One of my favorite teachers in high school was young, handsome, and still single. He had a great relationship with the students (nothing inappropriate) and made Chemistry a great class. We learned things and did things in that class that were enjoyable as well as educational.
So I finished high school, went to the natural ‘next step’, and started out as a major in Chemistry. Why wouldn’t I?
The first semester or two, I tackled all the prerequisites that are required to get to do what you really want to do. By the third semester, when I was spending my days analyzing what the yellow powder was and staring at test tubes through lab goggles (and that really messed up my hair), the future of being a Chemist was not looking so bright. I really hated the labs.
I took a flight to visit my sister in Houston, Texas and spent a week going to work with her in an Advertising Agency. My new passion was uncovered. I went back to school, changed my major and never looked back. I graduated as Outstanding Senior in Advertising.
This experience was a great learning tool for me. I learned that it is OK to change your direction. In fact it is easier to change direction when you are moving, than when you are still, so being at school already was a great factor in this. You don’t have to decide everything up front. You can decide as you go.
I also learned that you have to get some hands on experience before you are qualified to make up your mind. Had I spent the first semester in labs, I could have likely shortened my path – but as they say, when the student is ready, the teacher will appear.
Of my 3 kids, only one went to University. He is currently finishing up his CMA program. Right after he graduated from high school, he had no desire to go on to ‘more’ school. I thought he would live in my basement forever. My daughter became a cytologist (2 year hands-on, immersed program) and her starting wage was equal to what her father was making at the time. My youngest son wanted to go into 3D animation, and after 12 months of 8-5 classes and labs, he came out with skills that he can use in a variety of ways. Whether he spends his career in video games, or moves on to engineering or inventing things, he has skills that suit him.
So whatever people – regardless of age or circumstance – want to learn and achieve, I think the most important thing is to get started. Once you set your sights on a goal, the momentum starts and who knows what you might find along the way. You may end up where you originally planned to go, or find something much more wonderful.
If you’d like more information about starting your education at Lethbridge College or would like to discuss program options, our Academic Advisors are excited to talk with you.
