Introduction to Aspirations

Many of us face the challenge of aligning our career aspirations with the expectations of our parents, especially when we pursue a less conventional path. If you consider becoming a college professor but your parents advocate for you to pursue a career as a doctor, how can you effectively communicate your goals and desires to them?

Understanding Your Options

Firstly, it's crucial to recognize that the decision whether to become a college professor or a doctor is chiefly yours. While your parents may influence your choices, ultimately, your career path should align with your dreams and interests. If you have the intelligence and self-discipline, the success in either career is dependent on your personal drive.

The Path to Becoming a College Professor

Becoming a college professor is a challenging journey with many obstacles. It typically requires a Ph.D., a competitive environment, and frequent relocation. Graduates often start as Instructors or Assistant Professors, with limited opportunities for advancement. Some professors might remain at Assistant or Associate Professor throughout their careers, while a few may achieve full Professorship.

Convincing Your Parents

To convince your parents that your goal is valid, emphasizes your personal goals and the importance of pursuing your passions. You don't need their permission; being an adult means making your own choices. However, it's reasonable to discuss your aspirations and plans with them, as their support can significantly impact your path.

The Declining Golden Age of College Professors

The golden age of college professorships is largely a thing of the past. This means that pursuing a professorship implies years of financial struggle and professional challenges. As someone who switched paths over 25 years ago, I understand the realities of this journey. Be prepared for a challenging and uncertain path, and perhaps reconsider if you can meet these conditions.

Alternative Pathways to Your Goal

1. **Medicine and Academia**: Consider attending medical school, completing a residency, and then applying for professor positions in universities or medical colleges. This option ensures dual roles as a professor and a doctor, which could be more palatable to your parents. 2. **Integrated MD/PhD Programs**: These programs allow you to combine medical education with a Ph.D. research track. The programs often cover tuition and provide financial support, making it a viable option if you’re passionate about both medicine and research. By the time you decide to focus on a professorship, you will have significant progress and less need for parental financial support. 3. **Sectors Apart from Medicine**: If your interest lies in fields such as history or the fine arts, choose a pre-med major in college and complement it with courses in your chosen field. This path might require additional degrees but can provide a fulfilling career choice. 4. **Taking Out Loans**: As a last resort, you could apply for loans, but this should be a carefully considered decision, especially considering the financial burden it can impose.

Conclusion

There is no straightforward path to becoming a college professor. Most people develop their research interests and then pursue advanced degrees. If you feel strongly about becoming a professor, discuss your plans with your parents, and be ready to face the challenges that come with this career choice.