How to Choose a Major

If you ask college freshmen what the toughest decision they have had to make in their lives is, most of them would have the same answer – choosing a college major. And who can blame them? To make a decision that would chart the path for their future at such a young age is no easy task.

It’s no wonder a lot of students enter college with absolutely no idea what they expect this education to do for them. There are some individuals who are driven by a singular passion and have their career goals clear in their minds. For them, choosing a college major is like taking a walk in the park. But for others, the responsibility of making this decision is enough to trigger a minor panic attack.

If you’re in this situation, the first thing you need to do is relax and take heart from the fact that a lot of students are sailing in the same boat as you. Not that it would make the task of choosing a college major any easier, but at least you know you are not alone.

The next thing on your agenda should be to analyze your interest areas. Think about what you might like enough to do it for the rest of your life. It’s important to choose college degree programs that excite you; otherwise, getting through four years of education can become an uphill battle.

But it’s not interest alone that should guide your decision. You also have to measure your aptitude for a field. When choosing a college major, consider the subjects you did well at in school. For example, those who excelled at math will be ideal candidates for undergraduate degree programs in accounting, computer science, statistics, etc.

You must also consider your personality and inherent qualities before deciding on a college major. Those who are natural leaders will do extremely well as managers and should seriously explore business administration programs. Individuals who are compassionate and love to help others are well suited for healthcare careers.

Once you have figured out what you are good at, you should ask yourself what your immediate and long-term goals are. Are you choosing a college major to provide you an entry into the professional world or is it a stepping stone to further academic pursuits?

If it’s the former, then it’s advisable to pick college degree programs that train you for a specific profession such as nursing or accounting or those that prepare you for a range of careers such as philosophy or history. However, if your ultimate aim is to get into graduate school, then you should take courses that will provide a foundation to your future academic plans.

But before you enroll in any undergraduate degree program, it’s important to run it through a reality check. Assess the job prospects, earning potential, and advancement opportunities offered by your chosen field.

Whether your parents are paying for college or you intend to fund your own education, the expense will be nothing short of back breaking. It’s important to ensure the investment you’ve made for a bright and successful future has the potential to yield good returns!