It’s Okay to Not Know Where You’re Going

Going into my fourth year, I thought things would feel clearer by now. I mean, I’m in medical laboratory science, a program with a pretty straightforward path, right? But the closer I get to finishing, the more I’ve been questioning everything. Like… do I really want to do this forever? Or should I switch it up and do something totally different, like maybe a master’s in education to become a teacher?

And I know I’m not the only one feeling like this.

Almost every conversation I’ve had with my friends lately includes the line:
“I have no idea what I’m doing after this.”
Whether they’re in health sciences, life sciences, or psych, everyone’s kind of just figuring it out as they go. And honestly, that makes me feel a little better.

So if you’re feeling stuck, unsure, or lowkey panicking about the future, just know: you are not alone. You’re actually in pretty good company.

I feel like there’s always this pressure to have a whole five-year plan ready to go,  like we’re supposed to know exactly what we want to do, where we want to be, and how to get there. But honestly? Life doesn’t work like that.

People change. You grow. What you wanted last year might not even feel right anymore and that’s totally normal.

Take your time. Try things. Mess up a little.
You don’t need to have all the answers right now.
You’re allowed to figure it out as you go.

Some things that could help:

1. Journaling 
I just write whatever I’m thinking with no structure. Sometimes, just getting your thoughts out of your head helps you see things more clearly. Ask yourself:

• What do I actually enjoy doing?

• What drains me?

• What kind of life do I want to build?

2. Talking to People in the Fields You’re Considering
A simple convo can open your eyes to what something actually looks like. Sometimes we glamorize certain careers or rule others out without ever talking to someone who’s lived it. They usually will give you their unfiltered opinions, too and not try to sell you on anything. 

3. Letting Go of the Timeline
I had to remind myself that there’s no set timeline. Your life doesn’t expire at 25. It’s not a race to check everything off some invisible list. Some people find their thing early, others take their time, both are valid.

4. Remembering Your Degree Isn’t Your Identity
Just because you studied something doesn’t mean you’re locked into it for life. You’re not “wasting” your degree if you choose another path. It helped shape you, and created memories, and that still counts.

My Final Thoughts:

If you’re feeling behind, uncertain, or overwhelmed by all the “What’s next?” questions, don't worry, I see you. I AM you. The truth is, most students are figuring it out just like us! 

So take a breath. Reflect a little. 
You don’t need to have it all mapped out.

You’re allowed to not know where you’re going right now.
You’ll get there, one step at a time!