Dear Thonny,

I am a rising junior and course selections have me really stressed. I thought I had everything planned out but it’s the complete opposite. Cooking has always been one of my passions and I have a really strong interest in Culinary Arts, but my parents want me to take biology so I can be ready for premed in college. I don’t want to pass up the chance to take a class I really love, but I also don’t want to disobey my parents. What should I do?

Sincerely,
A stressed student

Dear stressed student,

Course selections get everyone stressed so don’t feel like you are alone. During this time of the year, many students start to experience this same problem including myself.

When it comes to choosing classes, it is important to think about which ones will benefit and prepare you for the future.

If you want a career in the medical field, I suggest listening to your parents and taking biology classes. Your love for culinary makes me think that’s not what you really want to do.

If you don’t plan on doing anything in the medical field and are more interested in getting a culinary arts degree, then there is no point in taking a biology class.

You’re still a sophomore so I think your parents will let you take culinary arts with a little negotiation. Just let them know that you’re unsure about what career path you want to take and them pressuring you to take a class isn’t helping you.

If they still don’t see your point of view, then it’s time for a larger conversation about your future.

Sincerely,

Thonny