve always loved biology but can’t stand math, don’t force yourself into engineering just because it’s seen as a high-paying field. Start by identifying what excites you, and the rest will follow.
2. Consider Your Strengths and Skills
While passion is key, it’s also important to match your strengths with your chosen program. Are you a natural problem-solver? Perhaps a program in engineering, computer science, or economics would be a great fit. Do you have a way with words? Consider programs in journalism, communications, or creative writing.
Make an honest list of your strengths:
What are your favorite subjects?
What do you excel at?
Do you prefer hands-on work or theoretical learning?
Choosing a program based on your skills will set you up for success in both your university years and your future career. You’re more likely to thrive in a program that complements your strengths.
3. Research Job Opportunities and Career Paths
It’s important to have a clear idea of where your degree could take you, even if that path is still a little fuzzy. Researching what career options exist for your chosen program can help you understand the potential rewards (and challenges) down the road.
Explore career possibilities like:
What industries can I work in after graduation?
Are there internships or co-op opportunities tied to this program?
What do people with this degree typically do after they graduate?
It’s totally fine if you don’t have everything figured out… many students end up exploring new career paths later on. But understanding your program’s potential career outcomes will help you make a more informed decision.
4. Talk to People Who’ve Been There
One of the best ways to get a true sense of what a program is like is by talking to those who’ve lived it. This could be professors, current students, or even alumni. You can ask questions like:
What do you wish you knew before starting this program?
What’s the workload like?
Are there any surprises in the curriculum?
You can also join student panels, attend university open houses, or simply reach out to students via social media or forums. First-hand accounts are invaluable for giving you the inside scoop on a program.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Pivot
It’s okay if you’re not 100% sure which program is the perfect fit. Many students change their program after their first or second year. University is a time for discovery, and it’s totally normal to evolve.
If you choose a program and realize it’s not what you expected, don’t panic. You’re not locked in forever. The important thing is that you’re starting on a path, and you can always adjust along the way. Universities offer opportunities for flexibility, including transfers or double majors, so don’t be afraid to explore new options.
6. Trust Yourself
Above all, trust your instincts. You know yourself better than anyone else, and the decisions you make now will help shape your future. It’s easy to get caught up in other people’s expectations, but remember: your university journey is yours and yours alone.
As long as you choose a program that excites you, builds on your strengths, and offers future opportunities, you’re on the right track.
Conclusion: You’ve Got This!
Choosing the right program might not happen overnight, and that’s okay. With research, reflection, and some honest conversations with people who can guide you, you’ll make an informed decision that aligns with your goals. And no matter what path you choose, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Looking for more tips and advice on navigating the university process? Stay tuned for our next blog post, where we dive into how to tackle your personal statement like a pro.
