Dear Parys:
I’m a graduating Senior in high school and I will be attending Alcorn in the Fall of 2026. I will be majoring in Nursing but herein lies the problem, I don’t want to major in this. My mother has strongly suggested that this be my major because it makes a lot of money and is stable. Parys, I can’t stand the sight of blood and I hate hospitals. I am more of an artsy type of individual who enjoys writing stories and reading fiction. I’d love to major in Mass Communications or English but when I tell her this, she just shuts me down and tells me that there is no money to be made in either one of those majors. She makes me feel as though my talents are useless. How can I explain to her, in a kind respectful manner, that his is my passion without upsetting her because after all she is my mother and my financial lifeline until I graduate and find a job? I just want to be happy. HELP ME PLEASE!
Running Out Of Options
Dear Running Out Of Options:
Hey girl. I really understand your situation, and I can feel your frustration through your words. It’s hard when the person who loves you most doesn’t see your vision the way you do.
One way you can explain it to her is by showing her that majors such as English or Mass Communications aren’t just “editing Instagram videos” or random creative hobbies. There are real careers in Journalism, Public Relations, Broadcasting, Publishing, Marketing, Law, Technical Writing, Media Production, and more. Those fields can be stable and profitable too. If you come to her with actual job examples and salary ranges, she may see that it’s more than just a dream, it’s a plan.
Also, remind her that you don’t want to choose a career that makes you miserable. Nursing is amazing, but if you hate hospitals and can’t stand blood, that’s not something you can just “push through” for money. Try expressing your feelings without blaming her. Let her know you appreciate her wanting security for you, but you also want to build a life where you’re happy and fulfilled.
And if all else fails, once you get to Alcorn, you do have the ability to change your major. I know you want your mom’s support, that matters, but this is your life. You’re stepping into adulthood now. You deserve to pursue something that aligns with your passion and your strengths.
