Students change career plans in college

 Many students begin their collegiate path with a certain career goal in mind, but during the course of their time here at Prairie View A&M University, their plans may change.
 "I just woke up one day during my junior year and realized that the career path I was on would bring me riches but not happiness," said Willie Rhodes, a senior education major, who transitioned from being an electrical engineering technology major, a degree that typically takes six years.
 Rhodes now has hopes of becoming a teacher, a passion he has had all his life.
Another plan Rhodes has developed is obtaining a doctorate in theology and chartering a theology program.
He said, "Though my total time here will be seven years, I have truly and thoroughly matured unlike some graduates of the university."
Much like Rhodes, fellow PV Mime ministry member Tyrell Irby, a sophomore business management major, has been enlightened by his journey at the university.
"I started college in business management because I eventually want to own my own restaurant. That is still a goal of mine but I want to have more of an impact on my community and on young men so now I am looking into sociology," said Irby.
While students like Rhodes and Irby have made significant changes to their career paths, some students have been more informed of the various opportunities their current degrees can bring.
"When I first started in engineering the summer before my freshman year, I was only thinking about graduating and getting money. Through exposure to different programs and seminars on campus I have a more specific plan," said Justin Linton, a senior civil and environmental engineering major.
The Collegiate 100 member wants to become professionally licensed and start his own company.
He also credits his knowledge of his field to engineering organizations, internships and conversations with different professors and alumni.
Junior mass communication major Shanquela Chambers has also tweaked her career plans based on conversations with experienced individuals in her field and her courses here at the university.
"Originally I wanted to do radio broadcasting, but there are some aspects of it that I do not like. Now I am exploring different things such as screenwriting based on my natural talents and interests," said Chambers.
PVAMU encourages students to find the right niche and be productive in today's society by providing career services, seminars, organizations and leadership opportunities on campus.