<p>I'm in my second year of college and I went in my first year thinking I was going to be a civil engineering major. The science and math is difficult, of course, but doable. However, I have no love for it. Instead I would much rather study history. Should I be practical or do what I love?</p>
<p>Declare, depends on your goals. You’ll get a well-paying job more easily with practical. You can always do what you love. Civil engineer by day. History lover on nights and weekends.</p>
<p>Think about the day to day reality of a civil engineer. Would you be happy in the environment doing the tasks? These can be quite different (for better and for worse) than what it’s like to study the subject. Think of all the doctors who love their jobs but had to get through med school first. </p>
<p>If your dislike is affecting your grades or you have an alternative career in mind where a history major is a must (eg history teacher) then change asap. </p>
<p>If you’re just getting bogged down in the study and losing sight of why you first wanted to do engineering try and talk to a working CE. Discuss your concerns. I’d be surprised if you found that they loved every class. Also, you’re still at the building block stage of learning. Once you come to start pulling your knowledge together on decent projects, the hard work might seem more reasonable. </p>
<p>Also, indulge that interest in history. Is there a history society or achaeology club you could join? Get out and around town and find out about the local history. What’s the civil engineering history? Any cool bridges or large landscaping projects that were taken out in the past that have had an impact on the area? Read about history to clear your mind. It might even become a plus point to your engineering. You could become involved in restoration projects as a professional using your engineering skills to keep history alive.</p>