Summer may be around the corner and school will be out, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be thinking about college.
And at some point, in the process of choosing a college, you will also have to decide on a college major, or at the very least start weeding out options. While being undecided initially is OK and expected, you will probably want to have some idea of what you want to do when you start the college application process.
Why? Because you want to make sure you are opting for the correct college to attend since finding out later that your dream school doesn’t offer the major you want might turn out to be your worst nightmare. Sure, choosing your major can be tough, but better sooner than later.
It’s up to you
When it’s time to start making solid decisions about enrolling in college, it’s not unusual to have questions about how to go about picking a college major. Selecting a college major is of course up to you in the end as it centers around you addressing your goals, likes, dislikes, and skills, etc.
However, you not only need to look at your interests, abilities, and goals, but also what will make you happy in the future. For instance, it’s important to choose a college major that will ultimately lead to a career you want in a place you will want to settle down. Choosing a college major is about a lot more than opting for the highest paying profession, according to the website Scholarships.com.
Starting Out
When you begin deciding on your college major, it’s important to ask a lot of questions. Start by discussing options and ideas with your high school guidance counselor, or if you’re already a college student speak with an academic adviser or a career center counselor.
You can also inquire with friends and family members about how they chose their own college major or career. Lastly, ask yourself questions about what you want and where you see your future headed beyond college years.
Scholarships.com suggest considering these factors when choosing a college major:
- What kinds of career can you envision yourself?
- What type of work do you like?
- What are your interests?
- Which subjects did you like studying the most in high school?
- If you participate in a career assessment test in high school, what did the results report?
- Do you have any special skills?
- Do you have any hobbies that you would like to pursue as a career?
- Ask yourself what you liked and disliked about your past work experiences?
- What geographic areas do you want to head to and possible reside following graduation?
- The college major that you select impacts the types of jobs you will be qualified for upon graduation.
Additionally, did you know the USA Jobs , is the official job website of the United States Federal Government, and it publishes a guide to college majors that details hiring qualifications, by major, for different types of federal jobs? The site publishes popular jobs with an appropriate college major list beneath each type of job.
Don’t freak out
Choosing a college major is an important decision, and one that takes a lot of thought and personal reflection before making a final decision. It is important to remember, however, that declaring a major doesn’t mean it cannot be reversed. Some college students change majors one or more times after they enroll in college.
In the end, just be sure to set yourself some goals for when you are in college or just heading off to college. Be sure to do your research, stay focused and be honest with yourself. Choosing a college major is a key step in possibly putting you on the path to future success and happiness.
