Tips for Choosing a College Major

The major you choose is honestly one of the most important decisions you’ll make in college. It has a huge impact on your career choice in the future and your happiness during school. Don’t freak if you don’t know what you want to do yet! You’re not alone, trust me. Your first year is the perfect time to explore different interests. Although the goal is to graduate in four years, don’t stress if you decide to pursue another major. You have to think long term what will make you happiest. Choosing the right major may seem daunting, but following these steps is a great place to start.

Choose something that interests you the most. Even if they contradict, write out everything that you love and could see yourself doing. What are your strengths? Discover a way to implement those strengths into a career choice. Reflect on past jobs, people who inspire you, a subject you have loved studying to decide what you’re most passionate about.

Dig deeper into your passions. Do you have a heart for serving others? Do you want to work one on one or in a group? Are you a problem solver? If you’re doing something you love, it won’t feel like work at all. That is the ultimate goal for whatever major you decide to choose. You’ll be taking classes and putting so much time and effort into this major, so choose wisely. You don’t want to spend all your years of college dreading classes or studying.

Test out different majors by taking introductory classes. This is a great way to test the waters and discover which major is the perfect fit. Your freshman year is a great time to do this. If multiple majors interest you, think about double majoring or minoring. This a great alternative and allows you to have the best of both worlds.

Gain hands-on experience. In my option, this is the best way to discover if a major is the right choice for you. Internships, volunteering and shadowing aid in giving you a deeper understanding of what day to day life in the profession is like. Talk to other students in your major of interest. They understand the work It takes and can offer you beneficial advice. It’s also worth it to speak with any professionals you may know. They’ve been through all the schooling and are now in the profession and can additionally offer worthwhile advice. Using your resources can help in the decision-making process.

Finally, and most importantly, follow your heart. Don’t let outside influences persuade you in a way that doesn’t align with your heart’s desires. Only you know what will bring you the ultimate happiness. Although advice from others is beneficial, you know what’s best for you. Forget about the salary and choose something that you could see yourself happy doing.

Choosing a major is a big decision, but you know yourself and your passions better than anyone Remember, your major isn’t a forever decision. You’re allowed to change your mind and do what’s best for you. The most important thing is to ensure your happiness in the future for whatever career choice you decide to pick.