Changing Course: The Right Path Isn’t Always the First One

If you’re questioning your degree choice, you’re not alone. Here’s how I found the right path for me.

When I started university, I was unsure of the degree I wanted to pursue, but I knew I wanted a career in STEM.

I decided to do a Biosciences foundation year, which gave me the opportunity to explore a variety of areas in biology, chemistry and mathematics. During this time, I was also able to also experience university life, make new friends, and become independent. And it was through this that I eventually discovered the path I wanted to explore.

Transitioning from sixth form/college to university life can definitely feel overwhelming, especially when you’re expected to become much more independent academically. However, during my foundation year, I was able to develop essential skills such as independent learning, academic writing, critical thinking and various research techniques. These are skills that I continued to use two years later, and it gave me the confidence and preparation I needed to progress successfully into my degree.

Another important aspect of the foundation year programme I valued was the variety of content. I was introduced to broad range of topics in the biosciences, which helped me discover and understand further what I was genuinely interested in and what I wasn’t. From working in the labs to studying molecular biology, it was a period to enjoy as I didn’t feel the pressure of expectations, and I was given the freedom to explore my options. I think this flexibility allowed me to freely make a well-informed decision about my future based on my strengths and interests rather than rushing in.

Looking back, that year gave me far more than the knowledge I needed to begin my university journey, it helped build my confidence, my independence and the freedom to develop my studying techniques. It gave me the time and space to grow as a person and be out in the world with myself and it was the best possible start to my life here at the University of Manchester.

After successfully completing my Foundation year, I progressed onto Biomedical Sciences. I initially chose this degree as the modules the course offered appealed to me the most. In my Foundation Year, I was especially interested in anatomy, diseases, immunology and how research contributes to healthcare. I found the course engaging and intellectually stimulating.

However, as I continued through Biomedical Sciences, I began debating whether this was a career path I wanted to pursue long-term. Although I enjoyed the theory and topics of interest, I didn’t enjoy the practical side to the same extent. A significant portion of the year was spent in laboratory sessions, which i found repetitive and at times isolating. Although I recognised the importance of laboratory skills and appreciated the work and research carried out, I realised that the routine and environment didn’t align with my interests or goals

As a result, I ended up feeling a little disengaged and it prompted me to reflect on my future. I had to ask myself, could I see myself working in a laboratory after graduating?

After this period of thinking and searching I felt myself drawn to a profession that was healthcare centred and something that was more interactive and people focused. I wanted a career where I could build relationships with others, apply my specialised knowledge to make a difference to people’s lives on an individual scale.

As I wanted to have a career that was more on hands with helping people and making a direct difference to their lives, I started to explore a range of healthcare degrees, with Optometry standing out to me. Instead of making a decision based on personal research, I wanted to have a first-hand experience of the career myself. I took the initiative and managed to secure work experience with a private optician for a few days, so I could observe and gain first-hand insight into the role of an optometrist and how a practice works.

I found myself immersed in the clinical work, patient interactions and day-to-day role. During my placement, I started to think of optometry as a future as it seemed to have the skills and work balance I had been looking for. Each patient has a different concern or issue, meaning that no two appointments were the same. I enjoyed seeing the level of care and structure given to each patient. After those few days, I started to consider it seriously as the balance seemed perfect for me, a future in healthcare whilst also being able to have these personalised patient interactions.

I have always found satisfaction in helping others and making them feel comfortable, especially if they may be nervous or anxious. Through these experiences, I realised that my strengths weren’t only in science but also in supporting and communicating with people.

Vision is such an important part of our daily life and being able to help improve someone’s eyesight and therefore their quality of life, felt incredibly rewarding. This made the career feel more purposeful to me.

My previous experiences in healthcare and customer service also influenced my decision. I realised that I enjoy communicating with people, building trust and providing support.

Optometry combines these interpersonal skills with clinical knowledge, which felt like the perfect fit for me. However, the choice to switch course was difficult. There were several factors to think about such as how to apply and the process, how it would affect my timeline at university and the uncertainty of beginning over. At one point I questioned whether changing courses was the right decision at all. I was concerned that switching to a different subject would cause me to fall behind and as I had already started Biomedicine I should just continue.

Rather than making an impulsive decision, I spoke with friends, family and others I trusted, and did a lot of research and made sure I understood what each decision would lead to. I admit I did doubt myself at times. But despite this, the journey was worth it completely, I do not regret a single moment because each day taught me something different and I learnt and adapted as I went.

Emotionally, the whole process was a mix of uncertainty and relief. It’s completely normal to feel nervous when making a big decision like this, especially when it involves stepping out of your comfort zone. However, once I made the decision, I felt a strong sense of confidence and excitement. Instead of worrying about the extra time it would take, I focused on the opportunities ahead. I knew I was choosing something that aligned better with who I am and what I want for my future.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned from this whole experience is that it’s okay not to have everything figured out, especially at the beginning. University is not just about getting a degree; it’s about personal growth and self-discovery. Just because you’ve changed direction doesn’t mean you’ve failed, it means that you are giving yourself the future you want and deserve.

You only have one life so live it the way you want to.

Everyone’s experience is different, but what matters the most is choosing the path that is right for you. If you are someone currently considering changing courses, my advice is to take your time and reflect on what you truly want. Speak to others and do your own research but don’t feel afraid to make a change! It’s better to look ahead and prepare, than to look back and regret.

Overall, my journey from Biosciences Foundation year to Biomedical Sciences and finally to Optometry shaped me emotionally and academically. It taught me resilience and the importance of making decisions based on my own values and goals. It wasn’t the most straightforward traditional path, but it was the right one for me and it led me to where I am today.

If you are considering a change in your academic journey, it’s not too late! It’s better to be happy and do the degree and career you want! Rather than staying in a degree where you are unhappy as it led to a career where you may still be unhappy.

You are the only one who can make these sacrifices for yourself and your future.

Changing courses was one of the hardest things I have had to do, but it was the right one. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing and I hope my story reassures anyone who’s wondering whether it’s okay to change direction.