Some college freshmen find that the courses they choose are not suitable for them. What are the causes of this? What can be done to solve the problem?

    The choice of courses holds great importance for college freshmen as it determines their future path and significantly impacts their personal and professional life. However, it is not uncommon for some students to find that the courses they select are not suitable for them. In my opinion, the mismatch between students and their chosen courses can be attributed to insufficient guidance during the selection process and unrealistic expectations influenced by societal pressures.

    Many students lack proper counseling or advice during the course selection process, as high school guidance counselors may not possess adequate knowledge about college programs. This results in students making uninformed decisions that lead them to enroll in disciplines that do not align with their interests, skills, or career aspirations. Additionally, societal expectations, peer pressure, and family opinions often influence students when selecting courses. They may choose popular or prestigious programs without fully understanding the requirements and demands of those fields. Consequently, they may realize later on that the chosen courses are too challenging, not aligned with their passions, or not as appealing as initially thought.

   To address the issue, several solutions can be implemented. Firstly, enhancing the guidance and counseling services offered by colleges is essential. This can be achieved by allocating dedicated counselors who possess in-depth knowledge of various courses and career paths. These counselors can provide personalized advice tailored to students' individual needs and aspirations. Additionally, fostering a supportive environment that encourages students to make independent choices is crucial. Colleges can organize workshops or orientation programs that focus on promoting self-awareness and critical thinking. These programs can educate freshmen about the importance of considering their own passions, skills, and long-term goals when selecting courses, rather than solely relying on external influences. By assisting students in aligning their interests with suitable courses and providing students with the necessary tools to navigate societal pressures, colleges can reduce the likelihood of encountering mismatches between students and their chosen courses.

    In conclusion, addressing the issue of unsuitable course choices among college freshmen requires improving guidance and counseling services. By providing dedicated counselors with extensive knowledge, colleges can assist students in making informed decisions that align with their interests and aspirations. Additionally, fostering an environment that encourages independent decision-making and self-reflection can help students navigate societal pressures and select courses that lead to a more fulfilling academic journey.