<p>Hello College Confidential,</p>
<p>Since this is my first time here, I will elaborate my predicament in some detail. I am currently facing an academic, or in the big picture, a life dilemma. Ever since the first day I set foot in Kindergarten, I have aspired to become a doctor. Having a family history of doctor-hood, it would seem likely so.To serve mankind to my utmost potential and be the best I can be. Being born into an Asian family, I was constantly pressured by my parents to pursue the medical path, which brings us to the predicament at hand. I am currently a 3rd year Biological Sciences student at my university. Although I had initially intended to embark on the pre-med endeavor, I was unable to expect what was to come. So far, I detest it. As the years passed my GPA continued to diminish, up to the point where I needed severe help in order to raise it to a standard level. My interest in Medicine continued to decline as well since I constantly fret about the length and the amount of work and dedication it takes in order to become a Medical Practitioner a.k.a Doctor. Coupled with anxiety and severe depression stemming from the lack of support, dwindling grades, parental pressure, and not the slightest idea of what to do with my life, I have created a disastrous equation for myself in terms of my life and academic career.</p>
<p>So here's where I am currently at. I have developed a sudden interest in computing over the last few weeks, and although I don't know if this is perpetual or not, I am willing to test it out. As such, my parents have told me to do whatever I want in terms of furthering myself. Therefore, I am currently thinking of transferring into Computer Science but I am unsure of what to expect. I am afraid of committing myself to this major and falling victim to yet another bad life decision. I'm also afraid of starting from scratch and experiencing the dejecting thought of seeing my friends graduate before I do, even though I love them and I wish them the best in their lives. I guess you could just say I have lost all motivation and at this point all I want is a relatively useful degree that can support me financially.</p>
<p>I have no prior experience with computer programming, computer hardware, etc. I have no strong subject(s) since basically I have blindly studied whatever was thrown at me from square one. My weak subjects include Physics, Chemistry, and anything that has a lot of reading in it (Philosophy, English, etc.). I just dislike reading and writing for the sake of grades. I am a relatively astute student capable of learning new things and applying myself wherever and however necessary. However, I do not identify or derive pleasure from referring to myself as a "genius".</p>
<p>So ultimately, my question(s) is/are: What constitutes Computer Science? Is it a good degree in terms of job security, job satisfaction, etc. What type of subjects is it comprised of? Is it very difficult as compared to other majors? How effective is the degree in the long run? What can I expect to see if I transfer into it? What's the difference between Computer Science, Computer Engineering, and Software Development? Should I transfer into it? Would I be making the right decision? Are there any alternative majors that support my thoughts/outlook?</p>
<p>I'm sorry about the insanely verbose topic but anyone hoping to answer it sincerely would be assisting me immensely. Thank you for reading.</p>