Recent Letter to the ElderWisdomCircle™
FAMILY: My parents are standing between me and my career Original Letter Hi my name is Afnan, i'm 18 years old and i'm from Jordan. I'm going to enter university soon,and i want to study law but my parents do not agree with me and they want me to study something like math (because i was good at it in school), or something medical, anything but not law. I told them even if i'm not going to study law then i will study something like Russian or Italian . But they are not agreeing, It's difficult here to the parents to be objected by thier children, but i can't stand the idea that i will live the rest of my life doing something that i don't like or want, it's just unfair and it kill my love and respect to my parents, i feel that is why we (the Jordaanians) work so hard but we are never at the top of our job or even happy, it's a sham that this the reality i'm living in. Beside that my mother is a control freak and lately our relationship is bad. I don't know what to do anymore, please advise me if you can. Thank you (and sorry for my weak English) Elder Response I don't know whether or not you are currently living in Jordan or what the educational system is like there. What I can tell you is that in the United States, the first two years of college are pretty much the same no matter what your career decision. Universities offer basic classes that would be needed for any major. In addition, Law School is a graduate school, started after you complete your 4-year bachelor's degree. So, you may be fretting needlessly right now. I tried to find out requirements for Law School in Jordan and it looks pretty much the same as here -- a graduate school. Certainly, you could write your local universities and find out. Therefore, start the university by enrolling for the undergraduate classes you will need in English, math, science, social studies and other basics. You do not need to do more for at least two years. During that time, take some electives as well. Follow your interests and see what you would like to do. Any subject you take could apply to Law school, so your mom should be reassured. You do not have to make a lifetime decision right this minute. Investigate, you may find that many things tempt you, Afnan, and you may change your mind along the way. Be open minded and receptive. This is a time for exploration before making any final decision. Keep in mind that parents do want what they think is right for their children -- even if they are not right in their decisions. Let them see you apply yourself along the road of your choice. It is too early to battle with them. Save your strength until you have some college under your belt and are more knowledgeable about what your career choice means and if you still want it. Best Regards, Hedwig |
