Regretting Your Study Choice? Here Are Some Tips!

Wrong study choices are common. Did you also make a wrong study choice? You're not alone. Fortunately, a wrong study choice does not have to mean an end point. Discover five valuable tips for dealing with a wrong study choice and repairing your path. Here are some choices you can make:

1. Doubting about switching studies

Are you still in doubt about your study choice? Switching studies or not? It may happen that the study you are currently following does not suit you well. Often doubt arises because many fields of study are so broad, with widely varying content per year of study. Although it's a familiar story, communication is key. Seek advice from a college counselor to discuss your doubts, but also don't hesitate to share your thoughts with parents, friends, teachers or fellow students. Their fresh perspectives can offer valuable advice for your situation.

2. Consider a gap year

Consider taking a gap year if you are sure your current study is not the right one. The decision to quit a study is not one you take lightly, given the time and energy you have put into it. It is crucial that your next study choice be a better fit for you. A gap year may be an option to find the right direction. Use this time to travel or gain more work experience. It is essential to organize your thoughts, take time and discover what really interests and energizes you. Once you get that clear, you can start looking in a targeted way for a study that better matches your interests, significantly reducing the chances of making the wrong study choice.

3. Switch study

Switching to another study is a possible solution in case of a wrong study choice. Especially in the first year it is often possible to quit before February without adverse financial consequences (HBO studies). If you already have a concrete idea of which study suits you better, this is a valuable option to consider. It pays to contact your educational institution to discuss your options for a change of studies. Sometimes they can even advise you on alternative studies that better match your interests and skills. A conversation with a student advisor can be invaluable in this regard; they can provide you with comprehensive guidance and answers to various questions you may have about your college choice process.

When you realize that you have made the wrong study choice, there are practical things to think about. First, it is wise to think about deregistering. If you remain enrolled, you will of course still receive (borrowed) tuition and retain the option of taking courses at other studies. Considering these options is important when taking next steps after a wrong study choice.

4. Finish a year

Although it may seem like a difficult decision, it can certainly be an option, especially if you chose the wrong study. If you realize during your first year of a college education that this study does not suit you, there is the possibility to finish your year and get your propaedeutic certificate. With your propaedeutic certificate in your pocket, you can transfer to university, for example, where you can choose a study that suits you better. Should university not be your preference, you will at least show that you have a college level of thinking by completing your foundation year. This opens up opportunities for further steps in your academic or professional career.

5. Preventing the wrong choice of study

To avoid the wrong study choice, it is essential to start exploring your study options on time, preferably even a year before starting. By starting early, you avoid choice stress and avoid making hasty decisions. In addition, it is highly recommended that you participate in taster days or trial study days. These opportunities offer you a realistic picture of the program and help you determine whether the study actually matches your interests and expectations.

Side jobs can help you

Discover your passions by trying out different (side) jobs. Exploring various jobs provides a valuable opportunity to discover your true interests and talents. Experiment with different industries, jobs and work environments. You might stumble upon a hidden passion you hadn't previously considered! Moreover, you will earn some extra money during this exploration.

Every (side) job, even if it doesn't turn out to be your ideal match, offers valuable learning opportunities. Pay attention to the skills you gained, what you enjoyed and what lessons you learned. These insights will help you better understand yourself, which is essential when making future career moves.

Even if you don't yet know exactly what you want, there are companies like Recruit a Student that will work with you to find a job or side job that is a perfect fit.Find out how we can help you in your search for a job that really works for you!

Are you ready for a change and looking for a job? Apply now at Recruit a Student. Check out our website for vacancies and sign up! We'll get in touch with you soon, and before you know it, you'll have found your favorite part-time job!