I’m one of those students who takes a long time to do my work, who likes all subjects and who loves learning. I came into SLU as a Medical Scholar, and couldn’t believe the opportunity I had before me. I declared myself a Biology Major at the end of my sophomore year, took Physics over the summer at SLU, received my acceptance letter to Saint Louis University’s School of Medicine and hopped on an overseas plane. While in London, I gained a better sense of myself and my dreams. I became more independent, more outgoing, and best of all, happier. It was then that I realized that my head and my heart were going in two completely different directions.

Just this past week, I changed my major to Communication, and I gave up my seat in the SLU School of Medicine, class of 2014.  While I’m sad to see one page of my book turn, I’m excited to see there are more chapters ahead. I’ve learned that my strengths are not coincidences and that happiness is most important.  

But what else did I learn? I learned that, no matter what, SLU faculty and staff will do their best to accomodate your desires. Is it normal for a second semester junior to want to change her major? No. Is it easy? Not really. BUT…it’s possible.  I emailed my advisor in the College of Arts & Sciences. She met with me a few days later (amidst all of her registration appointments) and gave me the information and advice I needed to take the next step. Then I emailed the chairperson of the Department of Communication. We met within the next few days. I sat down and was nervous of what her reaction would be. But she was GREAT! She gave me the reassurance I needed and the encouragement to follow through with what will make me happiest in my future. 

I never knew it would be so easy to change my major so late in the game (and to something SO different than what I originally desired). Everyone made me feel so comfortable and confident throughout the whole process. And now? I have a new faculty mentor, a new major, and I’m still planning to graduate on time. 

SLU makes sure to educate the whole person…and they make sure to do so according to the students’ desires.