What study programs and professions are right for you?

1. Know yourself

You’ve probably heard that before, but you are your own best friend, so start the conversation. Here are some ways to get to know yourself better than anyone else possibly could:  

• Write down (or type on your cell phone) everything you love. Don’t censor yourself. Think about all your hobbies and interests, even desires you might not admit to yourself. Be sure to jot down non-academic ideas because every passion could spark a study project that’s just right for you. 

• List the things you like to do during the week and the type of content you consume on social media.   

• Detail the themes you’re most comfortable with. What are your favourite things to discuss? What topics pique your curiosity? Forget your biases and preconceived ideas: write without overthinking!  

• Specify your skills, strengths and areas for improvement. No humility or false modesty.  

• Trust yourself. Trust what you like and who you truly are.  

• Be open and flexible throughout the exercise. 

2. Remember, you're just like everyone else!

Everyone doubts themself from time to time, even your seemingly unshakably confident classmate. Self-doubt may dog you throughout your academic career – and even your professional career – but that’s normal. When it sneaks up on you, ask yourself questions to confirm your choices and the answers will be self-evident.  

3. Forget the formula that your study program = your profession

The formula "one study program, one profession" is a myth. Keep in mind that a bachelor's degree opens doors to a wide range of careers and educational opportunities at the graduate level you might not ever have imagined. Just think of those who completed a bachelor's degree in psychology, then pursued a master's degree in criminology, or those who earned a bachelor's degree in nursing then became a health care consultant. Then there are those who attained a bachelor's degree in occupational therapy and went on to study pharmacy or took a bachelor's degree in anthropology then went on to pursue public health. The list of examples is long!  

Besides, your future profession may not even exist yet. Who knows... your studies could pave the way to creating it 

4. Life is not lived in a straight line

It can be comforting to follow a popular path: pre-university studies, bachelor's degree, master's degree, graduation at 25 and then the job market. But there's more to it than that. What used to be an atypical career path has now become more fashionable — and typical — than ever. Trying two or three different programs is not a failure. On the contrary, it builds a unique curriculum that consolidates your versatility and leads to exciting career prospects. Read about this student who switched from law to history to psychology to find her true calling. 

5. Know (and understand!) the different types of programs

This is one of the most basic steps in the orientation process, but it’s so important! Are you torn between minors, majors, microprograms, bachelor's degrees and undergraduate doctorates? To avoid losing your French and, above all, to make an enlightened choice, learn to distinguish between the different types of programs and discern what sets them apart. 

Understanding the types of programs