Dumbing myself down? (Changing majors)

Question

I'm switching from a very vigorous major (molecular biology) to psychology because I'm not passionate about bio. And to make things worse I'm not good at the classes, they don't stick with me, I'm not passionate like the other bio kids. I love psych and ive always been interested in it, but my mom says there's no money it and got super super mad at me, talking about how she wouldn't help me anymore if I switched majors and that it's not about my happiness. Money is more important. But she kept saying I'm degrading myself, basically dumbing myself down with a psych major. That I can't do anything with a psych major. I just don't know what to do. Any advice would be nice

*** forgot to mention I would still minor in bio

Answer

I switched to psychology after 3 years of nursing prerequisites, because I was ready to graduate and end the long distance with my then boyfriend (now husband). I finished all of my psych classes in 3 (heavy course load) semesters.

Two years later, I am now going to school for my MSW. I could never find a job with more than $10/hour, which is not going to pay off my student loan debt and is not worth spending 4 years of my life working to the bone for that education.

So, your mom is actually correct in one way, that there is no money in that as a bachelors. BUT if you go on to get a masters, you'll get paid quit well depending on where you live and what company you work for.

Your mom is wrong in telling you to go to college for money, though. YOU are the one putting in all the hard work, all nighters, studying like crazy- so YOU are the one that needs to decide on happiness vs. money.

You're blessed that your mom is helping pay for college. I worked full time and went to school full time my entire undergraduate education, and I always struggled to make ends meet. So, when you have this conversation with her, make sure to tell her that you're grateful for her help.

Answer

I know 3 people with psychology degrees that can't do anything with it. Make sure you do your research and put yourself in a situation that you will be able to. From my understanding you have to have a masters. But th at is coming from life experience not my own research.

Answer

Tbh psychology is fascinating but it's not super lucrative unless you take it to at least the masters level to make yourself stand out! I have a friend studying Psychology right now and she already plans to get her doctorate without question. A minor is also an option!

There are tons of people graduating with the same degree as you! What will make you stand out to your potential employeers? Do you have a lot of extracurriculars? Volunteer work? Research experience! You'll just have to set yourself appart in different ways!

What direction were you planning on heading with your Biology degree ??

Answer

It's YOUR life. Do what makes YOU happy. 😊

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i dont agree with your mother at ALL. first of all your happiness is the most important thing, and you shouldnt stay in a major that you dont really like. second of all, in what word changing to psychology is "dumbing down"? its super complex, interesting and you can actually make a LOT of money off it lol - therapists, for an instance, are super expensive. its also no easy major according to everyone ive ever talked about it lol

Answer

I changed my major 3 times, but I finally just recently graduated with a degree in Psych and just got a full time job as a mental health worker at a hospital and will be making $16/hr plus benefits. (I have no student loans so that pay works for me for now)
A few suggestions I have would be working a part time job related to your degree so you graduate with experience so you can get a better paying job when you do graduate....I would also pick a focus (substance abuse, child welfare, counseling, and many others). I didn't have any experience or an area of focus in the field when I graduated so it made it a little more difficult to find a job but I eventually did and have many opportunities to move up as I gain experience! 
Good Luck and I'm sorry your mom is treating you like that.
Also check out Psychology Today online to see all the different areas of psych there are. I was surprised by all the options!

Answer

I was in a pre-med program for two years before I decided to switch schools and major in Marine Biology. I am 100% aware of the fact that I will never have a six figure job, but I also know I am going to be happy being on a boat working with animals I've loved since I can remember and will have a better quality of life because of it.

If you value the comforts of having a lot of money to spend, you might consider not changing to Psych but something else that could also be lucrative. 
If you value life experience and making a difference on an individual level more than the monetary aspect of life, then stick to your gut and become a therapist.

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As a psych major, I can tell you from experience, you can't do much without a masters degree. It took me 3 years + medical office experience to find a job in the psych field. In the mean time I worked retail and Secretary jobs. I'm going to be going back soon for a social work masters so I can finally make a nice wage.

Answer

Huh? You could be a psychiatrist. How is there not money in that? And what money is there in molecular biology?   Either way, you need to do what you're passionate about trust me.  I was a biology major, on the path to med school.  Because I failed a stupid ecology class I threw it all out the window and became a CPA instead.  I have been doing this for 14 years now. I'm good at it but I find it boring.  Science is what truly interests me and I wish I wouldn't have been so stupid 16 years ago.

Answer

I wouldn't stick with a major that you don't enjoy and see a career path in. More than likely with molecular biology you would have to continue your education to find a really good paying job. With psychology you would probably find a job teaching from what I understand. I was a chemistry/pre-pharmacy major and actually graduated with a bachelor's. Decided after that the one reason I wanted to be a pharmacist was for the money. Went back to school and got my nursing degree and absolutely love my job even though I make less. Do what you love. As long as you work hard and do well your parents should be proud. Good luck!

Dumbing myself down? (Changing majors)

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