Unless you know exactly what you want to do with your life and future career, choosing a college major may seem like one of the hardest decisions of your life. Don’t worry! You shouldn’t stress too much! College is a period of growth and discovery. If you don’t figure out your life in your first semester or even first year, you will find your way with time. Trust me- I changed majors after 2 years!
Think About Your Interests
If you are stuck and cannot choose a major, you should come up with a list of things that you love to do and enjoy. Do you love art, reading, building things, or making videos with your friends? What was your favorite subject in school? History, music, or math? My sister was unable to choose a college major her first year, so she combined her interests in art and creating things with her hands. She is now in her second semester of her second year as an architecture major! Sometimes you can combine your interests to find the perfect major for you. My best friend loves reading literature, but she loves helping people. She plans on graduating with a degree in English and heading to PA (Physician’s Assistant) school. You never know where the major will take you!
Explore Your Options
Professors and recruiters are always so excited to have you visit their school and offices! Are you interested in studying Biology? Check out the Biology department’s tadpole experiments in the lab! Do you dream of opening up your own business one day? Visit your school’s Business School and ask if they have an Entrepreneurship program! Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and ask questions.
Talk to Alumni
Sometimes you will discover that talking to people that you admire or aspire to be will bring you so much inspiration! Most schools have an alumni association with alumni ready to answer your questions. Reach out to them! You may be pleasantly surprised with what you discover.
Look at Potential Careers
Your university probably has several resources for the potential careers of each major. You might just be surprised at the types of jobs that each major can lead to! An International Business degree can lead to a diplomat position in a foreign country, a Hospitality degree can lead to an event planner for a popular hotel downtown, and a Biology degree can lead to a job saving endangered species in the Amazon!
Conclusion
Overall, just remember: college is about experiencing and learning all you can and taking advantage of every opportunity (within reason) that you can! Don’t stress too much if you can’t decide on a major on the first day. With a little exploring and patience, you will be well on your way to finding your perfect major.