The Silent Struggle: Navigating family expectations and personal aspirations in University.

By Henshaw.

"They said my destiny is in my hands,

yet they try to shape my dreams with their hands.

They showed me a picture of my future but I wasn't in it.

My aspirations are dictated by their expectations.

It's as if I'm a passenger in the vehicle of my life—

Navigating a life that isn't entirely mine”

These were the words written in the diary of a young student whose dreams have been tinted by the expectations of those who innocently claimed to want the best for him.

Starting university should be an exciting time, but for some students, it’s clouded by the pressure of pursuing a course they never wanted; Lots of smiling faces but bleeding hearts. Many students are forced by parents or relatives to study a particular field due to family expectations, job prospects, or prestige.

They were forced to wake up from their dreams, their eyes were taught to see the future they(their parents and guardians) have painted, and tied to the back seat, heading towards a destination they never wanted to arrive at.

If you find yourself in this situation, you are not alone. Here’s how you can navigate this challenge and make the best of your university experience:

IDENTIFY TRANSFER OPPORTUNITIES – Check if your university allows course changes after the first year. Some institutions provide flexible options.

FIND PASSION WITHIN THE COURSE – Even if it's not your first choice, try to discover aspects that interest you or align with your skills.

ENGAGE IN EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES – Join clubs, attend workshops, or take online courses in your preferred field to keep your passion alive.

SEEK GUIDANCE FROM MENTORS – Talk to academic advisors, career counselors, or industry professionals about possible career paths.

DISCUSS WITH YOUR PARENTS – Over time, have open conversations with your family about your aspirations and potential alternatives.

BUILD TRANSFERABLE SKILLS – Focus on developing soft skills like critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving, which are valuable in any career.

The Silent Struggle: Navigating family expectations and personal aspirations in University.

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