Unsure about my course
Dear Counselling,
I'm currently a first year student but I'm having a few issues with the course. I just can't see myself in that industry and enjoying it. My parents are adamant that I continue study and are saying that if I don't do this course that I have to transfer. But I don't want to waste my time and my money jumping from course to course and never getting anywhere. I was fresh out of high school when I began university and I think that I didn't have enough grounding to really know what I wanted to do in life. I'd like to take 6 months to a year off and figure out what I want to do but it's convincing my parents that’s the issue. They don't think I will go back to studying but I know I will. - Anonymous
It sounds like you have been going through a lot of soul searching and considering your goals for the future. You’re taking the difficult steps of working out what’s right for you. The best thing to do is to look at your options and talk them through with your parents.
- Apply for a leave of absence
You can take a break of up to 12 months during your course without losing your place. It’s up to you if you want to take 6 months or 12 months. If you want to take a break, you’ll need to fill out a Discontinuation or break from studies form and submit it by the session census date. You should still re-enrol for Autumn Session so all your options are open. It’s a bit of a myth that people who take breaks don’t come back. I work with lots of students who take time off and then come back to their course refreshed and ready to study. - Deciding what course to do now
It sounds like you’re certain that your current course isn’t for you, so what now? Websites like MyFuture (opens in a new window) have lots of useful career and course information. You can also book an appointment with a UWS careers advisor through the Careers Hub website. Talking to a careers advisor might help your parents see that you’re thinking seriously about your future and getting support and advice from the University.
You can also find out more about transferring into other UWS courses on the transfer webpage.
I can’t tell you whether to transfer or take a break – that decision is completely up to you. What I do know is that it seems like continuing with your current degree is not what you want right now. Hopefully some of my suggestions will help you talk to your parents and make a decision. If you’re still struggling to make a decision, I’d recommend that you come in and have a talk with a counsellor.
(This question and answer is a part of eCounselling. If you have a question please submit it online. Please note this is not a good way to deal with crisis situations. If we are concerned about your safety we may call you to check on your welfare. If you need to make an appointment, please call (02) 9852 5199 or visit the Counselling Service on your campus. Lifeline is also available 24 hours a day on 13 11 14)
