Questioning Life
Hi all,
I’m having a major debate with myself, one I’ve had before.
This is a very hard decision as I’m sure you all understand, and I’d like some thoughts on the matter.
Currently I’m studying architecture, in my 3rd semester. To be a certified architect I need four more years of school (masters degree) and three years work experience (not to mention taking the certification exam).
Okay, so I love architecture. It’s fascinating to me– but I don’t know that I’m GOOD at it. There are so many other things I could easily do that requuire less time, less stress which I could be successful at, easily. Less schooling (therefore less money paid), but then to the differences. I probably wouldn’t make as much money, MAYBE not enjoy it as much (but in reality who knows how happy I’ll be working in a stressful architecture firm?).
The other thing is, my husband and I REALLY want kids. We were talking about it last night (we’ll always make comments like, “when we have kids….”) and he sounded very upset when he realized he’s going to be in his 30s by the time we have kids, because we don’t want to have them until I’ve a job (so, 7 years theoretically).
My family always says “you won’t make as much money doing ____ as you will with architecture!” So the question is, is the money and career really worth that much more? All the stress, prolonging the progression of our family? I’m having such a hard time…
It’s also very hard to switch a major after you’ve already dedicated so much time to studying something you enjoy. I’m not sure if I should talk to my professor or not about this. There’ve been many, many profound architects that did horrible in school, but again… I don’t know if it’s worth it. I battle with myself about it because I feel like if I were to switch my major it’s “taking the easy way out” but really there’s so much more to it then that.
Thanks all for listening… let me know what you think.
Honeslty, I think it is up to you. I know that doesn’t help but you are the one that needs to be happy in the end. Not your parents, friends, or anyone else. You have to live with yourself everyday for the rest of your life. So pick what makes you happy, so that you can live with yourself. I hope that all makes since.
Well I am in my last year of pharmacy school which has taken me 8 years to do but could have been done in 6. I didn’t know what I wanted to do at first so I spend time looking into other careers. Even thought I spent longer in school I am glad I took the extra time.
I was not good in pre-pharm classes, I struggled but have excelled in pharmacy school. I am not great at science but I love it so I always kept pushing. I didn’t like the classes per say but I loved the career.
I was good at psychology and sociology, really good, but as much as I liked the classes, I hated the careers.
I totally get you about the kid thing. There are several people in my class that went ahead and had kids anyways. I never could. Too scared. BUT picking my next career I am heavily thinking about my future and children and what a career in whatever could mean to them.
Like if I want to work in infectious disease what does the mean if I am pregnant? Or if I want to take on a residency and go to “school” another year then I can’t take time off to have a kid. I totally understand!!!
It’s hard.
Don’t do it just for the money, it’s too long of schooling to be motivated just by that. Plus there is no guarantee. Like everyone tells me “oh pharmacy, you’ll be rich” but not if I work for a free health clinic or if the government takes over healthcare…you can’t depend on the money.
I really want kids too. It’s something my b.f and I have talked about a lot and both of us want kids (he wants 5…I’m thinking more along the lines of 2!). I’m 26, and in year 2 of a 4 year course… and I’ve another 2 years of post grad ahead of me before I can properly work. I’m in the same shoes as you, because my b/f said we cant get married until I finish college, because then our income will be more stable… and no kids til we’re married… that’s the deal we made. So I’ll be in my early 30s (as will he) before we even consider kids.
30s is not too old for kids. At least you’ll be financially secure, in a good job. Look at it as something to look forward to (that’s what I’m doing)… you dont have to rush at having kids yet.
I’m brother in law graduated from Syracuse this pasted spring from Architect…Him nor his friends doing the same have a job as an Architect yet! They all have resumes out all over America! He was one of the best in the class! So I’m not saying quit because someday there will be a need for architects again but in this economy there is no place for them! Follow your dreams and if that dream is to be an architect that stay doing it! Good luck and keep us posted please (sorry I forgot to login LOL)
I admire you for going after an interest that is so close to your heart. I believe, that if money is not the motivating factor, you must do what makes you happy. After all, even if you have a high paying job, but it’s in the worse work envirnoment, is it worth it at the end of the day?
You do what your heart tells you, I support you.
Kids, I know that one too well. Let’s just say, have fun practicing making kids.
Since you asked for opinions I’ll give you mine..Finish your education before you have kids. I have recently gone back to school and the stress of trying to do it while raising a family is much worse than when I was an undergrad and only took care of myself. You are young and have lots of time for a family, but you are only in your twenties once! Another thing to consider when planning your career is how you will fit children in. I had a very successful advertising career before I had kids, but wanted to be home with them so I left. I need to be on my kids schedule so now I’m in training to be a school librarian. It’s not as glamorous as advertising, and I won’t make nearly as much money, but I’ll be there for my girls. I know we as women feel we should have it all, and we can, but maybe not all at the same time! Since you know you want kids…maybe think about a career that allows for flexibility and family time (i don’t know if architects get that or not). Good luck!