Ask Sage
By: Anonymous
QUESTION:
Dear Sage,
I am coming into college with zero idea of what I want to major in. Not only that, but I have no clue as to any career path that I would even be remotely interested in. I enjoy so many things, but they are on opposite spectrums in the job world, which is making it incredibly hard for me to pick one to work towards. I don’t want to waste my time taking classes when I don’t know what I want out of life. But, at the same time I don’t want to take time off and be behind. What if I pick the wrong major? What if I never figure it out?
– Fresh & confused
ANSWER:
Dear Fresh & confused,
You are definitely not the only one who’s coming into this year without a game plan. Thankfully, there are a lot of general classes you need to take before actually getting into your major classes. This will allow you some time to figure things out. I would suggest taking a class in each of the fields you are considering so you can get a better idea of what exactly the majors and careers entail. Every major has a beginning class, usually numbered 101. These classes give you an opportunity to really get a feel for things. Some classes may be completely different from what you had expected, and then you can eliminate those options easily. If you are considering many areas, there are academic and career exploration courses offered at the university (ACE 100 & ACE 210). A counselor for undeclared students can help you enroll in one of these classes if that seems like a good starting place for you. Counselors are your best friends in this situation, so utilize them. Take advantage of your surrounding resources!
Yours truly,
Sage
QUESTION:
Dear Sage,
I moved into the dorms this semester all the way from Idaho. The decision to come here without any friends was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but I knew I had to because the nursing program is too good to pass up! Anyway, I didn’t know my roommate coming into this, and we don’t really get along. She is very reserved and we really just don’t have much in common. I try to start conversations but her responses are brief and we share many uncomfortable silences. I want this to be a great year, and feel like I need to make this situation better in order for that to happen. Thanks for listening.
– Ms. J
ANSWER:
Dear Ms. J
Sorry to hear about your roommate troubles! It seems to me that she may just be very shy, and it might take a while for her to warm up to you. It is definitely uncomfortable living with a stranger. Keep in mind she might have these same feelings of discomfort. To try to improve things, maybe invite her to go eat with you, or attend events on your floor together. There are a ton of things to do around town. Drag her to Food Truck Fridays or even up to Tahoe for the day! She may be reluctant at first. Don’t let that scare you away. With a little convincing, she’s bound to hop on board! The Reno Instagrammys are coming up which would be something fun for the two of you to check out. If you’re into music, look into The Knitting Factory’s upcoming shows, and maybe you’ll find you like the same music! If she can see that you’re putting in effort, maybe she will too. If all else fails, don’t let it ruin the outcome of your year! You can still have the great semester you were hoping for. Try checking out the clubs or Greek life offered on campus. Don’t be afraid to get involved. That’s a great way to make new friends! Just take a few breaths, being away from home for the first time is a challenge. Embrace it. Make new friends, experience new things. Everything will work itself out! Enjoy the ride.
Yours truly,
Sage
