1. “Mom, Dad, its time we had a talk”:
Adventures in Transparent Conversation
Your college experience is one that will shape the rest of your life. From the moment
you step on campus there is so much to do, see, and experience. For some, this may be
welcomed with open arms. For others, that may be a bit intimidating, and that’s okay.
Regardless, it’s a time that should encompass growth, exploration, and achievement.
Throughout this time, you may commence contemplating the exploration of various
avenues within your life. That’s one of the beauties of attending an institution such as
Florida State University. It is extremely diverse, and being a Liberal Arts institution,
offers students a chance to explore throughout a variety of subject areas, thus further
determining and defining ones passion.
This all sounds great, but has the potential to pose a significant challenge when it
comes to a situation such as entertainment of a major other than what your “parents sent
you here” to pursue. While your parents may be expecting you to remain in one major,
you’ve done some exploring and wish to choose another. Now what?
Now, it’s time to have “a talk”. You might be thinking,” It’s going to be awkward,
they’ll shoot my ideas down before I even open my mouth, they’re not going to support
my decision, I know it’s not going to work, they’ll think this is some rash decision I’ve
made overnight, or that I haven’t thought things through”. These are all very normal
things to consider. However, you can and will communicate your desires effectively with
a little bit of preparation.
Here are a few steps that you can take in preparation for that upcoming conversation.
DO YOUR RESEARCH
SPEAK WITH YOUR ADVISOR
INITIATE THE DISCUSSION
WITH YOUR SUCCESS COACH
VISIT THE CAREER CENTER
SHADOW A LOCAL
PROFESSIONAL
DOCUMENT EVERYTHING

2. 1. Do your research. Comb through the academic program guide and highlight
majors you may be considering. You may access that guide here:
http://www.academic-guide.fsu.edu/
2. Speak with your advisor. Speak with advisors within those majors being
considered and get their take on what the major encompasses and what potential
career paths might include. Not sure who those advisors would be, where they’re
located or how to contact them? You may access that information here:
http://advisingfirst.fsu.edu/FindAdvisor.html
3. Initiate the discussion with your success coach. Make your desires,
uncertainties, and/or apprehensions known. When considering the switch, create a
list of pros and cons together. Remember, you’re never alone at FSU. You’ve
always got support.
4. Visit the Career Center right here on campus. As a student you have
unlimited access to a wealth of knowledge and resources you may not have
known to ever exist. Continue your research by meeting with a career counselor
or combing through the library within the office to find out more about career,
volunteer, or internship opportunities. Perhaps you’ll first visit their website here:
http://career.fsu.edu/
5. Take a day, a few hours, or perhaps even a lunch break to shadow a local
professional within the field of study you may be contemplating. Did you
know that SeminoleLink offers a space where you can connect with FSU
alumnae? Perhaps you’ll connect with a former student who found themselves in
a similar situation or that can offer insight regarding their field of study. Try it
out here: http://career.fsu.edu/seminolelink/index.cfm
6. Document everything. Document your progress; trace your steps, journal how
you’re feeling as you move about the process. Keep all of the information you’ve
gathered in one place. A folder, notebook, or large envelope would suffice.
Now that you’ve done the research, let’s put it all together. This is where you may
get creative. Consider what the most effective means of communication tends to be with
your parents. Perhaps you’ll sit them down and walk them through your journey as you
sift through all of the information you’ve gathered together. Or, maybe you decide to
create a PowerPoint presentation detailing everything step-by-step in presentation form.
How about a flow chart or poster presentation documenting your research? Maybe
they’ll just give you the opportunity, and hear you out.
This is in no way meant to create an abundance of work for you to do on your already
full plate. Use this simply as a guide to assist you in articulating your desires and
communicating them effectively with your parents and/or other support system. This
may challenge you to step out of your comfort zone a bit. However, present with
conviction and passion. You’ll be just fine!
Genna Boyd
Academic Success Coach
Florida State University