Don’t Know What to Study in College? Sujan Lama Says That’s Okay.
Let’s be honest—most of us go to college with no clue what we actually want to study. And that’s completely normal.
At 18, we’re expected to choose a major that will somehow determine the rest of our lives. Some of us follow what sounds “practical”—engineering, accounting, biology. Some follow our parents’ wishes. Others just pick something random to get started. But here’s the truth:
not knowing what to study is not a flaw—it’s an opportunity.
🧬 Sujan Lama’s Journey: From Military Dreams to Biotech
Sujan Lama, who now has over 10 years of experience in the biotech industry, didn’t always have a straight path. Initially, he wanted to join the military, but when that door closed, college became the next step. He chose biology right from the start—but even that came with questions.
“At one point, I considered the pre-med track, maybe going to med school. But eventually, I realized that wasn’t what I wanted. I decided to just stick with biology.”
He emphasized that not everyone figures it out early—and that’s completely okay.
🏡 The Pressure in South Asian Households
In many Nepali and South Asian families, there’s pressure to pursue majors that are seen as “safe” or “respectable.” Arts? English? History? Those are often seen as a waste of time. But what if you’re miserable following someone else’s dream?
“Our parents often choose what we should study. But at the end of the day, you’re the one who has to live that life. If you’re not happy with what you’re studying, it’s not worth it.”
Sujan pointed out that choosing a path just to please your parents might set you up for long-term regret. You could end up average in a field you don’t even care about. Or worse—burned out and switching majors over and over, wasting time and money.
✨ It’s Okay to Be Undecided
Sujan was very clear: there is nothing wrong with being undecided in college. In fact, he encourages it.
“Knowing what you don’t want to do is just as important as knowing what you do want to do.”
College is the best time to explore. You can try different classes, internships, or co-ops. Sujan mentors interns from Northeastern University and tells them the same thing: use this time to discover—not just to learn.
“You’re not just here to learn technical skills. You’re trying to figure out if you enjoy doing what you're doing.”
🎯 Do What You Love—And Go All In
One of the most powerful points Sujan made was this:
“If you do something your parents forced you to do, you’ll probably just be average. But if you do something you love—whether it’s biology, music, or art—you could be one of the best.”
That’s the difference. If you follow your passion, you’re more likely to go all in. And that’s where excellence comes from.
🔑 Key Takeaways from Sujan Lama
It’s okay to enter college undecided.
It’s okay to switch majors (even more than once).
Explore. Experiment. Don’t rush the decision.
Know what you don’t like—that’s valuable too.
Don’t settle for being average in something you hate.
Chase what excites you—and be the best at it.
“Life is the longest thing you’ll ever do. You might as well enjoy it.”