Dear Auntie,

I am in a state of despair and it feels as if my life is falling apart. Recently, I was undergoing training in the armed forces, but I left because I did not see my future in it.

However, my parents and brothers did not agree with my decision to resign. They are no longer supporting me in my education. I am facing financial problems and want to continue my post-graduation studies at the university. Currently, I am preparing for an interview, but this situation is causing me a great deal of stress. How can I deal with this situation and get back on the right track?

Please reply as soon as possible. I will be very grateful to you in this regard.

‘My Family Has Rejected My Career Change’

My Family Doesn’t Support My Decision

Dear Support Seeker,

You made a career decision that your family did not agree with and are now facing the consequences of that decision. While the situation is difficult, it does not mean your life is falling apart.

You left the armed forces because you did not see your future there. If you genuinely felt that it was not the right career for you, then you should not spend so much time regretting the decision because your family is unhappy with it. They are disappointed in you since they had certain expectations about your future. You need to give them some time to digest what has happened, instead of draining your energy by trying to win arguments with them.

For now, I suggest you focus on what you can actually do. Prepare thoroughly for your interview — by the way, it would be useful to know what the interview is for. If it is for a job, definitely work on preparing very well for it, because you will likely need a salary to fund your education.

Also, it is now time to find out exactly what financial help your university can offer. Ask about scholarships, financial aid, instalment plans for fees, becoming a teaching or research assistant and any other work you can find around the campus.

Furthermore, sit down and work out exactly how much money you need. Write down your university fees, transport, food and any other expenses. Then see how much you can earn and what the gap is.

Think honestly about what you will be studying for your master’s as well. What kind of work do you want to do after completing it? Which jobs could you apply for? You don’t need to have your entire career planned out, but you should know where you are headed.

Now is the time to ask people for help. Please don’t be ashamed. Depending on someone financially and asking a teacher or friend for advice or a useful contact are two different things. If someone who knows you well can help you find an opportunity, you should definitely accept that kind of help.

While it would be great if your family accepted your decision, the fact is that they may or may not come around. That is not in your control. The only thing you control is what you do next. You chose a career path and now need to think carefully about what you do next. I wish you the best of luck.

Disclaimer: If you or someone you know is in crisis and/or feeling suicidal, please go to your nearest emergency room and seek medical help immediately.
Auntie will not reply privately to any query.
Please send concise queries to:
auntieagni@gmail.com

Published in Dawn, EOS, October 4th, 2026