I am a junior in college studying Environmental Science (It is a B.S. program). I would one day like to work for the U.S. Park Service.
I am debating whether I should switch into my school’s Sustainability major (the school’s environmental studies or B.A. version of Environmental Science). If I continue in the Env Sci program I may end up graduating late, even if I took summer classes (this is a result of not planning well, etc). My parents have stated that I would have to pay for my last year of college; having to take an extra semester or year would only add to the amount of loans I would have to take out. I also won’t have a lot time to get work experience, which, from what I’ve heard, is very important if you want to work for the Park Service. My mom has stated that she could potentially get me a summer job at the San Diego Naval Base (which could potentially turn into a full time job offer after I graduate), but that would mean that I would definitely graduate late.
Additionally, the classes in the Env. Sci major worry me. Even though I chose a major that requires biology, physics, chemistry, and math, I have never been extremely good at these subjects. Though school just started, I am already worried about falling behind.
On the other hand, if I were to change into the B.A. program, I would definitely finish on time and have more time to volunteer; the Sustainability program even requires an internship. I would also have an easier time with the classes.
Another thing that worries me are my job options if the Park Service didn’t work out. My mom stated that I would need to be in a B.S. program to work on the naval base. I do have some experience volunteering in 2 museums, and I’ve considered trying to get a job in a museum (perhaps in the education department or something). Based on what I’ve heard though, getting the B.S. degree would be more useful because of it’s science foundation and I don’t want to switch out of the major just because it’s difficult. I do believe that if I really worked hard, I could make it through Environmental Science.
Basically, should I just stick with the more challenging major or make the switch?