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Initially, when I came to the University of Michigan as a freshman, I had the full intention of pursuing a pre-law track. I was very excited to learn about all the opportunities and help on campus. Coming into college, I already had connections in the law world and a list of organizations I wanted to join. But as I moved through my first semester, I realized a career in law was not for me. I was no longer interested in it, and, unfortunately, this realization meant I lost all my connections.

I began exploring other majors/tracks, including pre-dental and communication. Still, nothing felt right. I finally sat down and looked at my passions and interests, which led me to education. I’ve always had an interest in education and helping make the education system more equitable for all students. However, one thing always stopped me when thinking about that career: money. Growing up, I always heard people mention how teachers don’t get paid enough so I considered pushing my passion behind me. Thankfully, though, I didn’t let that stop me and moved forward with it.

I decided to go the same route that I did with pre-law. I searched through the list of on-campus organizations and looked for connections. I couldn’t find much and felt like I was at a loss. I was unable to find any organizations that specifically catered to my major. I hadn’t yet transferred to the School of Education (SOE) to be able to find opportunities there. But I was not going to give up on finding the on-campus support that I needed. My first step was reaching out to my high school history teacher to gain more insight on what to do. In high school, he was the teacher that pushed me to work harder. I asked him to be my mentor in this process. He was happy to help, and I immediately started asking questions:

• Why did you want to become a teacher?
• What type of degree do you have?
• What was the hardest topic to learn?

And finally, one connection was built.

Before my second semester, I looked through the School of Education’s website to learn more about transferring. I came across the Teacher Preferred Admit (TEPA) program. It was a program that allowed individuals interested in transferring to the School of Education to have a straight path into the school. As long as students completed a particular education course before the second semester of their sophomore year, met with an SOE advisor, went to at least one TEPA event per semester, turned in all the required paperwork, and filled out the transfer application when it came time, they were promised admittance into the school.

Another connection was made.

Through the TEPA program, I’ve received many emails with opportunities to connect to those with similar interests, teachers in surrounding districts, and many others. I felt as though I belonged somewhere. My passion was becoming a real career plan for me. Although I felt lost in the beginning, I didn’t give up on forming the connections I needed. Forming your support system on campus is very important and will give you something to fall back on when you need it.

Here are some tips for developing your connections on campus.

1. Regularly assess your major. Are you still interested or passionate about it? Can you still see a future post-graduation? If not, think about where your true passions lie. What are you most interested in?
2. Explore other majors by researching what’s available at your college and what job opportunities are available post-graduation. I highly recommend talking to your career counselor or someone you trust.
3. Find connections at your school to assist with this transition (groups, organizations, etc.) and provide support.
4. Find connections outside of your school ­– again, someone that you trust.
5. Explore mentorships.
6. Research what programs and opportunities are available at your school. How can credits be used for your new path? How can you ensure you don’t lose credits and graduate on time?

Written by Bella Crayton, Fall 2022 Campus Ambassador.